Legendary surf filmmaker Jack McCoy dies aged 76 – just days after his 20th anniversary film tour wraps up in Australia

By JIMMY BRIGGS FOR DAILY MAIL AUSTRALIA

Published: 04:02 BST, 28 May 2025 | Updated: 04:03 BST, 28 May 2025

Legendary surf filmmaker Jack McCoy has died aged 76, just days after he wrapped up his 20th anniversary Australian tour of his iconic 2004 movie Blue Horizon.

The Los Angeles-born movie director died earlier this week after several years of poor health.

His celebrated career was defined by his enthusiasm for capturing the beauty and thrill of surfing on film.

His work spanned from the ’70s until the 2010s, during which he created a series of influential movies that not only showcased the sport but also inspired generations of surfers and film enthusiasts worldwide.

McCoy’s passing was confirmed by his family in a heartbreaking statement on social media.

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Legendary surf filmmaker Jack McCoy has died aged 76, just days after he wrapped up his 20th anniversary Australian tour of his iconic 2004 movie Blue Horizon

‘It’s with the heaviest of hearts that we share the passing of our beloved father – our Big Kahuna – who has now caught his final wave and rests peacefully above,’ they began.

‘A true one of a kind, he was deeply loved by so many and touched, moved and inspired millions of hearts across the globe through his story telling, art and most importantly his passion for the environment and spirit of aloha.

‘His legacy lives on in all of us who had the privilege to have met him.’ 

McCoy had strong ties with the Australian surfing community and regularly visited Down Under to promote the sport.

Mark Occhilupo, Luke Egan, Taj Burrow and Nathan Hedge were just some of the Aussie surf stars he was friends with.

Expressing heartbreak over the news, several members of the surfing community took to social media to pay tribute to McCoy.

‘So sorry to hear this. Big love to Jack, his family, friends and fans. Legend,’ wrote Australian retired pro-surfer Taj Burrow.

‘So many beautiful moments with you Jack over the years! You taught me and so many so much,’ Luke Egan chipped in. 

His celebrated career was defined by his enthusiasm for capturing the beauty and thrill of surfing on film

The Los Angeles-born movie director died earlier this week after several years of poor health 

‘Sending love and prayers to the entire family,’ added US surfer Rob Machado.

The 20th-anniversary Australian tour of his seminal 2004 surf movie Blue Horizon wrapped up on May 24, just days before his passing. 

The 13-date tour saw McCoy hold special screenings at select cinemas across the country, as well as hosting Q&A sessions for surfing enthusiasts. 

The iconic film tracks the rival between two competing surfers chasing the world title and features interviews with surf stars Kelly Slater and Mark Occhilupo.

Throughout his career, McCoy continued to push boundaries in surf filmmaking, using innovative techniques to capture the essence of the sport.

He is survived by his wife Kelly and their two children, Indiana and Cooper. 

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Legendary surf filmmaker Jack McCoy dies aged 76 – just days after his 20th anniversary film tour wraps up in Australia

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