Martin Starger, a renowned producer in the entertainment industry, passed away at the age of 92 in his Los Angeles home. He was born on May 8, 1932, to Rose and Isidore Starger in the Bronx, New York. Starger received his Bachelor of Science degree in Motion Picture Techniques from City College, where he graduated with cum laude honors. His career in the film industry began when he was drafted into Army service in 1953 and assigned to the Signal Corps Motion Picture Location. Starger’s work in the Army involved various aspects of motion picture production, including writing, directing, and editing documentaries and features.
After his time in the Army, Starger worked at the advertising agency BBDO in New York before joining the ABC television network. He quickly rose through the ranks at ABC, serving as vice president of programs from 1969-1972. In a groundbreaking move, Starger became the first president of ABC Entertainment, a newly created position, from 1972-1975. During his tenure, ABC saw significant success with projects such as the Movie of the Week, miniseries like Roots and Rich Man, Poor Man, and hit series like Marcus Welby, M.D. and Happy Days. Starger’s leadership at ABC helped the network establish itself as a major player in the television industry.
Following his time at ABC, Martin Starger transitioned into producing films and theater. He worked on a variety of projects, including Robert Altman’s Nashville, which he executive produced alongside Jerry Weintraub. This collaboration launched Starger’s producing career and led to partnerships with figures like Sir Lew Grade and the founding of his production company, Marstar Productions. Throughout his career, Starger worked on a wide range of films, from Ingmar Bergman’s Autumn Sonata to The Muppet Movie and Sophie’s Choice. His contributions to the entertainment industry were varied and significant, leaving a lasting impact on film and television.
Martin Starger’s niece, casting director Ilene Starger, remembered him as a brilliant and remarkable individual with impeccable taste in projects. She noted that he played a fatherly role in her life following the sudden death of her own father when she was a teenager. Starger’s legacy lives on through the numerous films and television programs he helped bring to life, leaving a mark on the industry that will not be forgotten. As a trailblazer in both television and film, Martin Starger’s name will always be synonymous with creativity and excellence in entertainment.