ATLANTA, GA – The Georgia film community is mourning the loss of Steve Mench, a pivotal figure in the state’s burgeoning movie industry, who tragically died in a plane crash off the Florida Gulf Coast. Mench, who had been at the helm of Tyler Perry Studios for the last eight years, was piloting his own single-engine aircraft when it crashed about 60 miles north of Tampa on Friday night. The Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board are currently investigating the incident.
Mench’s influence on Georgia’s film industry cannot be overstated. He was a staunch advocate for the state’s film tax credit and played a crucial role in attracting film and television production to Georgia, which has become a major hub for the entertainment industry. His efforts helped transform Georgia into a preferred location for filmmakers, contributing significantly to its economic growth.
Tributes have been pouring in from across the state, highlighting Mench’s contributions and the void his passing leaves in the industry. Lee Thomas, Director of the Georgia Film Office, noted that Mench was a fixture in the film community long before his leadership role at Tyler Perry Studios. “Georgia’s film community has suffered a huge loss with the passing of Steve Mench,” she said, emphasizing his instrumental role in the growth of studios across the state.
Governor Brian Kemp also paid tribute to Mench, acknowledging the positive impact of his work on Georgia’s economy and the opportunities he created for its residents. “He was a good man, and his achievements made our state better,” Kemp said.
Mench’s career in the film industry began decades ago when he worked as Vice President of Sales at Feature Systems, one of the few equipment suppliers in Atlanta at the time. His vision and leadership were key in expanding the state’s capabilities and reputation as a film production powerhouse.
The loss of Mench is felt deeply not just in the professional sphere but also personally by those who knew him. His colleagues and friends remember him as a dedicated and passionate leader who was always pushing the boundaries of what was possible in Georgia’s film industry.
As the investigation into the crash continues, the legacy of Steve Mench remains a testament to his dedication and passion for the film industry. His work has left an indelible mark on Georgia, and his contributions will continue to influence the state’s film landscape for years to come.