Richard Perry, Jane Fonda’s record producer ex behind ‘You’re So Vain’ and other hits, dies at 82
NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Richard Perry, the legendary producer behind some of the most iconic records of the 20th century and Jane Fonda's ex, has died at the age of 82, DailyMail reported.
He died from cardiac arrest on Christmas Eve, Tuesday, in a Los Angeles hospital, his friend Daphna Kastner confirmed. Reflecting on his life, she said: ‘He maximized his time here."
Known for his transformative collaborations with Carly Simon, Barbra Streisand, Rod Stewart, and other music icons, Perry's contributions left an indelible mark on the music industry.
The visionary music producer behind iconic hits
Richard Perry’s illustrious career began in the 1960s. He quickly established himself as a visionary who could masterfully blend genres and elevate artists.
From Carly Simon’s 'You’re So Vain' to Rod Stewart’s 'The Great American Songbook', Perry was celebrated for his ability to craft timeless hits.
He worked with legends like Art Garfunkel, Diana Ross, Ringo Starr, Harry Nilsson ('Without You'), and The Pointer Sisters ('I’m So Excited'), showcasing his versatility across pop, R&B, rock, and country charts.
Barbra Streisand credited Perry with modernizing her sound, particularly through the million-selling album 'Stoney End,' which marked her successful transition into contemporary pop and rock.
Reflecting on their collaboration, Streisand described Perry’s enthusiasm and vision as musically liberating.
Richard Perry's personal and professional connections
Born in New York to musical parents who co-founded Peripole Music, Richard Perry’s journey began as a skilled drummer and oboist.
After studying music and theater at the University of Michigan, he shifted focus to production, partnering with Gary Katz (later known for his work with Steely Dan).
His early projects included Captain Beefheart’s 'Safe As Milk' and Ella Fitzgerald’s 'Ella', featuring innovative covers of Beatles and Smokey Robinson hits.
Beyond his professional accolades, Perry’s personal life also grabbed attention.
He attended iconic events like Otis Redding’s Monterey Pop Festival performance, dated Elizabeth Taylor and Jane Fonda, and hosted music legends such as Paul McCartney and Mick Jagger at his West Hollywood home. Rod Stewart once described Perry’s home as a hub for late-night revelry.
Perry shared an eight-year romance with Fonda before their amicable split in 2017.
Despite parting ways, they maintained a close friendship, with Perry stating, “We’re just starting a new chapter.”
Richard Perry's final years battling Parkinson’s disease
In his last few years, Richard Perry battled Parkinson’s disease. Ben McCarthy, his personal assistant for nearly 30 years, shared with TMZ that even though Perry could no longer speak, he remained in good spirits.
Perry's friend Kastner called him a “father friend” and a godfather figure to her son.
"He was generous, fun, sweet, and made the world a better place," she said, adding further, "The world is a little less sweet without him here, but it’s a little sweeter in heaven."
