Kevin Turen, a producer of the hit HBO series ‘Euphoria’ and the upcoming film ‘The Idol’, passed away unexpectedly over the weekend. He was 44 years old. The cause of his death is not yet known.
Turen was a close friend of Jay Penske, the CEO of Variety’s parent company Penske Media Corporation, who released a statement on his passing.
“Kevin was so incredibly special, this world is going to be less without him. He was one of the most brilliant, creative, and fearless people I have ever known, and his loss is devastating to me and to everyone lucky enough to work with him or call him a friend,” Penske said.
Turen is survived by his wife, Evelina Turen, and their two children.
A Prolific Producer
Turen was a prolific producer who worked on a variety of projects, from indie films to blockbuster TV shows. He started his career as an assistant to producer Scott Rudin and later co-founded Before the Door Pictures with actor Zachary Quinto.
Some of his notable credits include ‘All Is Lost’, ‘Arbitrage’, ‘The Dead Girl’, ‘Margin Call’, and ‘A Most Violent Year’. He also produced Ti West’s ‘X’ trilogy, which consists of three horror films that are set to be released in 2023.
Turen was also an executive producer of ‘Euphoria’, the critically acclaimed drama series that stars Zendaya as a troubled teenager struggling with addiction, trauma, and identity. The show has won several awards, including a Primetime Emmy for Zendaya’s performance.
Turen’s latest project was ‘The Idol’, a biopic of the Palestinian singer Mohammed Assaf, who won the Arab Idol competition in 2013. The film is directed by Hany Abu-Assad and stars Ali Suliman, Lubna Azabal, and Kais Nashif. It is expected to premiere in 2023.
A Legacy of Passion and Innovation
Turen was known for his passion and innovation in the film and TV industry. He was always looking for new ways to tell stories and to support emerging talent. He was also a generous and loyal friend, who was always there to help and inspire others.
Many of his colleagues and collaborators have expressed their grief and condolences on social media, remembering him as a visionary, a mentor, and a kind soul.
Sam Levinson, the creator and director of ‘Euphoria’, wrote on Instagram: “Kevin Turen was my brother. He was the smartest, most creative, most passionate person I’ve ever met. He taught me everything I know about filmmaking and life. He was my partner, my confidant, my best friend. I don’t know how to live without him. I love you, Kevin. Rest in peace.”
Zachary Quinto, who co-founded Before the Door Pictures with Turen, posted on Twitter: “I am heartbroken and devastated by the loss of my dear friend and producing partner Kevin Turen. He was a brilliant, fearless, and generous soul, who touched so many lives with his creativity and kindness. I will miss him terribly and cherish our memories forever.”
Zendaya, who starred in ‘Euphoria’ and ‘The Idol’, shared on Instagram: “I am in shock and disbelief. Kevin Turen was not only an amazing producer, but also a wonderful human being. He was always supportive, encouraging, and full of joy. He believed in me and our show, and I will always be grateful for that. He was family to me and to all of us on ‘Euphoria’. I can’t imagine a world without him. My heart goes out to his wife, his kids, and his loved ones. Rest in power, Kevin.”
