David Matalon, the co-founder of TriStar Pictures and former chief executive of Regency Enterprises, died on December 2, 2025, at his Beverly Hills home. He was 82 years old. The movie executive who changed the face of Hollywood through two pivotal studios and blockbuster films died of natural causes, according to Searchlight Pictures. His death means the end of an era for independent film pioneers.
Born July 5, 1943, Matalon began his career at Columbia Pictures International, where he rose to executive vice president before co-founding TriStar Pictures in 1982. As president, he defined the studio’s early strategy and branding during its formative years. This foundation launched TriStar into a major player in Hollywood filmmaking.
Matalon served as CEO of Regency Enterprises from 1995 to 2008 and greenlit award-winning films such as L.A. Confidential, Heat, Fight Club, Mr. & Mrs. Smith, The Departed, and The Fountain. During his tenure, Regency signed an important 15-year distribution deal with 20th Century Fox, cementing its status as one of the most prominent independent studios. Industry bigwigs praised his brains, flair, and honor when he departed in 2007.
Following the Regency sale, Matalon continued to produce independent gems such as What’s Eating Gilbert Grape starring Johnny Depp and Leonardo DiCaprio, Color of Night starring Bruce Willis, Hear No Evil starring Marlee Matlin, and Breaking Up starring Russell Crowe and Salma Hayek. His last credit is executive producer on 2010’s Bunraku. He is survived by daughters Michelle and Amnon, son Roy, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
