Los Angeles, California — The special effects makeup community is mourning the loss of Greg Cannom, a pioneering artist who revolutionized the field and passed away at the age of 74. Known for his transformative work in the horror genre and beyond, Cannom leaves behind a legacy that has forever marked the film industry.
Cannom began his illustrious career in the late 1970s, contributing his talents to projects like “It Lives Again” and “The Fury.” He quickly became a sought-after name in Hollywood, with pivotal roles in the creation of memorable makeup effects for iconic films such as “The Lost Boys,” “Alien 3,” and “Hannibal.” Most recently, he collaborated as a co-designer on the prosthetics for “The Eyes of Tammy Faye,” featuring Jessica Chastain.
Over four decades, Cannom’s mastery earned him numerous accolades, including four Academy Awards for Best Makeup. His wins came for “Bram Stoker’s Dracula,” “Mrs. Doubtfire,” and “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” along with an additional Oscar for Best Makeup and Hairstyling for “Vice.” He also received a Technical Achievement Award from the Academy in 2005, further solidifying his prowess in the field.
Beyond the Oscars, Cannom’s contributions were recognized with two Saturn Awards for his work on “The Lost Boys” and “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” as well as three awards from the Make-Up and Hair Stylists Guild, underscoring his influence on the art of makeup.
Two years ago, reports emerged of Cannom facing significant health challenges, leading to a GoFundMe campaign that successfully raised over $100,000 to support his medical expenses. The fundraiser highlighted the gratitude and respect his peers held for him, surpassing its original target of $75,000.
Friends, family, and fans of Cannom now reflect on his remarkable journey and the indelible impact he made on the film industry. His creations not only transformed actors into their characters but also set a new standard for visual storytelling in cinema. As the community grieves his passing, his artistic legacy continues to inspire future generations of makeup artists and filmmakers alike.