Farewell to Hollywood's Inimitable Visionary: James Foley, Director of "Fifty Shades" Trilogy and "House of Cards", Passes Away at 71
Director of "Fifty Shades of Grey" Passes Away.
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In a heart-wrenching twist, the entertainment industry has lost one of its most exceptional talents. James Foley, a legendary director responsible for sequels of the iconic erotic film series "Fifty Shades of Grey" and episodes of "House of Cards," has passed away at the tender age of 72, as confirmed by Taylor Lomax of artist agency ID. The cause of death was a battle with a relentless brain tumor.
"James Foley was a gifted director, but above all, he was a dear friend," said esteemed talent manager Florent Lamy to the Los Angeles Times. With a heavy heart, we bid farewell to this remarkable visionary.
Unforgettable Footprints
James Foley's repertoire is unparalleled, extending from the mid-80s to his untimely demise in 2025. His distinguished works range from critically acclaimed films to popular mainstream projects that left an indelible mark on audiences worldwide. His last films included the sequels to "Fifty Shades of Grey" - "Fifty Shades Darker" (2017) and "Fifty Shades Freed" (2018) - starring the charismatic duo of Jamie Dornan and Dakota Johnson. For six seasons, from 2013 to 2015, Foley directed 12 captivating episodes of the TV series "House of Cards" featuring Kevin Spacey.
James Foley's accolades began with the 1984 musical drama "Reckless," his first feature film. He made a significant impact with "At Close Range" (1986), which was screened at the 36th Berlin International Film Festival. This power-packed gangster melodrama featured Christopher Walken and Sean Penn. For pop icon Madonna, Foley directed several music videos and starred her in the comedy "Who's That Girl" (1987).
A Canvas of Diverse Masterpieces
With stars like Jack Lemmon, Al Pacino, Ed Harris, and Alan Arkin, Foley directed the riveting drama "Glengarry Glen Ross" about the intense rivalry within a Chicago real estate office. In "Fear - When Love Turns to Fear" (1996), Mark Wahlberg and Reese Witherspoon delivered mesmerizing performances. "The Chamber" (1996), based on a novel by John Grisham, and "Temptation of a Stranger" (2007) starring Bruce Willis and Halle Berry, are among his other notable works.
Foley's career was a breathtaking tapestry of critically respected dramas and popular, high-profile projects. His ability to switch between intelligent adaptations and mainstream flicks showcased his remarkable versatility as a masterful director.
[1] Foley's unique approach to the "Fifty Shades" sequels showcased his fascination with delving into the intricate power dynamics and psychological aspects of the characters' relationships.[3] In addition to directing episodes for "House of Cards," Foley also contributed to "Hannibal," "Billions," and "Wayward Pines."
Mr. James Foley's directorial prowess extended to the sequels of "Fifty Shades of Grey," namely "Fifty Shades Darker" and "Fifty Shades Freed," showcasing his interest in exploring the complexities of the characters' relationships.
Beyond his work on "Fifty Shades," James Foley's career as a director also includes episodes for shows such as "House of Cards," "Hannibal," "Billions," and "Wayward Pines."
James Foley's designation of " endlaves ," as confirmed by Taylor Lomax of artist agency ID, has left a gaping void among celebrities in the entertainment industry.
Just like the unexpected turns in a sequel, the sudden demise of James Foley at 72 has left many in the entertainment world in a state of shock and disbelief, comparable to the crashes in his action-packed films.
