LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Kevin Turen, known for creating HBO shows such as ‘Euphoria’ and ‘The Idol', passed away following a medical emergency while driving down a California freeway, according to TMZ.
The late producer's father, Edward Turen, and close friend, Michael Heller, disclosed to TMZ that Kevin was driving his 10-year-old son home from a tennis tournament on Sunday, November 12, when the tragedy occurred.
How did Kevin’s son react at the time?
Kevin's Tesla was reportedly on autopilot when he suffered a medical emergency on Sunday.
His 10-year-old son was able to steer the car off the interstate before dialing 911.
Despite being a child, Turen’s son showed immense character, and presence of mind when faced with a crisis.
Kevin was declared dead at a nearby hospital despite being transported there instantly. He was 44 years old at the time of his tragic passing.
While Kevin's father and his close friend claim that drugs and alcohol had nothing to do with his death, investigators are still trying to find an official cause of death.
Kevin’s career and legacy
Born in 1979 in New York City, Turen embarked on his journey at Columbia University, where he graduated with a degree in English and Critical Film Studies.
His career ascension saw him hold positions at ‘Capital Entertainment’, and later become the president of production at ‘First Look Studios’, where he played a pivotal role in the acquisition and distribution of over 100 films.
Turen's career trajectory included tenures at ‘Infinity Media’ and ‘Treehouse Pictures’, where he produced noteworthy films such as 'Arbitrage' (2012) and 'All is Lost' (2013).
In 2014, he joined ‘Phantom Four’, producing projects like 'Tau' (2018) and 'Assassination Nation' (2018).
In 2018, he collaborated with Sam and Ashley Levinson and co-founded ‘Little Lamb Productions’, marking their successful venture into television with HBO’s hard-hitting teenage drama 'Euphoria'.
Turen's creative abilities are reflected in the series' 25 Emmy nominations and nine wins.
Additionally, Turen and the Levinsons produced 'The Idol', an HBO miniseries in collaboration with and also starring The Weeknd, and Lily-Rose Depp, daughter of Johnny Depp.
Turen's influence expanded to the big screen, with significant productions including 'Pieces of a Woman' (2020) receiving an Academy Award nomination.
His partnership with filmmaker Ti West produced the critically acclaimed 'X' trilogy, with 'MaXXXine' on the way.
Turen's wife, Evelina, and their children continue to carry his legacy in their hearts even after his passing.
Turen's profound impact on the entertainment industry serves as an inspiration to all those who seek to pursue their passions with dedication and unwavering commitment.