Rex Reed, longtime film critic, dies at 87
AP News • • entertainment
Key Points:
- Rex Reed, a renowned film critic and journalist known for his long tenure at The New York Observer, died at age 87 after a short illness at his Manhattan home.
- Over a career spanning more than six decades, Reed was a prominent cultural critic, authoring eight books, acting in films, and often sparking controversy with his outspoken opinions.
- He gained notoriety for controversial remarks, including questioning Marlee Matlin’s Oscar win and making critical comments about Melissa McCarthy, as well as promoting a false conspiracy about Marisa Tomei’s Oscar.
- Reed began his career in film publicity and journalism in the 1960s, becoming a familiar media figure with work appearing in major magazines and frequent television appearances.
- Despite his reputation as a curmudgeon, Reed expressed a desire to be remembered for his efforts to elevate film criticism and respect quality cinema.