The American Society of Cinematographers (ASC) has confirmed that television legend Richard M. Rawlings Jr has died at the age of 82. The Emmy-nominated cinematographer was known for his work on Gilmore Girls, Desperate Housewives, Charlie's Angels, and Boston Legal, and also directed episodes of Paradise and Reasonable Doubts in the 1990s.
Death and Family
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Rawlings Jr died on 30 June in Flagstaff, Arizona. He is survived by his two children, daughter Kami and son Matt, and two grandsons. His wife, Diane, predeceased him in 2003.
Early Life and Career
Born in Los Angeles on October 9, 1943, Rawlings Jr learned his craft from his father, Richard L. Rawlings, whose cinematography credits include episodes of Gilligan's Island and Dynasty. Rawlings Jr began working as a messenger boy at Warner Bros. in 1962, eventually joining the camera department and assisting his father. He described working with his father as "the most important in my career. In his own patient way, he passed to me his great knowledge of lighting and composition."
Tributes
Tributes have poured in on social media. One person wrote: "Worked on a few shows with him. Good guy and one of the best with a camera. God bless you my friend." Another said: "Just hearing of his passing. I worked with Richard on many shows and he always made you feel comfortable and positive doing stunts. Also, I worked with his father. RIP sir you were the best." A third recalled: "He was a prince of a human being; I took a day call with him on B camera as a new operator; and stayed for over a month. He taught me a lot about composition, and the ins and outs of B camera coverage. He treated everyone on set with respect. His crew loved him and production loved him. RIP JR."
