Marvin Worth, a prolific writer and producer whose work spanned five decades and included such films as Malcolm X and Lenny, has died of complications from lung cancer. He was 72.
Worth's death was announced on Thursday by his public relations firm.
His film productions of Lenny in 1974 and The Rose in 1979 each earned Academy Award nominations for best picture. His acclaimed 1972 documentary Malcolm X, chronicling the life and assassination of the black nationalist leader, was also nominated for an Oscar.
Worth's producing credits included Spike Lee's 1992 feature film version, starring Denzel Washington.
Born in Brooklyn, Worth entered showbusiness as a booker and manager, handling acts such as Charlie Parker and Billie Holiday. A young comedian named Lenny Bruce signed with Worth, who launched his career.
He also wrote for television during the 1950s and 1960s, earning an Emmy and a Peabody for his work on The Steve Allen Show.
His latter movie credits included the 1996 remake of Diabolique with Sharon Stone and Isabelle Adjani, and this year's Home Box Office docudrama on the life, death and heroin addiction of fashion model Gia.
Worth is survived by his wife, Joan, one son, and two daughters
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