< PreviousI worked at MGM/UA in Chicago when they had cut backs and were planning to close the office. Erik came in to lay off the first group. When we talked, he felt so bad about letting me go that I found myself trying to make him feel better. He was truly a class act. His compassion and kindness during a tough situation showed how much he cared for his people. — Trish DoughertyThis week is the first iPhone release since we lost our man. Since 2015 or so, Erik would call me the night before presale. “JD, you gotta get me the BIG one, and I can’t wait.” Erik assumed I had a special line to Tim Cook, but all I had was a corporate Apple store contact. I kept that to myself because of how much I looked forward to his calls on iPhone day. His gratitude and calling me “the coolest guy he knows” just for getting him a phone quickly was really special for me. I miss you, E. —Johnny DunnI really have no words—I truly do not think this man ever slept. He was up until the late hour and then up again by 3:30 A.M. to send the grosses by 6:00 A.M. He had such a memory, he could remember who worked where and for who. Remember all the data on grosses for all pictures. And he was so funny, I would sit on our “Zoom Meetings” and be busting a gut, but luckily no one could hear me. I will always miss his wonderful stories. He truly loved this business and will be missed by all. HE WAS “ONE” OF A KIND!! — Alice DuqueDear Erik, I hope you are at peace and watching over your beloved family and daughters who love you more than anything in this world. Although I did not see you often, whenver I did you were kind, loving, generous, and treated me as one of your own daughters. You always lit up a room no matter wherever you were and brought a unique electric energy every where you went. You were truly one of a kind and you will be forever loved and missed. Love, — Brittany FarkouhA story about Erik Lomis suitable for publishing? That’s a good one. After I joined MGM, people would ask me, “What’s it like working for Erik Lomis?” Here’s the truth: Erik was the smartest, hardest working, and most effective person I’ve ever come across in the business. His off-the-charts authenticity drew everybody in. And man was he funny. He was the greatest boss. Loyalty towards Erik always came naturally, and the loyalty he returned was boundless. Erik was the best. Love you and miss you, Erik. — Brett FellmanErik was a force of nature … a good friend, outstanding executive, philanthropist and rooted for anything Philly. His greatest joy was his loving family. RIP — Dan FellmanThe Palm. CinemaCon during COVID. Johnnie Blue. Arguing in Erik’s office. Can’t pick just one story… Thank you Patricia for sharing Erik with us. Thank you Erik for being the brother who taught me more than anyone about the movie biz. Most of all, thank you for inspiring an entire industry family to be charitable to those in need. If we can just follow your lead, we will see you in heaven. — John FithianI heard Erik Lomis was an incredible executive with ironclad relationships in the business and a passion for theatrical exhibition like no other. In 2017 I began working with him. My no-filter personality and opinions landed with a thud the first couple times, until we realized we shared a similar style. During the pandemic, Erik told me that adopting a dog would change my life and it did. Bob and I will forever be grateful for this—it speaks to the deep down gentle soul and kind heart he was. —Seth FradkoffThat night in Paris for the Man in the Iron Mask , as we were leaving the event, looking at 2,000 candles lighting the walkway. I told Erik someone had to blow them out. Ever the loyal soldier, Erik turned and started blowing them out, much to the laughter and enjoyment of everyone watching. If anyone ever doubted his loyalty and dedication, they didn’t know Lomis! He was loyal to a fault! It’s why we loved him so much. —Larry GleasonMy regular 5:30A.M. call with Erik: no matter what the tracking or box office said, I would wake up knowing I was going to argue, get lectured as to why I was wrong and hear at least one inappropriate joke that would give me a laugh to last me through the day. I miss those laughs the most, pal. A morning doesn’t pass without me feeling blessed to have such a great mentor and loyal friend. —Jonathan GlickmanNext >