Kevin Turen, Euphoria and X Trilogy Producer, Dies at 44

Jay Penske, CEO of Variety's parent company Penske Media Corporation, mourns the loss of close friend and producer Kevin Turen.

Jay Penske, the CEO of Penske Media Corporation, the parent company of Variety, expressed deep sadness over the passing of his close friend Kevin Turen. Penske emphasized Turen's dedication to his family and friends, particularly his pride in his children and his commitment to instilling strong values in them. Turen's passing was a profound loss for those who knew him, and the entire community mourned the loss of one of its brightest talents.

Turen's impact on the entertainment industry was significant, particularly through his collaboration with Sam Levinson and Ashley Levinson, with whom he co-founded Little Lamb Productions in 2018. The trio worked on projects such as HBO's "Euphoria," a critically acclaimed series that delves into the struggles of a teenager dealing with drug addiction. Turen also played a key role in producing "The Idol" and "Assassination Nation," both of which were part of Sam Levinson's creative portfolio.

In addition to his work with the Levinsons, Turen also contributed to several films by indie director Ti West, including the "X" slasher film trilogy, "Pearl," and the upcoming sequel "MaXXXine." These films, featuring actress Mia Goth in prominent roles, showcased Turen's diverse range as a producer.

Turen's production credits extended to a wide array of films, including the A24 drama "Waves," the Netflix drama "Pieces of a Woman," and the meta-comedy "The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent," starring Nicolas Cage and Pedro Pascal. He also worked on "The Birth of a Nation," "99 Homes," and the drama "All Is Lost," further showcasing his versatility and impact in the industry.

Born in New York City and educated at Columbia University, Turen's passion for film was evident from an early age. He began his career as a creative executive at First Look Studios, where he eventually became the company's president of production, overseeing the acquisition and distribution of notable films such as "The Proposition," "The Dead Girl," and "An American Crime." Turen's journey in the industry led him to roles at Infinity Media and Treehouse Pictures before he became the president of production at Phantom Four, ultimately co-founding Little Lamb Productions.

The loss of Kevin Turen reverberated throughout the entertainment world, leaving a void that his colleagues and the broader community deeply felt. His legacy as a dedicated producer and creative force will continue to inspire future generations in the industry.