Wicker Man sequel director Justin Hardy dies aged 61

British filmmaker Justin Hardy, who helmed the sequel to his father Robin's cult classic "The Wicker Man," has died at the age of 61. His family confirmed his passing on Friday night following a heart attack, describing him as a man "of boundless creativity" and "so full of life right to the end."

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a man of family, of boundless creativity and so full of life right to the end

Hardy, a writer and director nominated for both Bafta and Emmy awards, was also recognized for his 2024 documentary "Children of the Wicker Man." This film, made with his brother Dominic, explored the legacy of their father's iconic 1973 horror film. He had recently finished production on "Wrath of the Gods," the concluding chapter of the "Wicker Man" trilogy, which was scheduled for its premiere later this month.

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devastated

Throughout his career, Hardy contributed to various historical documentaries and television series for major broadcasters like the BBC, Channel 4, and CNN. His notable works include "Princes In The Tower," "Trafalgar Battle Surgeon," "The Relief Of Belsen," and "Spanish Flu: The Forgotten Fallen."

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heartbroken

His family expressed devastation and heartbreak over his death, lamenting that Hardy would not witness the premiere of "Wrath of the Gods." His brother Dominic remembered Justin as having "an incredible appetite for life" and a "larger-than-life presence." Dominic also praised his brother's final film as "incredibly beautiful," noting it brought him "great satisfaction" to create new work. Hardy is survived by his wife Larissa and their four children.

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an incredible appetite for life