Jack Nicholson received the sad news that his longtime agent and friend, Sandy Bresler, died on Thursday, August 1, 2024 at 87 after a short illness. Bresler had represented Nicholson for over six decades, guiding him through some of the most iconic roles in Hollywood history.
According to a statement from his family, Bresler passed away in Santa Monica, California. Known for his dedication to his clients and approach to talent management, Bresler was instrumental in developing Nicholson’s career. The two first met in the early 1960s while serving in the California Air National Guard, and their partnership spanned more than 60 years.
Nicholson often spoke fondly of Bresler. During his acceptance of the Cecil B. DeMille Award at the 1999 Golden Globes, Nicholson humorously remarked, “There is only one agent who has stayed with me, guided me, tolerated my tantrums, my operatic behavior and so forth. His name escapes me,” before warmly adding, “Sandy Bresler, my pal, and comrade in arms.”
Bresler began his career in 1960 as a secretary at the William Morris Agency, where he quickly made a name for himself. By 1983, he had co-founded the boutique agency Bresler-Kelly & Associates and was responsible for managing the careers of other prominent Hollywood figures like Judd Hirsch and Randy Quaid. Bresler’s influence was not limited to his clients; he also played a significant role in the Association of Talent Agents (ATA), serving as its president for more than a decade and helping to expand its influence in Hollywood.
Karen Stuart, the executive director of the ATA, noted that Sandy’s strong dedication to the talent agency field played a crucial role in promoting the interests of their members and improving the industry overall. She added that he was a mentor to many and will leave a long-lasting influence that will continue to be felt.
Bresler underwent sextuple heart bypass surgery in 2003, but his health challenges never deterred him from his work. His dedication to his clients and the entertainment industry remained strong even after the surgery, which was a testament to his resilience and professionalism.
In recent years, Nicholson has largely stayed out of the public eye, leading to concerns among his fans about his health. The 85-year-old actor, known for his roles in “The Shining” and “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest,” has been described as reclusive, sparking rumors of memory issues. Although Nicholson has denied retiring due to health problems, he has not been active in the entertainment industry since 2010.
Bresler is survived by his wife of 58 years, Nancy, their two children, Eric and Jennifer, and twin grandsons, Brandon and Jonah. His funeral was held on August 6 at Hillside Memorial Park in Los Angeles.