Context:

James Foley, a renowned filmmaker known for directing two sequels of Fifty Shades of Grey and multiple Madonna music videos, has passed away at the age of 71 after a prolonged battle with brain cancer. His prolific career began with the 1984 film Reckless and included notable works like At Close Range, which featured Madonna's 'Live to Tell.' Foley's collaborations with Madonna extended to several music videos and concert films, highlighting his significant influence in the music video industry. His directorial ventures also included acclaimed films such as Glengarry Glen Ross and TV series like House of Cards, Hannibal, and Billions. The sequels to Fifty Shades of Grey, namely Fifty Shades Darker and Fifty Shades Freed, achieved substantial commercial success, grossing a combined total of $714 million worldwide, solidifying his impact on both the film and television landscape.

Dive Deeper:

• James Foley, a celebrated filmmaker, died at 71 after battling brain cancer for a year, as confirmed by his family. He is especially recognized for directing the sequels Fifty Shades Darker and Fifty Shades Freed, which together grossed $714 million globally.

• Foley's career began with the 1984 romantic dramedy Reckless, and he gained further acclaim with the 1986 film At Close Range, starring Sean Penn and Christopher Walken. The movie featured Madonna's 'Live to Tell,' which he directed and produced as a music video.

• His collaboration with Madonna extended to directing the music videos for 'Dress You Up,' 'Papa Don't Preach,' and 'True Blue,' as well as the concert film Madonna Live: The Virgin Tour, showcasing his pivotal role in shaping iconic music video productions.

• In addition to his work with Madonna, Foley directed the classic film Glengarry Glen Ross, known for its stellar cast and sharp dialogue, further establishing his reputation in the film industry.

• Beyond films, Foley directed episodes for popular TV series such as House of Cards, Hannibal, and Billions, demonstrating his versatility and adaptability across different media formats.

• Foley's direction of the Fifty Shades sequels not only contributed to their significant box office success but also underscored his ability to handle large-scale productions with widespread appeal.

• His death marks the loss of a significant figure in both the film and music video industries, leaving behind a legacy of influential works that have resonated with audiences worldwide.

• James Foley has sadly passed away.

• The 71-year-old filmmaker, who helmed two Fifty Shades of Grey sequels and directed multiple Madonna movies and music videos, has died at the age of 71, his family confirmed.

• The family’s rep confirmed that he died earlier this week after a yearlong battle with brain cancer, via Deadline.

• Keep reading to find out more…

• James made his directing debut with Reckless, the 1984 romantic dramedy with Aidan Quinn and Daryl Hannah. He also directed 1986′s At Close Range with Sean Penn and Christopher Walken.

• The film featured Madonna‘s “Live to Tell,” and James would direct and produce the accompanying music video. She also worked with the director on the “Dress You Up” video and concert film Madonna Live: The Virgin Tour, and later did the videos for “Papa Don’t Preach” and “True Blue” with him. He also directed Who’s That Girl? and helmed the video for the title song.

• James also directed Glengarry Glen Ross, and would later direct Fifty Shades Darker and Fifty Shades Freed, the sequels to the global hit Fifty Shades of Grey. The sequels combined to gross $714 million worldwide.

• He also directed episodes of Billions, Hannibal and Wayward Pines, as well as House of Cards.

• Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the loss of James Foley. RIP.