'Band of Brothers' and 'Wish You Were Here' director David Leland dies at 82 on Christmas Eve

LONDON, UK: David Leland, the legendary director of powerful series, including ‘Wish You Were Here,’ ‘The Borgias,’ and ‘Band of Brothers’ has died.

The filmmaker died on Christmas Eve, December 24, according to his agents Casarotto and Ramsay & Associates, as per Variety.

Piers Brosnan on David Leland's role in his young career

He provided the initial theater opportunity to former 'James Bond,' star Pierce Brosnan, in the British premiere of Tennessee Williams' 'The Red Devil Battery Sign.'

"David Leland holds a significant place in my heart. He gave me my break as an actor in Tennessee Williams' play 'The Red Devil Battery Sign.' I was just out of Drama Center, where David was also an alum," Brosnan wrote in his tribute.

“It was the thrill of my young lifetime to be cast as McCabe, working with David and Tennessee. David will forever be an essential part of my story and of all who knew and loved him,” he added.

Numerous other stars pay tribute to the critically acclaimed filmmaker

Other icons also honored the esteemed filmmaker. Tim Roth expressed, "David was present at the inception of this incredible journey. He transformed my life, and I hold deep affection for him. He'll always be a part of me."

Terry Gilliam said, “The loss of David is very sad. As a friend, and as a writer-director, he was always solidly grounded… invariably sensitive and ruthlessly honest. His 1987 film, ‘Wish You Were Here,’ is still one of my all-time favorite British films.”

Liam Neeson, the 'Taken' actor, added, "David was a dream to work with. He was a real collaborator; he genuinely loved and admired actors. We formed a close bond. I loved his mischievous sense of humor. You are always in my heart, old friend. See you down the road."

Leland is survived by his wife Sabrina, four daughters, a son, and six grandchildren.

He will always be remembered for his notable television contributions, including directing the episode 'Bastogne' for the HBO miniseries 'Band of Brothers' (2001), for which he received an Emmy Award for his direction.

Additionally, he left an impact as the director and writer of Showtime's 'The Borgias,' starring Jeremy Irons. Leland also made a comeback as a co-showrunner for the second season.