Bobby Meyers, veteran film sales and distribution executive and co-founder of the American Film Market, died at his New Jersey home at the age of 90, according to the Independent Film & Television Alliance.
Meyers’ first executive position in his 55-year career was at Columbia Pictures International, where he rose to become the studio’s European sales manager and worked out of Paris and Brussels. He later held executive positions at National General Pictures, Lorimar, Filmways, Orion Pictures and Village Roadshow.
Among the films Meyers handled distribution on are Brian De Palma’s breakout film “Obsession” and the Peter Sellers dramedy “Being There.”
With independent filmmaking on the rise in the 1970s, Meyers was one of several executives who saw a need for a hub for producers and filmmakers to make distribution and financing deals. In 1981, Meyers was part of a group of executives that co-founded the American Film Market and remained an attendee of the annual event for four decades.
He served as the first chairman of the American Film Marketing Association (now IFTA), and under his leadership, it introduced many vital services for independent companies that continue to play a role in the industry today. He remained an active part of the organization after stepping down, serving as vice chairman and board member.
“Bobby was instrumental in encouraging and shaping the independent film industry landscape throughout his extensive career,” said Jean Prewitt, president and CEO of the Independent Film & Television Alliance. “Bobby was a trusted colleague, a confident and an advisor whose insight and support mattered to me and to all who had the pleasure of working with him.”
Bobby is survived by his beloved wife, Roberta; his children Adam Meyers (Dana Meyers), David Meyers (Alison Glanz), and Jen Meyers (Ben Zoll); his grandchildren Eric Meyers (Nicole Meyers), Rachel Severo (Mike Severo), Carly Meyers, Samantha Meyers, Benjamin Meyers, Asher Meyers-Light, Bodhi Meyers-Light, Ida Zoll and Florian Zoll; and his great-grandchildren Jacob Meyers and Kara Meyers.
