NEWSOscar-Nominated Director Peter Yates Dies at 81
Jan. 10 2011, Published 5:52 a.m. ET
Legendary Hollywood director Peter Yates, most acclaimed for the 1960's cop drama Bullitt starring the late Steve McQueen, passed away Sunday at the age of 81. The director had been battling a long-term illness.
Peter also directed Robert Redford in the 1972 classic The Hot Rock, The Deep in 1977, Breaking Away in 1979 and the 1983 Oscar-nominated drama The Dresser.
He was nominated for four Oscars in his career — two as director and two as producer, for Breaking Away and The Dresser.
Peter also directed three actors to Oscar nominations Barbara Barrie, Best Supporting Actress in Breaking Away, and Tom Courtenay/Albert Finney for Best Actor in The Dresser.
In the latter part of his career he turned to the small screen, directing TV adaptations of Cervantes' Don Quixote and John Knowles' A Separate Piece, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
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Peter is survived by his wife, Virginia Pope, and his two children. The family plans to hold a private funeral.
In memory of Peter, take a look back at the famous car chase scene from Bullitt.
