It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of George Folsey Jr., a legendary Hollywood editor and producer whose work shaped both cinema and music history. While Folsey is celebrated for his contributions to films like Animal House, The Blues Brothers, and Coming to America, for us, his name will forever be synonymous with Michael Jackson’s groundbreaking Thriller music video—a cultural milestone that changed the face of music forever. George Folsey Jr. passed away at the age of 85 on December 29, 2024, as confirmed by his son, Ryan Folsey, on social media.
Folsey Jr. came from a family of cinematic legends. His father, George Folsey Sr., was a 13-time Oscar-nominated cinematographer known for classics like Meet Me in St. Louis and Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. Following in his father’s footsteps, George Jr. carved his own path in the world of entertainment, but his greatest impact arguably came when he stepped into the world of music videos.
The Thriller That Redefined Music Videos
Of all of George Folsey Jr.’s incredible accomplishments, his work on Michael Jackson’s Thriller stands out as a beacon of creative brilliance. Collaborating with director John Landis, Folsey Jr. helped bring the King of Pop’s cinematic vision to life, editing and producing a 14-minute masterpiece that would become the gold standard for music videos.
Thriller wasn’t just a music video—it was a cultural phenomenon. Folsey’s impeccable editing turned the ambitious project into a seamless blend of storytelling, horror, and jaw-dropping choreography. The iconic transformations, the suspenseful pacing, and that legendary zombie dance owe much of their magic to Folsey’s meticulous craftsmanship. It’s no exaggeration to say that Thriller revolutionized the music industry, turning music videos into a legitimate art form.
For Michael Jackson fans, Thriller is more than a song or a video—it’s an experience, an immortal moment in pop culture.
A Storied Career in Hollywood
Folsey’s illustrious career began in television, with his early work on an episode of The Monkees in 1967. He transitioned to feature films with the Blaxploitation classic Black Caesar (1973) and co-produced and edited Schlock, a low-budget comedy directed by a young John Landis. This collaboration with Landis blossomed into a partnership that produced some of Hollywood’s most beloved comedies, including National Lampoon’s Animal House (1978) and The Blues Brothers (1980).
Beyond his iconic work on Thriller, Folsey brought his editing expertise and creative vision to classics like An American Werewolf in London (1981), Trading Places (1983), and Coming to America (1988), solidifying his reputation as a master storyteller.
A Legacy That Lives On
George Folsey Jr. didn’t just create movies and music videos; he crafted memories that generations of fans will cherish forever. His work on Thriller alone would have been enough to secure his place in pop culture history, but his broader contributions to film and entertainment make him a true legend.
As we remember George Folsey Jr., let’s celebrate his unparalleled talent and his role in bringing to life the iconic moments that continue to inspire millions. His legacy will forever be intertwined with the magic of Thriller and the genius of Michael Jackson.
