Veteran Hollywood Publicist Gene Schwam Dies at Age 96

Veteran Hollywood publicist Gene Schwam died on Friday in Los Angeles following a brief illness, at the age of 96. The Hollywood Reporter and Variety both reported the news of his death. [1][2]

The Hollywood Reporter and Variety both report that Schwam represented major entertainment figures throughout his career, including Elvis Presley, Blake Edwards, Julie Andrews, Barbara Eden, and Lenny Bruce. The Hollywood Reporter added that his client roster also included Judy Garland. [1][2]

Before launching his own firm, Schwam was earning $35 a week working alongside publicist Stanley Cowan, according to the Hollywood Reporter and Variety. Schwam left that position to co-found Hanson & Schwam Public Relations with Adeline Hanson in 1955. [1][2]

The Hollywood Reporter reported that Hanson & Schwam Public Relations initially represented restaurants and musicians before expanding its roster across the broader entertainment industry. The agency went on to handle publicity for clients such as Nancy Wilson, Lou Rawls, and the Cocoanut Grove nightclub. [1]