Bruce Gowers, Emmy- and Grammy-winning British director who directed over nine seasons American idol and countless TV shows and specials, as well as music videos, including QueenThe immortal “Bohemian Rhapsody” promotional video died Sunday (15th) in Santa Monica at the age of 82. The cause of death was complications from acute respiratory infection.
In a statement, Gowers’ family said he “always brought boundless enthusiasm, energy, passion and joy to his work. He loved and was loved by the crew he worked with and was honored as a colleague. Known for his generosity, he continually encourages and promotes the talented individuals on his team.
“Funny, irreverent and very candid, he will be remembered in countless legends that will keep his charming spirit alive for many years to come. Always in the control room, on a ship in the Bahamas , and of course happiest at home with dogs, friends and family.”
Gowers directed 234 episodes American idol, from the first series in 2002 to the tenth series in 2011, and won an Emmy Award for Best Musical Direction in 2009 for the show.His Grammy Award was awarded in 1986 for directing Huey Lewis’ music video and news for “Heart of Rock and Roll.” In 1994, he received a DGS Award for directing a CBS special genius night ray charles.
Gowers was at the forefront of the medium’s rise as a music video director, most famously when he helmed the queen clips This greatly contributed to the international popularity of the band. “It changed the way people perceive music,” he told daily mail 2018. “Everyone is making videos, and if their videos are good, bands see their sales and chart rankings go up.”
Born on December 21, 1940 in New Kilbride, Scotland, Gowers has also directed many more of the best-loved and most-viewed music videos in the history of the genre, such as prince“1999” and Michael Jackson“Rock With You”.he also took the helm rolling stones‘ “Fools Cry” clip, rod stewart“Hot Legs”, Bee Gees‘ “how Deep Is Your Love,” hurryVideo of Tom Sawyer and Limelight, 10cc“I’m Not in Love” and “I’m Every Woman” by Chaka Khan.His other works include the video super trapHow many, Mike Oldfield, Genesistoto, Styxtravel, John Cougar (Mellencamp), kissand REO Speedwagon.
A specialist in television specials, he oversees or pays homage to Michael Jackson, Brian Wilson, Britney Spears, Fleetwood Mac, Paul McCartneyand many others, also directed the telecast of Live8’s global fundraising event in 2005. His television credits include specials with Jerry Seinfeld, Eddie Murphy, Robin Williams, and Billy Crystal, as well as the 57th and 59th Emmy Awards, ACM, VH1, Billboard, and MTV Awards, among many others.
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