I’m saddened to share the passing of Arlene Winnick, a veteran entertainment publicist who left an indelible mark on the industry she loved. Winnick, who worked in Hollywood for over three decades, died on October 1st in Beverly Hills at the age of 77 after an extended illness.
Winnick’s career spanned the highs and lows of Tinseltown, from pioneering publicity campaigns for the emerging home video market in its early days to collaborating on high-profile events at iconic venues like the TCL Chinese Theatre. Throughout it all, she maintained a reputation as a tireless advocate for her clients and a cherished mentor to those privileged to work alongside her.
“Arlene was an integral part of Solters & Digney and its successor, Digney & Co. Public Relations,” said publicist Jerry Digney, who credited Winnick’s invaluable contributions over the years. “She worked in the entertainment industry for over 30 years and left an indelible mark on all she touched.”
Early in her career, Winnick helped craft marketing and publicity strategies that propelled the exploding home video industry into the mainstream. She worked on wildly successful exercise tapes starring Richard Simmons, Jane Fonda, and Zsa Zsa Gabor, giving these fitness gurus a platform to reach countless living rooms across America.
But Winnick’s talents extended far beyond home video. Over the decades, she lent her expertise as a consultant to numerous independent P.R. firms, including Digney’s team, tackling high-profile entertainment accounts. These ranged from theme park giants like Universal Studios Hollywood to iconic Hollywood landmarks such as the TCL Chinese Theatre.
“Among her final collaborations were handprint-footprint ceremonies at the TCL Chinese Theatre for James Cameron and Jon Landau, Keanu Reeves, and the cast of the Avengers films,” Digney noted, underscoring Winnick’s enduring impact on the industry.
Beyond her work in the entertainment sphere, Winnick also honed her skills in the food, restaurant, and tourism sectors. She accumulated over 35 years of PRP.R.xperience, lending her talents to household names like RaffleP.R.L’Ermitage Beverly Hills, Le Méridien Beverly Hills, and the Wyndham Bel Age (now The London West Hollywood).
“She was a true trailblazer,” said one colleague, “always staying ahead of the curve and finding innovative ways to capture the public’s attention.”
Winnick’s passion for the arts extended beyond her professional life. Since 2012, she has been a senior writer at L.A. Arts L.A.ne, reviewing over 50 events and performances. She was also a dedicated volunteer at Project Angel Food, giving back to her community with the same tenacity she brought to her work.
“Arlene was a beloved figure in the industry, respected by all who knew her,” Digney reflected. “Her warmth, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to her clients were unparalleled.”
Winnick’s legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched, from the A-list celebrities she represented to the young publicists she mentored. Her son, Jon Gladstone, summed it up best: “She was a force to be reckoned with, both professionally and personally. Her dedication, creativity, and sheer tenacity were truly inspirational.”
As the entertainment world mourns the loss of this trailblazing publicist, we can take solace in the lasting impact Arlene Winnick had on the industry she loved. Her unwavering spirit and tireless work ethic serve as a shining example for all those who aspire to follow in her footsteps.
In the words of one longtime friend and colleague, “Arlene Winnick was the embodiment of the Hollywood dream—a woman who carved out a memorable place for herself in an industry notoriously tough on outsiders. Her passing leaves a void that will be felt for years.”