The Film Industry Bids Farewell to Ray Chan,
a Mastermind of Movie Magic

Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman Honor Ray Chan,
Marvel’s Beloved Art Director

Summary

• The film industry is mourning the loss of Ray Chan, a monumental figure in production design known for his role in shaping Marvel’s cinematic universe.
• Marvel Studios announced his recent passing.
• Chan’s legacy includes his instrumental work on films like Avengers: Infinity War, Avengers: Endgame, and Deadpool & Wolverine.
• Ryan Reynolds, the producer and actor of Deadpool & Wolverine, paid tribute to Chan’s exceptional creativity and influence on the film.
• Shawn Levy, the writer-director of Deadpool & Wolverine, emphasized Chan’s extraordinary talent and positive impact.
• Chan also collaborated with renowned directors on films like National Treasure and Blood Diamond.

The film industry is mourning the loss of Ray Chan, a monumental figure in production design, known for his pivotal role in shaping the visual grandeur of Marvel’s cinematic universe. His recent passing was announced by Marvel Studios.

Chan’s legacy includes his instrumental work on films that have not only defined a genre but have also set new standards in cinematic storytelling, such as Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame, along with his latest project, Deadpool & Wolverine. Ryan Reynolds, the producer and leading actor of Deadpool & Wolverine, paid tribute to Chan’s exceptional creativity and influence on the film, describing him as an irreplaceable creative force who was integral to the movie’s creation. According to Reynolds, Chan’s ability to conjure entire worlds from thin air, in close collaboration with every department, showcased his unparalleled talent.

Shawn Levy, the writer-director of Deadpool & Wolverine, expressed the profound impact of Chan’s loss, emphasizing not only his extraordinary talent as a production designer but also the positive, lasting impressions he made on those around him.

Chan’s breadth of work extended beyond the Marvel universe. He collaborated with renowned directors like Ridley Scott, Michael Apted, and Alfonso Cuarón, contributing to a diverse portfolio of films including National Treasure, Nanny McPhee, and Blood Diamond. His excellence was recognized by the Art Directors Guild with two awards, reflecting the respect and admiration of his peers.

Kevin Feige and Louis D’Esposito, of Marvel Studios, commemorated Chan as a beloved friend and collaborator, whose creative vision and meticulous attention to detail elevated every project he touched. They remembered him as a kind, generous soul who had a unique ability to bring beauty and life to his work.

Ray Chan’s career with Marvel Studios began in 2013, leaving an indelible mark on some of the most iconic films of our time, like Guardians of the Galaxy and Spider-Man: Far From Home, as well as on television with The Falcon and The Winter Soldier.

Tributes from notable figures such as Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman have flooded in, reflecting on Chan’s unmatched talent and humanity, commemorating the monumental contributions Chan made to the visual storytelling of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.  Reynolds remarked on Chan’s rare combination of artistic brilliance and genuine kindness, making him a cherished colleague and friend.

Following the announcement of Chan’s death, Reynold’s and Jackman expressed their deep sorrow over the loss of a revered collaborator on “Deadpool & Wolverine.” Marvel Studios credits Chan with a pivotal role in crafting the Marvel Cinematic Universe since his involvement beginning with “Thor: Dark World” in 2013.

Reynolds, in a heartfelt tribute on X, spoke to Chan’s irreplaceable artistry and humaneness, emphasizing his integral role in the creation of “Deadpool & Wolverine,” and reflecting on their last interactions during the film’s reshoots earlier this month.

Director Shawn Levy also spoke to Chan’s talent and the personal impact he had on those he worked with, noting the loss of not just an incredible production designer but a positive force in the film community.

Marvel Studios heads Kevin Feige and Louis D’Esposito memorialized Chan as a cherished colleague whose keen vision and meticulous craftsmanship enhanced every film he touched, remembering him as a person of kindness and generosity.

Beyond his work with Marvel, Chan’s distinguished career included collaborations with esteemed directors such as Ridley Scott and Alfonso Cuarón, on projects ranging from “National Treasure” to “Blood Diamond.” His achievements earned him accolades from his peers, including two awards from the Art Directors Guild.

Ray Chan’s remarkable career leaves behind a rich tapestry of cinematic triumphs. He leaves behind his wife, Lindsay, and his children, Caspar and Sebastian, along with an industry forever influenced by his work and a community of colleagues and fans who will miss him deeply.