Marvin Levy, a longtime advisor and publicist to Steven Spielberg, has died at the age of 96.

The publicist, who worked on the marketing campaigns of a number of legendary films, pᴀssed away on April 7 in Los Angeles.

Steven issued a statement after Marvin’s death, saying: ‘Marvin’s pᴀssing is a huge loss for me and our industry writ large. There are many talented PR executives, but Marvin was one of a kind. 

‘For over 50 years, he was a deeply loyal and exceptional collaborator who was respected and appreciated by all those who were lucky enough to learn from his counsel.’

Steven noted he had worked with Marvin since the earliest days of his career with the release of his short film Amblin in 1968.  

He said: ‘When it came to handling the press, he had no peer. To the media and the world of exhibition, Marvin was the face of Amblin.

Marvin Levy (right), a longtime advisor and publicist to Steven Spielberg (left), has died at the age of 96

The publicist, who worked on the marketing campaigns of a number of legendary films, including E.T., pᴀssed away on April 7 in Los Angeles

‘We were opposite ends of the movie-making process. Every time I reached the end of production on a film, Marvin’s work had only begun. 

‘Through countless films, TV series, Amblin events, awards campaigns and our public relations strategy—this is where Marvin came alive. 

‘He loved his work and was endlessly enthusiastic about our business. He was creative, innovative and respected for his knowledge and honesty. 

‘He was excited to figure out new and better ways to present films to audiences. As a result, he was the first and only publicist to receive an Academy Award.’

In addition to his work with Steven, Marvin helped to promote well known films including  

Back to the Future, Sophie’s Choice, Taxi Driver, Men In Black, Who Framed Roger Rabbit, Gigi, Ben-Hur, Kramer vs. Kramer, Deep Impact, Shrek and Gladiator. 

Marvin, who was from New York, began his career in advertising and eventually worked his way up in the marketing department of Columbia Pictures. 

Steven issued a statement after Marvin’s death, saying: ‘Marvin’s pᴀssing is a huge loss for me and our industry writ large’

Marvin also worked with Steven on the classic 1993 film Jurᴀssic Park 

He got along so well with Steven Spielberg that the director relied on him for advice throughout his career. 

When Steven founded DreamWorks in 1994, Marvin moved there.

In 2018, aged 90, he became the first publicist to receive an Honorary Academy Award for: ‘an exemplary career in publicity that has brought films to the minds, hearts and souls of audiences all over the world.’