The entertainment industry is mourning the loss of veteran sound editor and director R.J. Kizer, who passed away on August 12 at the age of 73. His family confirmed that he died following a battle with glioblastoma.
While Kizer built a massive reputation in Hollywood working on over 100 projects—including major films like Deadpool, Bad Boys for Life, and War for the Planet of the Apes—he also left his mark on the anime landscape. He is remembered by fans of classic science fiction for his sound editing work on the English dub of the 1969 Galaxy Express 999 film. Beyond sound, Kizer’s directorial efforts included Hell Comes to Frogtown and the American-produced footage for the 1985 release of Godzilla.
A highly respected figure in his field, Kizer earned 10 Golden Reel Award nominations from the Motion Picture Sound Editors throughout his storied career. He took home the trophy twice, for his contributions to The Lion King and War for the Planet of the Apes. His commitment to the craft extended to his service on the Motion Picture Academy Sound Branch Executive Committee, where he also functioned as the inaugural Chair of the Sound Branch Museum Subcommittee.
Though no funeral services are scheduled, his family is currently organizing a memorial to honor his life and contributions to cinema.
