Ted Pedas, Greek-American Film Producer and Coen Brothers Collaborator, Dies at 93

Ted Pedas, a prominent Greek-American film producer, passed away at the age of 93 on Friday, March 21, 2025.

Pedas, alongside his brother James, made significant contributions to the film industry, notably producing four Coen Brothers films: "Blood Simple," "Raising Arizona," "Miller’s Crossing," and "Barton Fink."

Born to Greek immigrant parents, Pedas graduated with an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania in 1954. He and his brother later settled in the Washington, DC, area, where they both attended George Washington University Law School. The siblings became lifelong business partners, initially launching Colt 45 Records before transitioning into the movie business. Their ventures began with drive-in theaters and evolved into owning arthouse cinemas. Together, they founded Circle Films, a production company that started by importing foreign films and later produced numerous American movies.

Beyond cinema, the Pedas brothers established the Theodore and James Pedas Family Professorship in Intellectual Property and Technology Law at George Washington University, reflecting their commitment to education and innovation. Ted was also deeply engaged in the Greek-American community and a dedicated member of the American Hellenic Institute (AHI). AHI President Nick Larigakis praised Pedas as "a tremendous Hellene" and credited his and Jim’s support as foundational to the Institute’s success, emphasizing Ted’s unwavering passion for Greece and Hellenic values.

Pedas is survived by his wife, Lea; his children, George, Billy, and Michele; his brother, Jim; and six grandchildren. Funeral services are scheduled for Friday, March 28, 2025, at Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Washington, DC, with a viewing at 10 a.m. followed by a service at 11 a.m.