Ted Kotcheff, Director of 'First Blood' and 'Weekend at Bernie’s,' Dies at 94

The acclaimed Canadian filmmaker, known for his artistic integrity and contributions to film and television, passed away on April 10, 2025, as confirmed by his family.

Ted Kotcheff, the Toronto-born director, was celebrated for his diverse filmography, including 'First Blood,' which introduced Sylvester Stallone as John Rambo, and the comedy 'Weekend at Bernie’s.'
His career began in Canadian television in the 1950s before expanding internationally with works like 'The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz,' which won the Golden Bear at the Berlin Film Festival.
Kotcheff contributed significantly to television, serving as an executive producer on 'Law & Order: Special Victims Unit' for over a decade.
He was known for his principled approach to filmmaking, notably declining to direct sequels to 'First Blood' due to his opposition to the Vietnam War and its glorification in the scripts.
Kotcheff passed away peacefully in Nuevo Nayarit, Mexico, surrounded by family, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, creativity, and integrity in the entertainment industry.

The Globe and Mail

The Hollywood Reporter