Ron Leach, a renowned and award-winning casting director, producer, and actor in the Canadian entertainment industry, passed away on March 7, 2023, at the age of 74. His death has shocked and saddened many people who knew him and worked with him. He was a beloved figure in the whole industry, and his contributions to the success of countless productions cannot be overstated. In this article, we will explore the cause of his death, his life and career, and the tributes that have poured in for him.
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What was the cause of Ron Leach’s death?
According to Playback Online, Leach died suddenly at Toronto General Hospital after a brief illness. His close family friend Mark Johnston, founder and president of Eelay Media, told the website that Leach had been feeling unwell for a few days before he was admitted to the hospital. He said that Leach had a fever and a cough, but he did not think it was anything serious. He said that Leach was still working on some projects and was looking forward to attending the Canadian Screen Awards later that month.
However, Leach’s condition worsened and he was diagnosed with pneumonia. He was put on a ventilator and sedated, but he did not respond to the treatment. He passed away peacefully with his family by his side. Johnston said that Leach’s death was unexpected and devastating for everyone who knew him.
Who was Ron Leach?
Ron Leach was born in Vancouver, British Columbia, in 1949. He began his career in the entertainment industry as an actor, appearing in a number of Canadian TV shows and films in the 1970s and 1980s. However, it was his work behind the scenes as a casting director that earned him the most acclaim.
Over the course of his career, Leach worked on a wide variety of projects, from independent films to big-budget Hollywood productions. Some of his most notable credits include the TV series “Cold Squad” and the films “The Sweet Hereafter” and “Exotica.” His most popular casting for movies include Hiroshima and Jo Torre: Curveballs Along the Way.
Leach was also a prolific producer and director of short films. He won several awards for his work, such as Altercations, Shaky Grounds, and Hotline. He was also a respected judge and mentor in various film festivals and competitions. He served as the chairman of the board of directors for the Talent Representatives Association of Canada.
Leach was known for his ability to spot talented actors and bring out the best in them. He had a keen eye for diversity and inclusion, and he championed many emerging talents from different backgrounds and communities. He was also a generous and kind person who cared deeply about his family, friends, colleagues, and clients.
How did people react to Ron Leach’s death?
Ron Leach’s death has sparked an outpouring of grief and admiration from many people who knew him or worked with him. Many actors, directors, producers, writers, agents, and others have shared their memories and condolences on social media platforms.
Michael Chan, a politician in Canada, wrote on Twitter: “I am deeply saddened by the passing of Ron Leach. He was a legend in the Canadian film industry and a dear friend. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.”
Youssef Abdel Malek, a filmmaker who worked with Leach on several projects, wrote on Facebook: “Ron Leach was more than just a casting director to me. He was a mentor, a teacher, a friend, and a father figure. He taught me so much about filmmaking, acting, storytelling, and life. He always believed in me and supported me in everything I did. He was one of the kindest and most generous people I have ever met. I am heartbroken by his loss.”
Sarah Gadon, an actress who starred in one of Leach’s short films, wrote on Instagram: “Ron Leach was one of the first people who gave me a chance as an actor. He cast me in his short film Altercations when I was 15 years old. He was so passionate about his work and so supportive of his actors. He had such a positive impact on my career and my life. I am forever grateful to him.”
Many other celebrities and industry professionals have also expressed their sorrow and gratitude for Leach’s work and legacy. Some of them include Atom Egoyan, Don McKellar, Bruce Greenwood, Sandra Oh, Colm Feore, Sarah Polley, David Cronenberg, among others.
Ron Leach’s funeral service will be held on March 15 at St. James Cathedral in Toronto. His family has requested that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Actors’ Fund of Canada or the Canadian Film Centre.
