In Memoriam: Renowned Illustrator Roger Kastel, Creator of Iconic ‘Jaws’ Poster, Passes Away at 92
Worcester County, Massachusetts – A legendary figure in the cinematic realm bids farewell as acclaimed illustrator Roger Kastel, the artistic genius behind some of the most iconic movie posters in history, has passed away at the age of 92. His death on November 15th was confirmed in an official statement posted on his website.
Born on June 11, 1931, in White Plains, New York, Kastel’s artistic journey began at the Arts Students League in New York City. After serving in the Navy during the Korean War, he ventured into freelance artistry, leaving an indelible mark on the world of illustration.
Among his extensive portfolio of over 1,000 illustrations for various publishers and novels, Kastel’s name became synonymous with masterpieces like the poster for Steven Spielberg’s “Jaws,” featuring the iconic bullet-shaped Great White shark. His artistic prowess extended to works such as John Steinbeck’s “East of Eden” and W.G. Wells’ “The Invisible Man.”
In addition to the unforgettable “Jaws” poster, Kastel contributed his talents to create posters for other renowned films, including “Doctor Faustus,” “The Great Train Robbery,” and “The Empire Strikes Back.”
Drew Struzan, another notable movie poster artist, paid tribute to Kastel, stating, “We lost another creative brother… Roger Kastel, who gave us the iconic Jaws poster among other wonderful pieces of art.”
A longtime member of the Society of Illustrators, Kastel’s artistic legacy is enshrined in the pages of “200 Years of American Illustration” and “The Illustrator in America: 1860-2000.”
Survived by his wife Grace of 66 years, his daughter Beth Krebs and her husband Michael, and his son Matthew Kastel and his wife Karen, Kastel leaves behind a loving family, including grandchildren Jessica and Glen Krebs and Luke and Grant Kastel, as well as his great-grandson Liam Kirk-Krebs.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to The Artists’ Fellowship, Inc., a charitable organization providing assistance to professional artists in times of emergency, disability, or bereavement. The artistic community mourns the loss of a true visionary, leaving behind a legacy that will endure in the annals of cinematic art.
