The esteemed Hollywood publicist, actor, and producer, Mickey Cottrell, who was known for his staunch advocacy for independent films and his pursuits in acting and production, has died at 79.
Cottrell passed away on the first day of 2024 at the Motion Picture & Television Country House and Hospital located in Woodland Hills, Los Angeles, California.
Cottrell, who was born on September 4, 1944, in Springfield, Illinois, started his career in publicity at Landmark Theaters in 1982. His path in the film industry was marked by significant accomplishments and alliances.
He co-founded Cottrell and Lindeman Associates in 1989, and in 2002, he initiated his own firm, Mickey Cottrell Film Publicity, further solidifying his standing in the domain.
Cottrell’s proficiency in publicity played a critical role in the promotion of a variety of films, including well-known titles such as “Earth Girls Are Easy,” “The Quiet American,” “Weekend,” “I Am Divine,” “One False Move,” “Blood and Concrete,” “Streetwise,” “Ballets Russes,” “Salt,” and “Querelle.”
Beyond his publicity work, Cottrell partnered with numerous respected independent filmmakers. His collaborations included works with Andrew Haigh, Phillip Noyce for “Dead Calm,” Wim Wenders for “Wings of Desire,” Percy Adlon for “Bagdad Cafe,” Ira Sachs for “Keep the Lights On,” Jonathan Caouette for “Tarnation,” and notably, extensive work with Gus Van Sant.
In the film “My Own Private Idaho,” Cottrell handled publicity and demonstrated his acting skills by portraying Daddy Carroll alongside Keanu Reeves and the late River Phoenix.
Cottrell’s acting portfolio includes roles in films such as “Ed Wood,” “Volcano,” “Jolene,” “I Do,” “Shortbus,” and television roles in “Star Trek: The Next Generation” and “Star Trek: Voyager.” His skill set extended to producing, with credits in “Chain of Desire” (1992) and “Shelf Life” (1993).
His sister, Suzy Cottrell, verified his passing and paid a heartfelt tribute on Facebook, celebrating her brother’s life and his influence on those he interacted with.
Before his death, Cottrell encountered health issues, including a severe stroke in 2016. After his stroke, he resided with his sister in Arkansas before relocating back to Los Angeles in 2019.
Cottrell is survived by his sisters Suzy and Gigi, nephew Jeremy Allen, and great-nephew Gregory Allen.
Details concerning a memorial service to honor Cottrell’s life and career in the film industry are expected to be announced soon.
