'The Phantom of the Opera' Icon Martin McCallum Dead at 73

Martin McCallum, a famed theatrical director who worked on "Les Misérables" and "The Phantom of the Opera," has died. He was 73.

McCallum's death was shared by multiple media outlets after the confirmation from his family and colleagues, including producer Shidan Majidi and the Society of London Theatre (SOLT).

Martin McCallum Dead at 73

According to SOLT and Majidi, McCallum died "peacefully" on January 14 while surrounded by his family. His exact cause of death was not disclosed to the public.

"We are deeply saddened by the passing of visionary leader and former President of SOLT, Martin McCallum (6.04.1950 - 14.01.2024). His significant contributions to the theatre industry will never be forgotten," the official X account of SOLT wrote.

"In Martin McCallum, we have lost an extraordinary individual who shaped the landscape of the theatre sector," SOLT President Eleanor Lloyd shared. "His immense talent and expertise were matched only by his unwavering commitment to the arts. Martin will be deeply missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come."

Lucy Frazer said, "Martin McCallum had an extraordinary career & helped to shape our theatre sector - bringing productions like Les Miserables, Miss Saigon & Phantom of the Opera to the stage. A great life & a huge loss. My thoughts are with his family & friends."

Details about his funeral and memorial have yet to be released.

Martin McCallum's Legacy

McCallum started his career as a production manager under the mentorship of Laurence Olivier. He notably managed several productions, including the 1975's "No Man's Land."

After leaving the National Theatre in 1978, he launched The Production Office where he worked on "Jesus Christ Superstar," "Sweeney Todd" and "Evita."

McCallum's work on "Cats" opened his doors for him to a broader empire. Cameron Mackintosh hired him as his managing director and business partner for nearly two decades and let him oversee hits like "Miss Saigon," "The Phantom of the Opera" and "Les Misérables."

His other works included "Dirty Dancing," "Edward Scissorhands," "The Cripple of Inishmaan" and "Spider Man."

The late musical director scored other works like President of the Society of London Theatre, a member of London's Cultural Strategy Group and a member of the Broadway League.

McCallum spent the remainder of his life in Australia, where he and his family moved in 2003.