As with 2015, 2016 is seeing the loss of many horror talents that changed the shape of the genre in its earlier years. Today it was confirmed by a close family friend that English director, producer and author Robin Hardy passed away on Friday, July 1st, at the age of 86.
Hardy was most known for his 1973 suspense horror-thriller The Wicker Man, which starred Christopher Lee and has since become an iconic cult classic. Hardy appeared in the movie as a minister and a cameo role, too. A sequel, loosely based off the novel Cowboys for Christ, was eventually released as The Wicker Tree in 2011 with Robin serving as writer and director.
He was also the writer and director of 1986’s horror-thriller The Fantasist.
His line of work wasn’t always limited to horror features; in fact, he found more work creating commercials, education films and historical attractions. He founded two production companies – Hardy, Shaffer & Associates and Hardy & Sons – and he even was a published author as seen with 1981’s Education of Don Juan and the novel adaption of The Wicker Man.
All of us here at HorrorSociety.com send our condolensces to his family, friends and fans.
R.I.P. Robin Hardy
October 2, 1929 – July 1, 2016
