Mickey Cottrell, the beloved publicist known for his unwavering support of independent films and the talent behind them, passed away on Monday at the age of 79. His sister, Suzy Cottrell, confirmed the news, sharing that he peacefully left this world at the Motion Picture Hospital in Woodland Hills.
Cottrell had spent time in Arkansas with his sister to recover from a stroke he had suffered in 2016. However, he returned to Los Angeles in 2019 to be closer to his beloved film industry.
On Facebook, Suzy fondly remembered her brother, describing him as “adorable, fun, critical, foodie, particular, brilliant, and loving.” She also shared that Mickey passed away with a smile on his face. It’s clear that his vibrant spirit touched the lives of many, and he will be deeply missed.
A True Champion of Filmmakers and Actors
Mickey Cottrell was an iconic figure at film festivals, known for his generosity and sassy storytelling. He was not just a publicist; he was a mentor, a source of inspiration, and the life of the party. During the 1990s, he hosted star-studded Sundance parties that became the talk of the town. His expertise in gay Hollywood history was unparalleled, making him a valuable resource for many filmmakers.
Cottrell’s passion for film extended beyond public relations. He also had a knack for acting, having portrayed various supporting characters in notable films such as Gus Van Sant’s “My Own Private Idaho” and “Drugstore Cowboy.” He even made appearances in popular TV series like “Star Trek: The Next Generation” and “Star Trek: Voyager.”
Collaborations and Highlights
Throughout his career, Mickey Cottrell worked with numerous talented filmmakers, including Percy Adlon, Ira Sachs, Phillip Noyce, Sophia Takal, Andrew Haigh, Jonathan Caouette, and Wim Wenders, among others. He played a crucial role in promoting films like “Bagdad Cafe,” “Keep the Lights On,” “Dead Calm,” and “Wings of Desire.” Additionally, he handled publicity for titles such as “The Quiet American,” “Weekend,” “I Am Divine,” and “One False Move,” to name a few.
A Unique Approach
In a 2010 profile by Ella Taylor in the L.A. Weekly, Mickey Cottrell was hailed as a refreshing departure from the sleek, modern breed of PR professionals. His authenticity and dedication to his craft set him apart from the rest.
Variety’s Todd McCarthy also mentioned Cottrell in a 1996 article about the Sundance Film Festival, recalling that he was one of the few publicists from Hollywood who consistently attended and promoted films at the event.
Leaving a Lasting Legacy
Mickey Cottrell is survived by two sisters, Gigi and Suzy Cottrell, as well as his nephew, Jeremy Allen, and great-nephew, Gregory Allen. His impact on the independent film industry will be felt for years to come, and his memory will live on in the hearts of those he touched.
To learn more about Mickey Cottrell’s remarkable journey as a publicist, you can visit F5mag.com.