• by Tanya Gazdik , Yesterday

David Weitzner, a prolific Hollywood marketing executive, has died at the age of 86.

Weitzner oversaw campaigns for acclaimed films including “Star Wars,” “E.T.: The Extraterrestrial,” “Fast Times at Ridgemont High,” “Alien” and “This Is Spinal Tap.”

He consulted “on marketing and strategy for corporate and entertainment clients including Honda Motors, PepsiCo, Philips Electronics North America, the AFI and the Children's Television Workshop,” according to The Hollywood Reporter. 

Weitzner died Sept. 1 at his home in Calabasas, it was announced by the USC School of Cinematic Arts, where he spent decades teaching a Business of Entertainment class as an adjunct professor. A spokesperson indicated he was surrounded by family at the time of his passing.

“Born and raised in New York City, Weitzner began his entertainment marketing career at Grey Advertising, where he became VP and general manager of the company’s entertainment division,” according to Variety. “During his tenure at Grey Advertising, Weitzner oversaw the ABC Pictures and Warner Brothers accounts. He was hired to lead worldwide marketing at ABC Pictures and Edgar Scherick’s Palomar Pictures International.”

Among his philanthropic activities, he advocated on behalf of the Landmark School for the Learning Disabled.

“Weitzner was recognized by President Bill Clinton for his efforts on behalf of the Red Cross, and he was a longtime member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and served as Chairman of the MPAA’s Advertising/Publicity Committee from 1979 to 1981,” according to Deadline.