“A huge tree has fallen in the Black Broadway community,” Tony-nominated producer Lamar Richardson tweeted. “Ron walked so that many of us could run in this industry.”
The School of Drama expresses deep sorrow at the news of the passing of Drama MFA alum Ron Simons (November 30, 1960 – June 12, 2024).
Originally from Detroit, Mr. Simons aspired to pursue a career in acting but initially veered into the realm of technology to support his family after completing his education at Columbia University. It was not until the age of 39 that he transitioned back to his passion for acting, subsequently obtaining an MFA in acting from the University of Washington’s School of Drama in 2001.
Mr. Simons' career as a producer burgeoned following his time as an actor. He established SimonSays Entertainment, which earned acclaim, garnering four Tony awards for its outstanding productions. His noteworthy works include Porgy and Bess, Thoughts of a Colored Man, Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike, and Jitney. Recognized as an advocate for amplifying diverse voices and narratives, he made significant contributions to the industry.
Broadway also bore witness to Mr. Simons’ contributions, with his involvement in productions such as A Streetcar Named Desire, A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder, and Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations, which played a pivotal role in Broadway's resurgence following the Covid-19 shutdown.
Mr. Simons' impact extended to the world of film, where he held production credits for titles including Night Catches Us, Gun Hill Road, The Seagull (2018), and I Miss You.
As we honor the life and professional journey of Ron Simons, our heartfelt condolences are extended to his family, friends, and colleagues who had the privilege of knowing him.
Funeral details are pending and will likely be posted here.
Please click on the news link below to learn more about Ron Simon's remarkable life and career.