The film community mourns the loss of Theo Kingma, who died unexpectedly on March 21, 2025. Aged 58, Kingma passed away at his home in Los Angeles.
Deadline reported that Kingma, the former HFPA president, unexpectedly died at his residence, leaving behind a legacy of significant contributions to the film industry and charitable initiatives.
Born in Amsterdam on February 25, 1967, Theo Kingma's journey to Hollywood was as dramatic as the films he adored.
Initially working as a projectionist in Amsterdam’s cinemas, he later participated in the production of Dutch films and the Robert Altman movie, Vincent & Theo.
The experience on Vincent & Theo propelled Kingma to move to the glamorous world of Hollywood in 1989. He continued his engagement with the film industry as a correspondent for the Dutch magazine, Hitkrant, reporting on behind-the-scenes exclusives.
Joining the Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA) in 1992 was a pivotal moment in Kingma's career. His membership began an enduring relationship where he eventually rose to influential roles, including multiple stints on HFPA's Board of Directors.
Kingma's leadership qualities shone brightly as he became the president of HFPA from 2013 to 2015. During his tenure, he resolved a notable dispute between HFPA and dick clark productions concerning the production of the Golden Globes, ensuring the show’s continued success.
Kingma also introduced HFPA’s participation at Comic-Con, adding a new dimension to the association by organizing roundtable interviews with high-profile figures in the film industry. This initiative further enhanced HFPA's visibility and engagement with broader entertainment audiences.
Beyond his HFPA roles, Kingma was deeply committed to philanthropy. His vision led to significant HFPA initiatives, including a generous $2 million donation to Los Angeles City College's Cinema and Television program, benefiting countless aspiring filmmakers.
He served diligently on the board of directors for the Los Angeles City College Foundation for several years, advocating for education and the arts. Kingma's influence extended even further when, in 2017, he took on the role of CEO at Film Expo Group.
An avid photographer, Kingma captured vibrant scenes and moments at numerous Hollywood events. His photography, cherished by many, found audiences worldwide through publications across multiple countries.
Continuing his active participation in the industry, Kingma remained a dedicated voter for the Golden Globes and was a founding member of the Golden Globe Foundation. His efforts were instrumental in elevating the standards and reach of the awards.
Kingma's dedication to the freedom of artistic expression was evident in his passionate statement during the 2015 Golden Globes broadcast: "The freedom of artistic expression… is a beacon across the globe… We stand united everywhere from North Korea to Paris," he said.
This was in the wake of the terror attack at Charlie Hebdo, emphasizing the significance of freedom of speech and the protection of journalists.
His unexpected death leaves not just a void in Hollywood, but a legacy of impactful leadership, steadfast commitment to philanthropy, and unwavering support for artistic freedom. Theo Kingma's contributions to the film industry and beyond will not be forgotten.