Lew Palter, renowned ‘Titanic’ actor and influential mentor to Hollywood stars, passes away at 94

Lew Palter, the acclaimed actor known for his role as Isidor Straus in James Cameron’s iconic film “Titanic,” has passed away at the age of 94. In addition to his acting career, which included notable roles in “Hill Street Blues” and “The Flying Nun,” as well as extensive theater work, Palter was a highly respected acting teacher at CalArts in Santa Clarita, California.

Travis Preston, the dean of CalArts’ School of Theater, expressed his sorrow over Palter’s passing, stating, “It is with great sadness that I share the news that longtime School of Theater faculty Lew Palter has passed away.” Preston emphasized that Palter was a cherished member of the community, dedicating his talents and expertise to teaching acting, directing, and mentoring students. Palter instilled in his students a deep passion for the craft of acting, fostering curiosity, intellect, and humor in every scene, play, and class. His impact and influence on his students will forever be remembered.

Preston added, “His career on the stage and screen was remarkable, and he had an unwavering dedication to the theater. I always found him to be genuine, thoughtful, and sincere in his interactions. His legacy lives on through the countless careers, lives, and stories he touched, and our thoughts are with his family, friends, and the entire theater community that held him dear.”

According to the Hollywood Reporter, Palter’s daughter, Catherine, confirmed that he passed away on May 21 at his home in Los Angeles after battling lung cancer. Throughout his career, Palter had the privilege of teaching famous students such as Ed Harris, Don Cheadle, and Cecily Strong, who paid tribute to him by describing him as a phenomenal teacher and expressing gratitude for the opportunity to learn from him.

Palter’s portrayal of Isidor Straus in “Titanic” left a lasting impact, as Straus and his wife tragically perished on the ill-fated ship. The emotional scene where Straus stays beside his wife in bed as the ship sinks is etched in the memories of viewers. In a deleted scene, Palter’s character pleads with his wife to board a lifeboat, but she adamantly refuses, declaring their bond of love and loyalty.

Born as Leon Louis Palter on November 3, 1928, Palter pursued higher education, receiving a master’s degree from Alfred University and a Ph.D. in theater from Northwestern University. Before starting his career in the entertainment industry, he served in the Army. Palter continued to act in various television shows while teaching at CalArts, leaving a lasting impact on his students and changing their lives.

Lew Palter is survived by his daughter Catherine and his grandchildren Sam, Tessa, and Miranda. His contributions to the world of acting and his dedication to teaching will always be remembered.

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