In 1973, after seeing
American Graffiti , Alan Ladd, Jr. ( known as "Laddie") met with George Lucas, during the meeting. the young filmmaker pitched his idea for what would become
Star Wars
“Laddie loved film and believed in filmmakers. He was one of the few executives who bet on the person rather than the project,” said George Lucas. “Without Laddie there would be no Star Wars. He didn’t understand what Star Wars was about, but he believed in me and supported my vision. Quiet and thoughtful, he had an independent spirit that gave so many storytellers a chance. He stood up to the studios and went with his gut instinct. Laddie took a great personal and professional risk on Star Wars, and on me, and for that I will be forever grateful.”
During his time as chairman and CEO of MGM/United, as well as with his own production company, The Ladd Company, Ladd was also a producer on numerous films, including
Alien (1979),
Blade Runner (1982),
Spaceballs (1987), and
Willow (1988).
(
StarWars.com
)
