'Pink Panther' director Blake Edwards has died. He was 88.
The American filmmaker passed away at a Santa Monica health centre on Wednesday due to complications from pneumonia. Members of his family, including his wife Julie Andrews, were at his side.
His publicist added that he had been receiving treatment in hospital for two weeks prior to his death.
Edward directed a number of classic films, including 'The Pink Panther' series, Dudley Moore's '10', 'Victor/Victoria' and the Audrey Hepburn classic 'Breakfast at Tiffany's'. For the 'Pink Panther' movies, it was Edwards who used all his charm to persuade Peter Sellers to take on the part of the clumsy Frenchman, Inspector Clouseau.
Edwards was originally an actor, appearing in over 30 films. However, he eventually tried his hand at screenwriting and directing.
His first big success came through directing 1959's 'Operation Petticoat', which starred Cary Grant and Tony Curtis.
Before his death, he was working on a 'Pink Panther' Broadway musical.
His publicist said, "His heart was as big as his talent. He was an Academy Award winner in all respects."
Edwards received an honorary Oscar in 2004.
He is survived by Andrews and his four children - two of which come from his first marriage to Patricia Walker.
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