Marty Erlichman, the influential entertainment manager responsible for discovering Barbra Streisand and steering her career for over six decades, died on Saturday. He was 97 years old, with his death attributed to age-related causes.
In a statement released by his family, Erlichman was described as a Hollywood giant to the public but a devoted father, husband, grandfather, and rock to his loved ones. The family expressed deep sorrow over his passing while highlighting their pride in the indelible mark he left on the world through his life's work.
For more than 60 years, Erlichman transformed Streisand from a New York nightclub singer into an international stage and screen star. He managed the business aspects of her career, negotiated agreements, and oversaw major projects including her 2000 Millennium Concert, the 2006-2007 world tour, and the executive production of her 1994 HBO special, "Barbra: The Concert."
Streisand honored her longtime manager in a statement, noting that while she believed he was indestructible and would live forever, nothing could prepare her for the reality of losing him. She emphasized his unwavering support and loyalty throughout her life, stating that he can never be replaced and expressing eternal gratitude for their friendship.
Beyond his work with Streisand, Erlichman achieved early success managing the Irish folk group The Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem. His client roster also included heavyweight boxing champion George Foreman, record producer Bob Crewe, the 1960s pop group Gary Puckett & the Union Gap, and comedian Chevy Chase.
Erlichman also worked as a film producer with credits including Streisand's 1974 comedy "For Pete's Sake," Michael Crichton's 1978 psychological thriller "Coma," and the 1983 romantic thriller "Breathless" starring Richard Gere. Born on September 13, 1929, in Brooklyn, New York, he graduated from Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa.
He is survived by his wife, Miko Mayama Erlichman; their son, J.J.; daughter-in-law, Talia; and four grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or the National Kidney Foundation.
Sources: Variety.