Erotic Filmmaker Zalman King Dies

SANTA MONICA. Calif. — Erotic filmmaker Zalman King has died.

Best known for films "Nine 1/2 Weeks," "Red Shoe Diaries," and “Wild Orchid,” the producer, writer, director died after a six-year battle with cancer. He was 70 years old.

King studied Stanley Kubrick’s making of “Eyes Wide Shot” to learn how to shoot eroticism, said son-in-law, Allison Burnett.

The filmmaker's 1992 Showtime cable hit, "Red Shoe Diaries," narrated by actor David Duchovny, was descibed by Entertainment Weekly as "a collection of Penthouse Forum letters turned into video vignettes."

"Zalman was an extraordinary man and artist, more complex and humane than those who knew him only from afar could possibly imagine," Burnett said.

He added that King had a singular, unique vision and a visual signature that was all his own.

Longtime friend, actor Charlie Sheen wrote on his Facebook page Friday, "The world lost a brilliant and noble soul today. My dear friend of 40 years, Zalman King, just lost his battle with cancer. Fought like a recon Marine til the bitter end. Say a prayer for his amazing wife Pat and their lovely daughters. Safe travels my friend."

King is survived by his wife and their two daughters, screenwriter Chloe King and designer and painter Gillian Lefkovitz.

Related:  

Copyright © 2025 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

Isa Bella, Selena Ivy Topline 'Lesbian Sex 28'

Isa Bella and Selena Ivy headline the latest release from Girlfriends Films, titled “Lesbian Sex 28.”

Catherine Knight Stars in Latest From Brazzers

Catherine Knight stars in the latest release from Brazzers, titled "GRWM (To Fuck)."

Elegant Angel Premieres Nicole Kitt Showcase 'Cats Eye'

Nicole Kitt gets the spotlight in a new four-part showcase release from Elegant Angel.

Private Releases 'The Love Hotel 2'

Private has released “The Love Hotel 2,” directed by Dave Menich.

Ember Fiera, Jesse Pony Headline 'TS Girls Do It Best' Sequel From TransSensual

Ember Fiera and Jesse Pony topline the sequel to “TS Girls Do It Best” from Mile High Media studio imprint TransSensual.

Khloe Kapri, Melissa Stratton Topline 'Lesbian Trainer 3' From Sweetheart Video

Khloe Kapri and Melissa Stratton headline the third volume of “Lesbian Trainer” from Mile High Media studio imprint Sweetheart Video.

Gal Ritchie Toplines Dorcel's 'Pigalle'

2025 XMAs winner Gal Ritchie stars with Clara Mia in the latest feature from Dorcel, titled “Pigalle.”

Penthouse Names Sharna Beckman July's 'Pet of the Month'

Penthouse Magazine has named Australian model Sharna Beckman as Pet of the Month for July.

Adult Time Names Alison Rey as Newest Brand Ambassador

Adult Time has named Alison Rey as the studio's newest brand ambassador.

Violet Myers Stars in Latest From Brazzers

Reigning XMAs Premium Social Media Creator of the Year Violet Myers stars with Mick Blue in the latest release from Brazzers, titled "Anal Exam."

Show More