Wes Craven, the legendary film director known for his work in the horror genre, has passed away today. He was 76 years old. Craven's prolific resume includes both The Nightmare on Elm Street and Scream franchises, two of the most revered and successful in Hollywood history.
His family released an official statement citing brain cancer as the cause of death. It reads:
"It is with deep sadness we inform you that Wes Craven passed away at 1PM on Sunday, August 30 after battling brain cancer. He was 76 years old. Craven was surrounded by love, in the presence of his family at his Los Angeles home."
The statement says that Craven is survived by his wife Disney Studios VP Iya Labunka, as well as his sister, 2 children, 1 step child, and 3 grandchildren.
Aside from his contributions to the world of film, the family's statement also mentions Craven's long time advocacy for birds saying:
Craven was also a nature lover and committed bird conservationist, serving as a long-time member of the Audubon California Board of Directors.
In 1984, Craven changed the face of horror when he released the first Nightmare on Elm Street film. Freddy Krueger, the film's terrifying antagonist, remains one of modern horror's most iconic characters.
In the 1990's he would go on to create Scream together with writer Kevin Williamson. The first three films in the series are also the three highest grossing slasher films in US box office history according to boxofficemojo. Together with the 4th instalment, the entire franchise has earned over $600 million in global box office receipts.
Actress Rose McGowan, one of the stars of the franchise, tweeted this tribute to the director:
"Thank you for being the kindest man, the gentlest man, and one of the smartest men I've known. Please say there's a plot twist."