Ridley Scott’s Scott Free Films has revealed that the managing director of its London office, producer Julie Payne, died of cancer last month at the age of 64.
Payne managed Scott Free’s London operations for more than 15 years, producing and executive producing projects for the company including Emmy- and Golden Globe-winner “The Gathering Storm” and follow-up “Into the Storm.” Payne also executive produced Scott’s own France-set comedy “A Good Year,” and produced Jordan Scott’s debut feature film “Cracks.”
Payne’s collaboration with Scott dated back to the late-80s, when she worked across some of his most notable movies in various roles starting with “Thelma & Louise” in 1991 through to “G.I. Jane” and “Gladiator.”
Payne originally started her career at the BBC in the early ‘70s, working first in their costume department and then in costume allocation. She subsequently joined producer Sandy Lieberson, who ultimately introduced her to Scott.
As managing director of Scott Free’s London office, Payne oversaw all of the company’s activities in film and television as well as Scott’s business interests across his other operations.
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“Julie Payne will be greatly missed by the entire Scott family as well as the whole of Scott Free and RSA Films, and everyone who came to experience her professional integrity and dedication over the years,” Scott Free said in a statement.
Payne died on June 15, but it is understood that the family wanted privacy until they felt it appropriate to make a public announcement. She is survived by her daughter Sarah and brother Mike with his family.
