Sandy Pressler, who worked as Jack Nicholson's agent for more than 60 years, died Thursday in Santa Monica at the age of 87.
Presley founded the independent agency Presley-Kelly & Associates in 1983 with John Kelly.
He began his career as a secretary at William Morris in 1960. He then moved to ICM, leaving to found Bresler, Wolff, Cota & Livingston, later known as The Artists Agency.
Presley was known for his long-standing relationships with his clients, setting the standard for personally coordinated talent representation.
When Nicholson received the Cecil B. DeMille Award at the 1999 Golden Globes, he paid tribute to Pressler. “There's only one agent who's stuck with me, mentored me, tolerated my tantrums, my operatic behavior and all that,” Nicholson said on stage. “I don't remember his name, but it's Sandy Pressler, my friend and comrade-in-arms!” he joked.
He was a member of the Board of Directors of the Association of Talent Agents for nearly three decades, and was President of the Association of Talent Agents for over a decade. He was also a life member of the Film Academy.
“During Sandy’s remarkable tenure as a friend and leader, he demonstrated unparalleled dedication and far-sighted leadership, leading the association through a period of significant growth and transformation,” ATA Executive Director Karen Stewart said in a statement.
“Under his guidance, ATA’s reach and influence have expanded. Sandy’s unwavering commitment to the talent agency profession has been instrumental in advancing the interests of our members and raising the profile of the industry as a whole. Sandy has been a mentor to many, and leaves behind a lasting impact that will be felt for years to come.”
He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Nancy, his son Eric, his daughter Jennifer Galberson (Rob), and his twin grandchildren, Brandon and Jonah Galberson.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, August 6 at 12 noon at Hillside Memorial Park, 6001 W. Centinela Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90045.
