Paul Bronfman

Paul Bronfman (May 28, 1957 – February 26, 2025) was a Canadian film and television industry executive and producer.

Early life and education

Born in Montreal, Quebec, Bronfman was the son of Edward Bronfman, co-founder of Edper (later Brookfield Asset Management), and the nephew of Peter Bronfman.^[1][2] His grandfather, Allan Bronfman, was the brother of Seagram founder Samuel Bronfman.^[1] At age 20, Bronfman relocated to Toronto, aiming to develop a career distinct from his family's established reputation.^[1]

Career

Bronfman began his career in the entertainment industry as a roadie for the band April Wine and later worked in post-production at Pathé Sound.^[2] In 1988, he established Comweb Corporation, a holding company for his media ventures.^[1] His first major project was the creation of North Shore Studios in Vancouver in collaboration with producer Stephen Cannell.^[1] The facility later served as a production site for television series including The X-Files.^[1]

Bronfman later acquired William F. White International, a film and television equipment rental company, financing the purchase by mortgaging his home.^[1] Under his management, the company grew to become a prominent provider of production equipment in Canada.^[1] In 2008, he founded Pinewood Toronto Studios, which includes one of the largest purpose-built sound stages in North America.^[3] He sold William F. White in 2019.^[1]

In 1995, Bronfman was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.^[1][2] He initially kept the diagnosis private but eventually disclosed it and continued working in the industry.^[1] He made adaptations to accommodate his condition, including the use of a customized elevating wheelchair for professional events.^[1]

Bronfman served in various industry organizations, including the Academy of Canadian Cinema & Television and Film Ontario, and was a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.^[1]