Bruce Paltrow - Biography

Bruce Weigert Paltrow (November 26, 1943 – October 3, 2002) was an American television and film director and producer. He was the husband of actress Blythe Danner, and was the father of actress Gwyneth Paltrow and director Jake Paltrow.

Life and career

Paltrow was born in Brooklyn, New York, the son of Dorothy (née Weigert) and Arnold Paltrow. Paltrow was a first cousin of Spencer J. Giffords, father of American politician and member of the United States House of Representatives Gabrielle Giffords. He studied at Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana. In the late 1960s, he began directing stage productions in New York City, where he met actress Blythe Danner, whom he was married to from December 14, 1969 until his death.

He was the producer of the television series The White Shadow and St. Elsewhere. His last production was the film Duets, which starred his daughter, Gwyneth Paltrow.

Politically, he was a Democrat. He turned down Dwight Schultz from casting consideration from St. Elsewhere due to his support of Ronald Reagan, telling him "There's not going to be a Reagan asshole on this show!" when he showed up for audition.

Death

Paltrow died on October 3, 2002, while vacationing in Rome, Italy, to celebrate his daughter's 30th birthday. He was 58 years old. Paltrow had suffered from oral cancer for several years; his death was due to complications from cancer and pneumonia. In 2007, his widow, in cooperation with The Oral Cancer Foundation, set up a fund in his name to address oral cancer issues in the US. The foundation works primarily in the areas of public awareness, early detection, patient support functions and research.

Coldplay singer Chris Martin married Paltrow's daughter in 2003. The 2005 Coldplay album X&Y carried a dedication to Bruce Paltrow.

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