David Matalon Dead: TriStar Founder Was 82

David Matalon , a founding member of TriStar Pictures and producer of films like “What’s Eating Gilbert Grape” and “Hear No Evil,” died on Dec. 2 in his Beverly Hills home, Variety has learned. He was 82.

Born in 1943, Matalon began his career at Columbia Pictures International. He worked his way up to executive vice president of the company before leaving to co-found TriStar Pictures. He served as president of TriStar Pictures during his tenure. Matalon led strategic direction for TriStar and was integral in shaping the company’s early identity.

After leaving TriStar, Matalon went on to lead day-to-day operations at Regency Enterprises. Under Matalon’s guidance, Regency produced films such as “L.A. Confidential,” “Heat,” “ Fight Club ,” “Unfaithful,” “Entrapment,” “The Fountain” an