Who was Arthur R. Botham? American Cinematographer Dead at 88

Arthur R. Botham was an American cinematographer who shot dozens of educational films and traveled around the world as the in-house director of photography for Encyclopedia Britannica. He was a member of the Television Academy, the DGA, SAG, IBEW Local 40, and the International Cinematographers Guild (IATSE Local 600).

He got into the entertainment industry after he joined the Chicago Stage Guild when he was 21 years old and starred in Uncle Vanya and other productions. After a stint in the U.S. Marine Corps as a helicopter repairman, he returned to Chicago, resumed acting, and became a cinematographer.

Botham was reported dead by his daughter, Julia via social media on June 26, 2023, however, the news of his death made the news on July 24, 2023.

“My dear, sweet, funny dad, Arthur Botham, “Buddy” passed away yesterday. His dad gave him the nickname “Buddy” and it was perfect. My dad was everybody’s buddy. People loved him and he loved them. His favorite question was “Can I do anything for you?” My brother-in-law Yves Bergeron described him as, “A huge heart on two legs.” That was him!” she wrote.