Karen Cynthia “KC” Fox, a highly respected and Emmy-nominated set decorator, passed away on Aug. 28 at the age of 70 after battling pancreatic cancer at her home in Los Angeles. She was a founding member of the Set Decorators Society of America (SDSA) and left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
The SDSA confirmed Fox’s passing on their official website, honoring her as a talented and beloved individual known for her artistic eye, infectious laughter, and mentorship within the industry. Throughout her impressive 40-year career, Fox worked on a variety of film, TV, and commercial productions, leaving her mark on each project she touched.
One of her most notable works includes serving as the set decorator for over 130 episodes of the popular series “Criminal Minds” from 2013 to 2020. Additionally, Fox lent her creative talents to other well-known shows such as “Shameless,” “Doogie Kamealoha, M.D.,” “Jesse,” and “United States of Tara.”
Fox’s collaboration with production designer Jackson De Govia and art director John R. Jensen on the TV movie “Gypsy” in 1993 earned her an Emmy nomination. She continued her successful partnership with De Govia and Jensen on the hit action film “Speed” in 1994, starring Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock.
Her exceptional work on David Fincher’s thriller “The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo” in 2011 led to Fox winning two Art Directors Guild Awards. She was also recognized for her contributions to the series “Little Britain USA.”
Throughout her career, Fox’s portfolio expanded to include a wide range of projects such as “Multiplicity” (1996), “Volcano” (1997), “Doctor Dolittle” (1998), “Legally Blonde 2: Red, White and Blonde” (2003), “Cheaper by the Dozen” (2003), “The 40-Year-Old Virgin” (2005), “Forgetting Sarah Marshall” (2008), “He’s Just Not That Into You” (2009), “Valentine’s Day” (2010), and “Rock of Ages” (2012).
In addition to her work as a set decorator, Fox also served as a production designer on various TV movies including “Shattered Spirits” (1986), “Liberace” (1988), “Leap of Faith” (1988), and “Get Smart, Again!” (1989).
Born on Feb. 1, 1954, Fox was not only a founding member of the SDSA but also contributed her expertise to the organization’s executive committee. She was a member of IATSE Local 44, the Television Academy, and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, showcasing her commitment and dedication to the entertainment industry. Karen Cynthia “KC” Fox’s legacy will continue to inspire and influence future generations of set decorators and creatives in the field.
