Nancy Bernstein, who served as head of production at DreamWorks Animation, died Friday at age 55 following a long battle with colorectal cancer.
Bernstein spent a decade at DWA, where she produced “Rise of the Guardians.” She chronicled her cancer battle for the USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center.
Bernstein came to DreamWorks Animation from Digital Domain, where she led the studio’s feature effects production on the Oscar-winning “What Dreams May Come” and the Oscar-nominated
“I, Robot.” She worked as the visual effects executive producer on more than 30 films, including “The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring,” “A Beautiful Mind” and “Aeon Flux.” She also oversaw visual effects production on many of Ron Howard’s films.
DreamWorks Animation released the following statement:
“We are heartbroken by the loss of Nancy Bernstein, a dear family member who passed away on Friday following a long and courageous battle with illness. One of our most beloved and respected producers and executives, Nancy spent 10 years at DWA, where she excelled as Head of Production, feature film producer, and most recently, overseeing all new business productions for DWA’s global initiatives. Nancy’s unwavering professional tenacity translated to her efforts in searching for a cure for colorectal cancer through her organization, Call to Cure. Our deepest sympathies go out to Nancy’s family during this incredibly difficult time.”
Bernstein is survived by her wife Cheryl and daughter Ruby.
