James Foley, the visionary director behind some of the most memorable films and television series over the past three decades, passed away on May 6, 2025, at the age of 71. His death, attributed to a prolonged battle with brain cancer, marks the end of a remarkable career that has left an indelible mark on both the cinematic and television worlds. Foley’s death is not only a loss to the entertainment industry but also a reminder of the power of storytelling to reflect the complexities of human nature and emotions.
Foley was best known for his direction of the 1992 film Glengarry Glen Ross, a powerful drama based on David Mamet’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play. The film starred an ensemble cast, including Al Pacino, Jack Lemmon, and Kevin Spacey, and became one of the most iconic films of the 1990s. It resonated with audiences due to its sharp dialogue, intense performances, and exploration of corporate greed and cutthroat competition. The film’s enduring impact is largely due to Foley’s direction, which brought Mamet’s blistering script to life in a way that captivated viewers and earned widespread critical acclaim.
In addition to his work in film, Foley’s contributions to television cemented his legacy as one of the most important directors of his generation. One of his most notable achievements was his direction of the groundbreaking political drama House of Cards, which debuted in 2013. The series, which starred Kevin Spacey and Robin Wright, was a critical and commercial success and was praised for its bold storytelling, intricate character development, and exploration of power and ambition in American politics. Foley’s direction of House of Cards brought a cinematic quality to television, with its rich visual style, meticulously crafted storytelling, and exploration of morally ambiguous characters. The series became one of the defining shows of the streaming era, and Foley’s work on the project earned him a devoted fanbase and solidified his reputation as one of television’s greatest directors.
Born on December 28, 1953, in New York City, Foley was raised in a family that appreciated the arts. His mother was a former teacher, and his father was an architect, both of whom instilled in him a love for storytelling and creativity. Foley’s early years in New York City were marked by his fascination with cinema, which led him to pursue a career in filmmaking. He went on to study at the University of Michigan, where he was exposed to a wide range of cultural and intellectual influences. It was during this time that he realized filmmaking was his true calling. After graduating, he moved to Los Angeles to further hone his skills, enrolling at the prestigious University of Southern California’s School of Cinematic Arts. There, he studied the technical aspects of filmmaking while also developing a deep understanding of narrative structure and emotional depth—skills that would define his work for the years to come.
Foley’s career began in the early 1980s, and by the mid-1980s, he had already made a name for himself as a talented director with a keen eye for character-driven stories. His 1986 film At Close Range, starring Sean Penn and Christopher Walken, was a critical success and showcased his ability to navigate complex family dynamics and emotional turmoil. The film was praised for its understated yet powerful direction, and it quickly became clear that Foley had a rare ability to draw out intense performances from his actors while maintaining a deep focus on the emotional stakes of the story.
Following this success, Foley continued to work on a variety of film projects, each one reinforcing his reputation as a director with a unique ability to explore the complexities of human relationships. Glengarry Glen Ross (1992) became the highlight of his career, but his work continued to evolve as he moved into the world of television. In the early 2000s, Foley directed several episodes of The Newsroom, Aaron Sorkin’s critically acclaimed series about the behind-the-scenes world of a fictional cable news network. Foley’s work on The Newsroom further demonstrated his ability to handle complex, dialogue-heavy material and bring depth to characters in high-stakes environments.
Despite his success, Foley’s career had its ups and downs. The entertainment industry was rapidly changing, and many of his films did not achieve the same level of commercial success as Glengarry Glen Ross. However, his passion for filmmaking and his commitment to storytelling never waned. He continued to direct, produce, and consult on various projects, always looking for ways to innovate and engage his audience. His persistence and dedication to the craft of filmmaking earned him respect among his peers, and he remained an influential figure in the industry, particularly when it came to directing television series.
In 2013, Foley was tapped to direct several episodes of House of Cards, a political thriller that would go on to become one of the most popular and influential series in recent television history. Foley’s work on House of Cards was groundbreaking in its portrayal of power, ambition, and manipulation in the political arena. The series, which explored the dark and treacherous world of Washington, D.C., was praised for its sharp writing, stunning cinematography, and the intricate, morally complex characters at its core. Foley’s direction added a cinematic quality to the series that elevated it beyond typical television fare, making House of Cards a defining show of the streaming era.
Foley’s impact on television extended beyond House of Cards. He directed episodes of Ray Donovan and The Newsroom, two other acclaimed series that demonstrated his range as a director. His ability to craft intimate, character-driven moments while maintaining a taut sense of suspense and tension made him a sought-after director in the world of television. Foley’s ability to capture the human condition and the nuances of complex characters left an indelible mark on both film and television.
Despite his fame, Foley was known for his humility and generosity. Those who worked with him often described him as a dedicated professional with an unwavering commitment to his craft. He was also known for his love of storytelling and his deep appreciation for the artistry of filmmaking. Friends and colleagues have shared their admiration for his extraordinary talent, his dedication to his work, and his personal integrity.
Foley’s battle with brain cancer, which he was diagnosed with in early 2023, was a deeply personal struggle that he largely kept out of the public eye. Despite his illness, Foley continued to work on projects, collaborating with his colleagues remotely and maintaining his passion for filmmaking. His determination and work ethic during this challenging time earned him even more respect from those who knew him. Foley’s death leaves a void in the world of filmmaking, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of directors, writers, and actors.
James Foley is survived by his wife, children, and many close friends and colleagues who admired him not only for his professional achievements but also for his personal integrity. His death marks the end of a remarkable career, but his work will continue to influence and inspire for years to come. His films and television series, including Glengarry Glen Ross and House of Cards, will remain staples of modern cinema and television, serving as a testament to his skill, vision, and passion for storytelling.
In the words of Kevin Spacey, who worked with Foley on House of Cards, “James Foley was a master storyteller whose work will live on forever.” Al Pacino, who starred in Glengarry Glen Ross, called Foley “one of the great directors of our time, whose vision and artistry shaped the very fabric of American cinema.” As the world mourns the loss of James Foley, it does so with gratitude for his contributions to the entertainment industry and for the enduring legacy of his work. His influence will continue to resonate for years to come, reminding us of the power of storytelling to illuminate the complexities of life, love, and ambition.
