Robert E. McGinnis, one of the greatest illustrators of the 20th century whose work includes some of the most famous movie posters of all time, has sadly died
A film icon has sadly passed away.
Legendary James Bond poster creator Robert E. McGinnis has died aged 99. The sad news of his passing on March 10 in Old Greenwich, Connecticut, has only just emerged with confirmation appearing on Legacy.com.
McGinnis was famed for his sixties pin-up style, depicting bikini-clad bombshells alongside dashing gents, and his work played a vital role in defining the early Bond films. His creative genius created the posters of Thunderball, You Only Live Twice, On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, Diamonds Are Forever, Live and Let Die among others.
His illustrations often showed Bond surrounded by scantily-clad women, solidifying Bond’s image as a ladies’ man. Before he was linked to the James Bond franchise, McGinnis made the poster for the classic Audrey Hepburn film Breakfast at Tiffany’s.
The iconic promo captured Hepburn elegantly smoking with a cigarette holder with a cat draped around her neck. Reflecting on his work with the actress, he once said: “You didn’t have to do much with her. She’s so perfect,” reports the Express.
Later in life, Robert also worked on the poster for Disney’s The Incredibles. Fans were left heartbroken by the news and took to social media to express their sorrow.
“One of the main reasons Bond has not only survived, but thrived through out many incarnations is the absolutely genius marketing around every film, that super recognisable aesthetic. See also the soundtrack and specifically the opening theme songs,” wrote one fan.
“What a life, what a career, what an influence in pop culture. Rest in eternal peace and movie magic, absolute legend,” someone posted on Reddit.
“Damn. RIP Robert E. McGinnis One of the best to do it and an immeasurable influence on my own career; I always strive and will continue to be as good as McGinnis. His legacy in pop culture is beyond measure; even if you don’t know his name, you know his work,” another shared on X/Twitter.
“Robert E. McGinnis, one of my idols of poster art, had passed away earlier this month. He was most famous for his James Bond 007 posters. I guess it takes longer to see the obituary when one is not as famous as the stars one paints,” a third expressed their sadness.
Robert leaves behind his wife of 75 years, Ferne, and four of his five siblings as well as his children and grandchildren.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
