Iconic Movie Poster Artist Drew Struzan Passes Away at 78
The world of cinema is mourning the loss of legendary poster artist Drew Struzan, who died on October 13, 2025, at the age of 78, due to complications from Alzheimer’s disease. Struzan’s iconic artwork has been synonymous with some of the most beloved films of all time, including ¹:
- Star Wars Saga: A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi, and special editions
- Indiana Jones Series: Raiders of the Lost Ark and The Kingdom of the Crystal Skull
- Blade Runner (1982)
- Back to the Future Trilogy
- E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
- The Goonies
- The Muppet Movie
- The Thing
Struzan’s career spanned over five decades, during which he created more than 150 movie posters. His artistic style, characterized by hand-painted realism and emotional depth, captured the essence of the films he worked on. Directors like Steven Spielberg and George Lucas sought after Struzan for his unique ability to distill a movie’s spirit into a single image ².
Tributes and Legacy
The film industry and fans alike have paid tribute to Struzan’s legacy, with many celebrating his contributions to the world of cinema. George Lucas described him as “a storyteller whose medium was paint,” while Steven Spielberg said, “Drew’s work defined how we remember our heroes.”
Struzan’s artwork continues to inspire new generations of artists and fans. His posters are displayed in galleries, film museums, and private collections worldwide, serving as a testament to his enduring legacy ².
A Life Well-Lived
Born on March 18, 1947, in Oregon City, Oregon, Struzan developed a passion for drawing and storytelling early in life. He studied at the ArtCenter College of Design in Pasadena, California, and began his career designing album covers and commercial artwork. Struzan’s big break came when 20th Century Fox hired him to design a new poster for the re-release of Star Wars ³.
As we remember Drew Struzan’s life and work, his family reflected on his legacy, saying, “Drew’s light shone through every canvas he touched. Though Alzheimer’s dimmed his days, his art continues to illuminate generations.
Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s is a progressive neurological disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. While there’s no cure, early detection and treatment can help manage symptoms. If you or a loved one is experiencing memory loss, confusion, or difficulty with daily tasks, consult a healthcare professional.
Insurance Providers for Alzheimer’s Care
Here are some insurance providers that offer coverage for Alzheimer’s care:
- Medicare: Covers diagnostic tests, medical treatments, and some care services.
- Medicaid: Covers long-term care, including nursing home care and home health care.
- UnitedHealthcare: Offers Alzheimer’s-specific insurance plans and care programs.
- Aetna: Provides coverage for Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis, treatment, and care.
- Humana: Offers Medicare Advantage plans that cover Alzheimer’s care and services.
Raising Awareness and Support
Let’s honor Drew Struzan’s legacy by promoting Alzheimer’s awareness and supporting those affected. You can:
- Donate to Alzheimer’s research: Organizations like the Alzheimer’s Association work towards finding a cure and improving care.
- Volunteer: Participate in fundraising events, support groups, or care services.
- Spread awareness: Share information about Alzheimer’s disease and its impact.
Drew Struzan’s artwork continues to inspire generations, and his legacy serves as a reminder to prioritize our brain health and support those affected by Alzheimer’s