David R. Ellis Dies, 'Snakes on a Plane' Director Mourned
David R. Ellis, director of "Snakes on a Plane," has died over the weekend at the age of 60.
The former stuntman-turned-director died in South Africa, but no cause of death has been released, according to Deadline.
His manager confirmed news about Ellis' death on Monday after the filmmaker's body was discovered in a hotel room.
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The director was in Johannesburg working on his latest project "Kite," a remake of the Japanese anime film.
Before becoming and stuntman and then a director, Ellis was an actor. In 1975, he made his debut to the big screen alongside Kurt Russell in "The Strongest Man in the World."
Elllis went on to serve as assistant director on "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" as well as "The Matrix Revolutions," before making his debut as a director.
In his first helming effort, Ellis directed "Homeward Bound 2: Lost in San Francisco," but is better known for directing 2002's "Final Destination 2."
Other credits directorial credits of Ellis' include "Cellular," "Snakes on a Plane," and "Shark Night." The director was slated to helm future projects including "War Monkeys" as well as Lionsgate's "Humpty Dumpty."
Those mourning the director on Tuesday include Samuel L. Jackson who starred in 2006's "Snakes on a Plane."
"So sad to hear of David R Ellis passing," the actor wrote on Twitter. "So talented, so kind, such a Good Friend. He'll be missed. Gone too soon!"
Jackson was also slated to star in "Kite."
Actress AJ Cook added to Twitter, "My heart goes out to the family of David R. Ellis. Such a positive, passionate man. It was an honor to work with him."
"R.I.P. David R. Ellis," wrote AADowd.
John posted, "R.I.P. David R. Ellis, director of SNAKES ON A PLANE and other movies that are better than you think."
Ellis leaves behind his wife and three children, according to BBC.
