Adam Somner, Oscar-nominated producer and renowned first assistant director, died on November 27th at the age of 57 from anaplastic thyroid cancer. A cinematic legend, Somner had worked with the greatest of all directors: Steven Spielberg, Martin Scorsese, Ridley Scott, and Paul Thomas Anderson.
Adam Somner was born in the UK and built a career of decades in which he had contributed to over 75 projects including The Wolf of Wall Street, Killers of the Flower Moon, Gladiator, and Licorice Pizza. His ability to balance creative with logistical work earned him the respect of many people. Spielberg says, “Adam Somner wasn’t just my assistant director; he was my partner on set, bringing unmatched dedication and humor to every project.”
Some of his notable credits are West Side Story and Lincoln, which were by Spielberg; The Wolf of Wall Street, by Scorsese; There Will Be Blood, by Anderson; and Black Hawk Down, by Scott. Somner was nominated in 2022 for the production of Licorice Pizza and also won the award for The Revenant from the Directors Guild of America.
Known for his careful preparation and kind nature, Somner was described as having nurtured a collaborative atmosphere on set. Martin Scorsese described him as “a general on the battlefield” whose organizational artistry brought every project to new heights.
Somner is survived by his wife, Carmen Ruiz de Huidobro, his children Olivia and Bosco, and his brother Mark. To honor his legacy, the Directors Guild will establish a scholarship in his name.
Adam Somner’s contributions to film and his commitment to the craft leave a lasting impact on Hollywood, which will surely be there for years to come.
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