Paul Pope on the set of Hudson and Rex in June 2021.
Messages of shock and grief are being shared globally over the death of film and TV producer Paul Pope.
Pope’s family says he died peacefully, surrounded by them, Thursday morning.
Prime Minister Andrew Furey called Pope a pioneering filmmaker who showcased the province on screens and attracted visitors who would then see it in person.
I’m completely crushed on news about #PaulPopeis suddenly over.
Paul was a pioneer, a driving force in our film and television industry. With passion and energy, his work was inspiring and his legacy will live on.
My deepest condolences to Lisa and their family during this tragic time. pic.twitter.com/lRk2SNZ2TY
– Andrew Furey (@FureyAndrew) April 14, 2022
Roger Maunder, founder of the Nickel Film Festival and Upskydown Films, says Pope spoke and walked the tour.
A shocked Maunder called Pope a visionary who saw the potential of the industry here and acted on it, adding that he “breathed and lived” movies and television.
Pope was behind the newly announced film and media production center at the College of the North Atlantic.
He was also a member of the Come Home 2022 Host Committee, which produced many of the events planned over the next many months.
Pope helped reveal the province to the rest of the world through films such as Rare Birds and Extraordinary Visitor, the wildly popular Hudson and Rex TV series as well as the multi-award winning documentary My Left Breast.
We have some sad news – Paul Pope, a dear friend, colleague and Executive Producer at Hudson & Rex, has passed away. He was a partner in seven Shaftesbury projects, a beloved figure in the industry and a force in Newfoundland. His family and friends are in our thoughts. pic.twitter.com/HAXNATvDn0
– Hudson & Rex on Citytv (@hudsonandrex) April 14, 2022
Paul Pope’s Secret Nation was my first job as a film extras. His anchor zone was my first starring role in film. Many people got their 1st job in film & TV from Paul. Then their 2nd, 3rd and even 100th. Because of his work with CNA, many more will now learn the craft. RIP Paul Pope.
– Mark Critch (@markcritch) April 14, 2022