Biography
Producing numerous programs for the ITV network, Lew Grade ranked among British television's driving forces during the '60s and '70s, and through his Associated Television company was responsible for such major hits as
The Saint,
Thunderbirds,
The Muppet Show, and the long-running soap opera
Coronation Street. His 1977 television miniseries
Jesus of Nazareth received international acclaim. Through his Associated Communications Corporation, Grade oversaw the production of such internationally popular feature films as
The Exorcist (1973),
On Golden Pond (1981),
Sophie's Choice (1982), and the early Muppet movies. As with many moguls, Grade understood the desires of mainstream audiences. Grade entered the entertainment industry performing in music hall variety shows. When music hall ceased to be popular, Grade founded a theatrical agency with his brother, Leslie Grade. As an agent, Grade represented such powerhouses as
Laurence Olivier,
John Gielgud, and
Ralph Richardson. Grade became a producer in the early '60s. ~ Sandra Brennan, All Movie Guide