Legendary surf filmmaker Jack McCoy has passed away at the age of 76.
Best known for his ability to tell stories through surfing, Jack was responsible for the creation of a number of modern classics which were central to so many surfers’ childhoods and still remain relevant now. His catalogue of work included films such as The Green Iguana, The Billabong Challenge as well as The Occumentary and Blue Horizon – both of which were remastered and taken on tour by Jack in the past couple of years despite significant health issues.
Born in Los Angeles, Jack was the son of a radio and TV show host. He began surfing when the family moved to Hawaii in the 1950s and took up photography after relocating to Australia in 1970. Teaming up with Dick Hoole, he then shifted to cinematography to produce his first surf movie, Tubular Swells, in 1976. Over the following 4 decades he has established himself as one of the sport’s leading cinematographers and story-tellers.
Prior to taking Blue Horizon on tour a couple of months ago, I spoke with Jack who shared some of his favourite moments while working with Andy Irons.
“As a filmmaker and storyteller, I was always looking for those golden moments, unique happenings and conversations which capture a particular moment in time and tell the story unlike anything else,” Jack told me.
Tributes have begun to pour in on social media for McCoy. Surf historian Matt Warshaw wrote; “Jack McCoy’s work existed on a different artistic plane altogether.”
He was a larger than life character with a kind heart and time for everyone. The kind of guy who you’d love to share a cup of tea or a drink with and spend hours listening to his stories.
Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time.
Surfing has today lost one of its greats. Rest easy Jack.
