Legendary Movie Poster Artist Drew Struzan Dies at 78

Posted on October 14, 2025 by Neil Cole

Legendary poster artist Drew Struzan has passed away at the age of 78, leaving behind a legacy that helped define the visual language of Hollywood for decades. Struzan, renowned for his hand-painted movie posters, created some of the most iconic imagery in film history, including artwork for "Star Wars", "Indiana Jones", "Back to the Future", "E.T.", "Blade Runner", and "The Shawshank Redemption". Even after briefly coming out of retirement in 2015 to produce a special poster for The Force Awakens, his work continued to resonate with generations of fans and artists alike.

Among Struzan's early and most admired works is a striking portrait of Christopher Reeve as Superman, painted in 1978. Commissioned during the lead-up to "Superman: The Movie", the piece was created for promotional purposes and advance marketing rather than as the official theatrical poster, which featured the now-iconic "S" shield streaking through the clouds. Struzan's portrait captured not only Reeve's likeness but also the sincerity, hope, and heroism at the heart of the Superman character. Over the years, the painting became a cherished piece of cinematic art, reproduced in retrospectives, galleries, and art books, and remains a personal favorite of Struzan, who admired Reeve's embodiment of the character and the timeless ideals Superman represents.

Although no official cause of death has been announced, Struzan had publicly contended with Alzheimer's disease. Tributes from filmmakers, fans, and institutions have poured in since the news broke, highlighting the profound impact of his work on both pop culture and the art of film promotion. With more than 150 film posters to his name, Struzan's painterly approach, emotional resonance, and dedication to storytelling through imagery have left an indelible mark on cinema. The 1978 Superman painting stands as a vivid reminder of his talent and the lasting influence he will continue to have on generations of artists and movie lovers around the world.