Al Ruddy, the Oscar-winning producer behind iconic films such as “The Godfather” and “Million Dollar Baby,” passed away on Saturday, May 25, 2024 at 94. Known for his versatility and knack for storytelling, Ruddy left an indelible mark on Hollywood.
Ruddy, who also co-created the CBS sitcom “Hogan’s Heroes,” died following a brief illness at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles, California. His family announced his passing through a publicist, emphasizing his lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
Born Albert Stotland Ruddy in Montreal, Canada on March 28, 1930, he moved to New York with his family at age seven. Ruddy’s mother, Ruth, was a luxury fur designer, which instilled in him an appreciation for creativity. He graduated from Brooklyn Technical High School in 1948. He later studied chemical engineering at City College of New York before transferring to the University of Southern California (USC) to earn a degree in architecture.
Ruddy’s journey into Hollywood began unexpectedly while working for a construction firm in New Jersey. A chance meeting with Jack L. Warner led to a job offer in Los Angeles. Ruddy eventually found his way into television, where he met Bernard Fein. The two developed “Hogan’s Heroes,” a sitcom about prisoners in a German POW camp outsmarting their captors. The show ran for six successful seasons on CBS starting in 1965.
Despite the success of “Hogan’s Heroes,” Ruddy’s heart was set on the film industry. He got his big break with “The Godfather” (1972), a film that would become a cornerstone of his career. Working closely with director Francis Ford Coppola, Ruddy was crucial in bringing Marlon Brando on board as Don Vito Corleone. He also negotiated with the Italian-American Civil Rights League to ensure that terms like “mafia” and “cosa nostra” were not used in the film.
Al Pacino, who portrayed Michael Corleone in “The Godfather,” fondly remembered Ruddy, saying, “Ruddy was incredibly supportive of me throughout the production; he believed in me even when others did not. His encouragement came at a critical time, and I will always remember that.”
After “The Godfather,” Ruddy produced several notable films, including “The Longest Yard” (1974) with Burt Reynolds, “The Cannonball Run” (1981) and its sequel in 1984, and “Million Dollar Baby” (2004). The latter film, directed by Clint Eastwood, won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Ruddy’s collaboration with Eastwood was a career highlight, bringing him his second Oscar.
Miles Teller, who portrayed Ruddy in the Paramount+ series “The Offer,” about the making of “The Godfather,” expressed his admiration, stating, “It was an honor and a privilege to portray Al. Al lived a life most could only dream of, and all would envy.”
Ruddy’s ability to identify and cultivate compelling stories was evident throughout his career. He produced a variety of films that showcased his range, from the western “Bad Girls” (1994) to the baseball comedy “The Scout” (1994). His “Million Dollar Baby” production was initially met with skepticism due to its seemingly bleak subject matter, but Ruddy’s determination brought it to fruition.
In addition to his film work, Ruddy made significant contributions to television. He co-created the CBS police drama “Walker, Texas Ranger” and developed the ABC miniseries “How the West Was Won.”
Ruddy’s family described him as having “a penchant for four-letter words” and a “gravel-voiced” demeanor, highlighting his down-to-earth nature and passion for the stories he told. His wife, Wanda McDaniel, his children, John and Alexandra, and his son-in-law, screenwriter Abdullah Saeed, survive him.
Reflecting on his legacy, his family added, “To his contemporaries in the business, Ruddy is best remembered for his easy-going nature, undeniable comedic sense, and undying interest in people and the stories we tell.”
Al Ruddy’s career spanned several decades, leaving behind a body of work that continues to inspire filmmakers and entertain audiences. As Hollywood bids farewell to this legendary producer, his contributions to the industry will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.