In Memoriam: Susan Senk, Esteemed Entertainment Publicist, Passes Away at 75
Susan Senk, a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, has passed away at the age of 75. Her legacy includes significant contributions to film marketing, notably during her tenure at Vestron Pictures and Columbia TriStar.
Senk’s death occurred on Saturday in Manhattan, as confirmed by her publicist. Notably, she demonstrated remarkable resilience, living for 17 ½ years after undergoing a heart transplant.
A Career that Spanned Industries
Susan’s journey began in the music sector, where she gained invaluable experience before shifting her focus to film publicity. She honed her craft by studying at the University of Maryland and Boston University.
Her career took off when she became part of the original start-up team at Vestron Video in Stamford, Connecticut. In this role, she later moved to London, serving as Vice President of Creative Services for Vestron International. In London, Senk played a pivotal role in expanding the company into international markets, directing marketing strategies for video releases.
Achievements in Film Publicity
Upon her return to the United States, Senk took on the role of Vice President of Publicity and Promotion at Vestron Pictures, where she was instrumental in crafting release and awards campaigns. Her notable work on the 1987 film Dirty Dancing was particularly significant; the film earned over $213 million worldwide, becoming the highest-grossing independent film at the time and winning an Academy Award for Best Original Song for “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life.”
Her expertise continued to flourish as she became Vice President of International Publicity and Promotion for Columbia TriStar Film Distributors International in Los Angeles, also serving as a unit publicist for the acclaimed film Glengarry Glen Ross in 1992. In 1996, she established her own public relations firm, Susan Senk PR, in New York City.
A Lasting Impact on the Industry
Over the last decade of her career, Senk served as an international festival consultant for Sony Pictures International Releasing, managing and promoting over 400 film campaigns, showcasing her enduring influence in the industry.
Her achievements did not go unrecognized; she was a longtime member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and had previously been involved with the Recording Academy.
Remembering Susan Senk
Susan Senk is survived by her sister and business partner, Linda, her brother-in-law Scott, and her beloved dog, OP. In honor of her memory, those wishing to pay tribute can contribute to the Camp Sloane YMCA Susan Senk Memorial Fund.