Diane Martel Legendary Video Director Dies At 63 After Battle With Breast Cancer

Diane Martel, acclaimed video director and all-around creative talent, has died at the age of 63. A statement issued confirmed that she passed away on Thursday (Sept. 18).“Diane passed away peacefully at Memorial Sloan Kettering Hospital surrounded by friends and family after a long battle with breast cancer,” relayed her family. She is survived by her Aunt, Gail Merrifield Papp (wife of Joseph Papp, founder of The Public Theatre), her three beloved, loyal cats (Poki, PopPop, PomPom), and many loving lifetime friends Known for her work with Beyoncé, Mariah Carey, Ciara, Jennifer Lopez, Robin Thicke, Miley Cyrus, Pharrell Williams, Christina Aguilera, Alicia Keys, John Legend, and more, the industry collectively grieved the loss of the visionary powerhouse. “You believed in me and I believed in you! You will forever hold a special place in my heart and I am forever grateful for all the magic we’ve were able to make together,” wrote Ciara on Instagram. Martel’s most recently released work is the singer’s “Ectasy” music video issued earlier this year I know it was all God! Heaven has just gained an Angel. I love you so much @DianeMartel_ A.k.a. Miss D! Rest In Paradise,” she closed with a red heart emoji. Gang Starr, the Hip-Hop duo comprised of MC Guru and DJ Premier, also released a tribute to Martel on social media, listing some of her most memorable work. “R.I.P. DIANE MARTEL who passed yesterday Sept. 18th from breast Cancer,” began the post, which featured an image of Martel behind the camera. “She directed our @gangstarr video ‘MASS APPEAL’ (1994). She directed so many classics from Onyx (Throw Ya Gunz), ODB (Brooklyn Zoo), Method Man (Bring The Pain), Clipse (Grindin), Big Shug (Treat U Better), Keith Murray (The Most Beautifullest Thing In This World), Khia (My Neck, My Back), Mariah Carey (Dreamlover/All I Want For Christmas), Christina Aguilera (Genie In A Bottle), Robin Thicke (Blurred Lines), Miley Cyrus (We Can’t Stop) and many more… And add Photography to her menu. Your endless history will remain recognized. Sleep Peacefully.”

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