LOS ANGELES, CA — Directors Guild of America President Michael Apted made the following statement on the passing of former MPAA Chairman and CEO Jack Valenti:
"Nobody loved and defended film more than Jack did. Movies meant more to Jack than just box office and balance sheets. He was a true fan of the art form and he cherished his kinship with directors and other creative artists. We were proud to make him an Honorary Life Member of the DGA in 2001. Jack was as fearless as he was eloquent, brilliant, nimble and strong. He earned our love and respect with his passionate commitment to the motion picture industry, and he will be greatly missed."
