Gary Khammar was a pioneer in the home entertainment industry, a visionary executive, and a talented producer and director. Known for his work with Columbia Pictures Home Entertainment and RCA/Columbia Pictures Home Video, he played a crucial role in shaping the early days of home entertainment. Beyond his executive career, Gary Khammar made his mark in filmmaking, earning accolades for his contributions.
Early Life
Gary Khammar was born on June 18, 1951, in Watertown, New York, to Fred and Catherine Khammar. Growing up in a time when music and media were rapidly evolving, he developed an early appreciation for the entertainment industry. His upbringing in Watertown shaped his curiosity and passion for storytelling, setting the stage for a dynamic and impactful career.
Education and Career Beginnings
Following high school graduation, Khammar attended the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. It was during this time that he developed a keen interest in media, music, and the evolving entertainment landscape. After graduation, Khammar began his career in the record industry, working his way through the ranks.
A Pioneer of Home Entertainment
Khammar became a key figure in the home video industry, joining Columbia Pictures Home Entertainment, which later became RCA/Columbia Pictures Home Video, the precursor to Sony Pictures Home Entertainment. He rose to Executive Vice President (EVP), and helped shape the company’s home videos strategy.
His tenure coincided with a revolution in home entertainment, with VHS and other formats transforming the way people consumed media. Gary Khammar helped Columbia Pictures succeed in the competitive market through his marketing, distribution, and content strategy skills. After more than ten years at the company, he retired as EVP in June 1989.
Transition into Film and Television Production
After leaving Columbia, Gary Khammar shifted his focus to film and television production. He worked as a producer and director, contributing to various projects that earned industry awards.
One of his most notable projects was “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation” (2000), a groundbreaking crime drama that captivated audiences worldwide. His ability to tell compelling stories through visual media was further demonstrated in “Kubrick Remembered” (2014), a documentary exploring the life and work of legendary filmmaker Stanley Kubrick. Additionally, Gary Khammar was involved in “Tales from the Warner Bros. Lot” (2013), a project that provided an inside look at one of Hollywood’s most iconic studios.
For his work in film and television, Gary Khammar won the Telly Award for Non-Broadcast Productions in the History/Biography category. This recognition highlighted his talent for capturing compelling stories and bringing them to life on screen.
Family, Marriage, and Personal Life
Gary Khammar was also a family man. He was married to Nancy with whom he shares two children, Jordan and Ashley. Khammar was also a devoted grandfather.
Legacy and Passing
On May 2, 2024, Gary Khammar died in Sherman Oaks, Los Angeles, California, at the age of 73. His passing marked the end of an era, but his legacy lives on through the many contributions he made to film, television, and home entertainment.
He is survived by his wife, Nancy, his children Jordan and Ashley, and his beloved grandchildren. His impact on both the industry and his family ensures that his memory will endure for generations to come.
