Brooklyn, New York – James Foley, a versatile director renowned for his work on the “Fifty Shades of Grey” sequels and multiple influential films, has passed away at the age of 71 after a courageous battle with brain cancer. His family confirmed the news, sharing that he died earlier this week.
Foley was born on December 28, 1953, and made his directorial debut in 1984 with the romantic dramedy “Reckless,” which featured Aidan Quinn and Daryl Hannah. This marked the beginning of a prolific career that would see him explore various genres, including crime thrillers and dramas.
One of his earliest notable films, “At Close Range,” premiered at the Berlin Film Festival in 1986, garnering critical acclaim and a nomination for the Golden Bear prize. The film also included Madonna’s hit single “Live to Tell,” showcasing his close collaboration with the pop icon, for whom he directed multiple music videos, including “Papa Don’t Preach” and “True Blue.”
Foley’s creative reach extended to television as well, including a memorable episode of David Lynch’s cult series “Twin Peaks.” In 1992, he helmed the feature film adaptation of David Mamet’s “Glengarry Glen Ross,” which boasted a star-studded cast featuring Al Pacino and Jack Lemmon. The film is celebrated for its sharp dialogue and incisive take on the world of real estate.
Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Foley continued to create films across various styles, contributing to works like “Fear,” “Confidence,” and “The Chamber,” based on John Grisham’s novel. However, his most commercially successful endeavors came with the “Fifty Shades” series; “Fifty Shades Darker” and “Fifty Shades Freed” collectively earned more than $700 million worldwide, solidifying his place in modern cinema.
In addition to his film work, Foley played a significant role in television, directing episodes of critically acclaimed series such as “Billions,” “Hannibal,” and “Wayward Pines.” His contributions to Netflix’s “House of Cards” during its initial three seasons highlighted his versatility across platforms.
Foley is survived by his brother Kevin, sisters Eileen and Jo Ann, along with his nephew Quinn and their families. His legacy is marked by a diverse body of work that has resonated with audiences and influenced the landscape of both film and television. His impact in the industry will be remembered for years to come.