How did Mickey Cottrell die?

Mickey Cottrell, a seasoned publicist renowned for his work with independent filmmakers such as Andrew Haigh and Phillip Noyce, passed away at the age of 79 on Monday. The confirmation of his death came from Ian Burnie, a friend and former LACMA film curator. Cottrell breathed his last at the Motion Picture Hospital in Woodland Hills.

Cottrell’s journey in the world of publicity began at Landmark Theaters, later transitioning to Josh Baran & Associates. In 1989, he co-launched Cottrell and Lindeman Associates. Subsequently, in 2002, he established his own firm, Mickey Cottrell Film Publicity, and expanded further with Inclusive PR in 2004.

Known for his collaborations with renowned independent filmmakers such as Andrew Haigh, Phillip Noyce, and Wim Wenders on “Wings of Desire,” Cottrell developed a particularly close working relationship with Gus Van Sant. Together, they handled publicity for three of Van Sant’s films: “Drugstore Cowboy,” “My Own Private Idaho,” and “Even Cowgirls Get the Blues.”

In addition to his prowess in publicity, Cottrell explored producing, contributing to projects like the 1992 film “Chain of Desire,” starring Linda Fiorentino, and the 1993 Paul Bartel-directed film “Shelf Life.”

Cottrell also ventured into the realm of acting, making appearances in notable films such as “My Own Private Idaho,” “Drugstore Cowboy,” Tim Burton’s “Ed Wood,” “Volcano,” and episodes of both “Star Trek: The Next Generation” and “Star Trek: Voyager.”

Born on September 4, 1994, in Little Rock, Arkansas, Cottrell attended Catholic High School and later pursued his education at the University of Arkansas. His passion for film blossomed early, with early experiences at the Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis and managing the Loyola Theatre.

Mickey Cottrell is survived by his sisters Gigi and Suzy Cottrell, along with his nephew Jeremy Allen and great-nephew Gregory Allen.