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BORN
1951
DIED
2025
Greg Cannom Obituary
Greg Cannom, a Hollywood makeup artist who won five Oscars for his innovative work, died in May 2025 at the age of 73.
Cannom got his start in movies in the 1970s, doing uncredited makeup work in movies like Brian De Palma's "The Fury" and the fringe horror movie "The Incredible Melting Man." By the 1980s, he was working on more notable projects, including the video for Michael Jackson's "Thriller," films like "Cocoon" and "The Lost Boys," and others. Over the years, his work earned him 10 Academy Award nominations, winning four – for "Bram Stoker's Dracula," "Mrs. Doubtfire," "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button," and "Vice" – as well as a special Technical Achievement Award in 2005 for innovating new prosthetic technologies. He also received nominations for "Hook," "Hoffa," "Roommates," "Titanic," Bicentennial Man," and "A Beautiful Mind," along with several Emmy nominations and many other awards and recognitions.
Rick Baker, widely considered one of the greatest makeup artists in Hollywood history, had praise for Cannom on Instagram. "Greg started with me in the 70s. His first job with me was the sequel to It's Alive, where he not only assisted me in making the baby but also played one of the baby monsters. When I moved out of my first garage workshop Greg moved in. When I out grew my first industrial unit Greg took that over. His work will be remembered long after his passing. Sad news indeed. RIP Greg you and your work will be missed."
By Eric San Juan
(Image: Willy Sanjuan/Invision/AP)
3 Entries
Douglas W. Johnson
June 4, 2025
Many people didn't know that Greg first developed his talents and abilities while attending Cypress College and while working at the Calico Log Ride at Knott's Berry Farm during the early 1970's. Greg created or was involved with many of the original "scary" sets at the Log Ride during the annual Halloween events. His creativity was enormous.
Greg was an incredible and talented individual. Many of us who worked the Log Ride during the time Greg was also employed will remember Greg as a very kind and good person. Greg will be missed by many. He was a good guy.
Dougwood
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RB
May 16, 2025
An amazingly talented babe up artist who had a long and successful career. His work was seen for many years in movies and videos. An icon in the industry. Sincere condolences to the Cannom family. So very sorry for your loss. May God be with you in your time of loss.
Tony Spirito
May 14, 2025
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