Kieran Turner, Celebrated Filmmaker of ‘Wallflowers,’ Dies at 56

Kieran Turner, a renowned documentary filmmaker known for the web series “Wallflowers,” passed away at 56 on December 23. He dedicated his career to telling LGBTQ+ stories through various projects including “Jobriath A.D.” and his work at Cinemarket. He was actively developing a documentary on theater’s response to the AIDS epidemic at the time of his death, leaving behind a legacy of impactful storytelling.

Kieran Turner, the passionate documentary filmmaker behind the poignant web series “Wallflowers,” passed away on December 23 in West Hollywood at the age of 56 after a courageous battle with cancer. His death was confirmed by Christy Grosz from CLG3 Communications. “Wallflowers,” which he wrote and produced, aired for two seasons from 2013 to 2014, showcasing four friends navigating the complexities of dating through a support group, and it now streams on Dekkoo.

Through his production company, Eight Track Tape Productions, Turner was dedicated to telling LGBTQ+ stories, both in fictional narratives and documentaries. Among his notable works was “Jobriath A.D.,” a documentary that captured the life of the glam rock artist Jobriath who succumbed to AIDS. His ambitious spirit extended beyond personal projects as he played a crucial role at Cinemarket, where he helped finance significant films like “Terminator Salvation” and “Love & Mercy.”

Turner’s cinematic journey began with his graduate thesis film, “24 Nights,” which he directed, wrote, and produced while at New York University, later securing distribution from TLA Releasing. His talent shone through in his screenplay “Black Dogs,” which made it to the 2022 Black List and is currently in development. Until his passing, he poured his energy into a documentary titled “Ghost Lights: Reclaiming Theater in the Age of AIDS,” reflecting his commitment to impactful storytelling.

Kieran Turner leaves behind his cousins on the East Coast and a supportive chosen family of friends who cherished his vision and creativity. His legacy lives on through his work, shaping narratives that celebrate identity and resilience. As his friends remember him, they hold tight to the stories he brought to life, a testament to his indelible mark on documentary filmmaking.

Kieran Turner was a recognized figure in documentary filmmaking, particularly noted for his contributions to LGBTQ+ storytelling. His web series “Wallflowers” captured the essence of friendship and the quest for love among its characters, resonating with audiences seeking representation. Moreover, Turner’s independent production company focused on creating narratives that reflected the experiences of marginalized communities, ensuring that their stories found an audience. His projects highlighted both personal and broader societal issues, showcasing his talent and passion for filmmaking.

Kieran Turner’s rich legacy lives on through his groundbreaking work, particularly in the realm of LGBTQ+ narratives. His innovative approach to storytelling, exemplified through projects like “Wallflowers” and “Jobriath A.D.,” underlines his dedication to shedding light on underrepresented voices. As the film community mourns his passing, his contributions will continue to inspire future generations of filmmakers committed to truth and representation in media.

Original Source: variety.com