Frank Price was an influential Hollywood studio executive whose guiding hand helped shape some of cinema's most iconic works.
A Career of Firsts and Hits
Born in Decatur, Illinois, Price began as a writer, and later producer, in television before becoming president of Universal Television. He oversaw landmark shows such as The Six Million Dollar Man, Battlestar Galactica, The Incredible Hulk, The Virginian, Rich Man, Poor Man, Baretta, Ironside, Quincy, and Kojak.
In the late 1970s, Price moved to features, rising to president and later chairman and CEO of Columbia Pictures. There, he demonstrated a remarkable eye for both commercial and artistic success, shepherding "Tootsie," "Ghostbusters," and "The Karate Kid" to critical and box-office acclaim. He also backed the sweeping epics "Gandhi" and "Out of Africa," and the groundbreaking "Kramer vs. Kramer," all of which earned Best Picture at the Academy Awards.
After moving to Universal Pictures, Price again proved his taste and courage launching "Back to the Future." Later, his greenlight of "Boyz n the Hood" brought a searing, authentic vision of Los Angeles to the screen and helped launch a new generation of filmmakers such as John Singleton.
Later Career and Legacy
Price also founded his own production company, Price Entertainment, continuing to make thoughtful, distinctive films like "Shadowlands" and "A Bronx Tale." Across more than five decades, his career reflected a rare mix of business acumen, risk-taking, and respect for story.
Frank Price's name is tied to some of Hollywood's boldest and most enduring work. From the grandeur of "Out of Africa" to the raw insight of "Boyz n the Hood" to the crowd pleasing hilarity of "Tootsie," he championed stories that moved audiences and changed the industry.
He was particularly proud of his involvement with USC also serving as a Trustee. Frank created and chaired the University of Southern California School of Cinematic Arts Board of Councilors from 1992 to 2021.
Frank Price's life was a masterpiece of its own—a story of vision, heart, and connection that will continue to inspire for generations to come.
