Robert Lieberman, the acclaimed director known for his work on films like “Fire in the Sky” and “D3: The Mighty Ducks,” as well as numerous television shows and commercials, has passed away at the age of 75. Lieberman’s son, Nick Lieberman, announced that the director died in Los Angeles on July 1 after a long battle with cancer.
Throughout his career, Lieberman directed a wide range of projects, including episodes of popular TV series like “The X-Files,” “Dexter,” and “Criminal Minds.” He also worked on thousands of commercials for well-known companies such as McDonald’s, Hallmark, and Oreo. Lieberman had the opportunity to collaborate with numerous notable talents, from President Clinton and Ray Charles to Michael Jordan and Anne Hathaway. His work in commercials earned him over two dozen Clio Awards, as well as the inaugural DGA Award for commercials in 1979. Lieberman co-founded Harmony Pictures, where he produced much of his commercial work, alongside Stuart Gross.
In the realm of filmmaking, Lieberman directed notable movies such as “Fire in the Sky” (1993), a science fiction film starring D.B. Sweeney and Robert Patrick, and “D3: The Mighty Ducks” (1996), the third installment in the popular hockey franchise starring Emilio Estevez. He also helmed “Table for Five” (1983), featuring Jon Voight and Richard Crenna, and “All I Want for Christmas” (1991), starring Lauren Bacall and Thora Birch.
Lieberman’s passion for film began during his time at the University at Buffalo, where he played a pivotal role in establishing the school’s film program. He became the first student at the university to graduate with a degree in film. Before transitioning to directing, Lieberman worked as a video assistant for the NFL‘s Buffalo Bills. One of his early directorial projects centered around the inspiring story of pro football player Rocky Bleier in the telefilm “Fighting Back: The Story of Rocky Bleier” (1980), featuring Robert Urich.
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In addition to his film and television work, Lieberman directed an episode of the first season of “thirtysomething” in 1987. He went on to direct 19 pilots, 16 of which were picked up as series, including “Gabriel’s Fire,” “Strong Medicine,” and “The Dead Zone.”
Lieberman was previously married to actress Marilu Henner from 1990 to 2001, and they had two children together, Nick and Joseph. He later married Victoria in 2010. Lieberman is survived by his wife, Victoria, his children from his first marriage, Erin and Lorne, his son-in-law, producer Trent Othick, his stepdaughter, Kristen Konvitz, and his sister, Fern.
Robert Lieberman leaves behind a lasting legacy in the world of film and television, with his contributions spanning across various genres and mediums. His talent and passion for storytelling will be remembered, and his impact on the industry will continue to inspire future generations of filmmakers.