Hollywood Mourns the Loss of Rising Star Kevin Turen
The entertainment industry is filled with grief as news spreads of the untimely passing of rising star Kevin Turen. Known for his remarkable work in Hollywood, Turen’s loss is deeply felt by his friends, family, and colleagues, who remember him not only for his professional accomplishments but also for his unwavering dedication to his loved ones.
Jay Penske, CEO of Variety’s parent company Penske Media Corporation, was a close friend of Turen’s and expressed his sorrow in a heartfelt statement. Penske emphasized that, despite Turen’s achievements in Hollywood, his true passion lay in his family and friends. Turen took immense pride in his children and together with his wife, Evelina, was committed to raising them with strong values and a desire to make a positive impact in the world. The entertainment community mourns the loss of Turen, recognizing that a bright rising star has been extinguished.
Turen’s partnership with Sam Levinson and Ashley Levinson, co-founders of Little Lamb Productions, was highly regarded in the industry. Their collaboration produced notable projects, including the critically acclaimed HBO series Euphoria. This gripping drama, centered around a teenager’s struggles with drug addiction, captivated audiences with its gritty storyline and stylized aesthetics. Turen also contributed to the production of The Idol, another compelling HBO series by Sam Levinson, which explores the complex relationship between a pop star and a cult leader. One of Turen’s most notable film credits includes Levinson’s Assassination Nation.
Beyond his work with Levinson, Turen worked closely with indie director Ti West, producing several films that garnered attention and acclaim. Notably, Turen collaborated on the recent slasher film trilogy composed of X, its prequel Pearl, and the upcoming sequel MaXXXine. These films showcased the talent of Mia Goth, who portrayed both Maxine and Pearl.
Turen’s diverse portfolio also comprised of projects such as the A24 drama Waves, the Netflix drama Pieces of a Woman, and the meta-comedy The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent, starring Nicolas Cage and Pedro Pascal. Additionally, Turen contributed to the production of significant films like The Birth of a Nation, 99 Homes, and the dramatic masterpiece All Is Lost, featuring the incomparable Robert Redford.
Born on August 16, 1979, in New York City, Turen pursued his passion for cinema by studying English and Critical Film Studies at Columbia University. He began his career as a creative executive at First Look Studios, where he steadily climbed the ranks and ultimately became the company’s president of production. During his tenure there, Turen acquired and distributed notable films such as The Proposition, The Dead Girl, and An American Crime. Later, he went on to work at Infinity Media and Treehouse Pictures before taking on the role of president of production at Phantom Four. Subsequently, Turen co-founded Little Lamb Productions, solidifying his position as a creative force in the industry.
The abrupt loss of Kevin Turen leaves a void in Hollywood, but his indelible contributions will continue to inspire and resonate within the entertainment community. As the industry mourns, Turen’s legacy as a rising star will forever be remembered, cherished, and celebrated.
