< PreviousErik was the hardest working boss I’ve ever had. I once thought I could beat him into the office on a Monday, I got in at 4:30 A.M. and there he was nose deep in reports. He greeted me, “Good afternoon, kid.” One of one—taught me everything I know about the business. —Narbeh MirzakhanianErik was a larger than life individual who was very rightfully admired in this industry and beyond. His humor, intellect, experience and boldness made him someone that will not likely be seen again. His charity and helpfulness to others is something we should all aspire to emulate. —Jim Orr In 2003, I was a new film buyer for Loews Cineplex and meeting Erik for the first time after dropping a title he had wanted me to hold. I was dressed in jeans, a shirt and baseball cap (It was an unplanned meeting and I knew it was a bad idea). Needless to say I was greeted with a baseball bat and some words of wisdom, LOL. Years later I worked for Erik and discovered he was the most generous, best boss, mentor & friend a person can have! Honored and privileged to have had the opportunity— and miss him every day. —Laurent OuaknineHeading into opening weekend, Erik told me Creed III was going to open in the high 50s. We had these calls regularly. We talked nearly every day about sports, life, work— and often ended with a “love ya bro.” He was a friend and big brother in ways he knew I needed more than I. When it came to an opening weekend, he had such passion and zeal. “High 50s???” as usual, I told him he was crazy. But he was on the number, exactly. His biggest opening ever and he nailed it. Miss you Erik. Love ya bro. —Mike PavlicI left 20th Century Fox after 25 years to take a job at Christie. Erik called me the day I left and said, “kid, go enjoy Christie but I will be calling you in a year or so to come work for me again.” Eleven months later, Erik called me and said, “Go tell Christie today you are leaving and coming with me to Annapurna.” Erik was loyal and truly a man of his word. — Brett ResnickOn my first day at MGM, Erik yelled from his office ... “RODRIGUEZ, we’re going to a four finger liquid lunch!” and I said, “but it’s my first day.” And he replied, “That’s right, we’ll make it a five finger lunch ... now let’s go!” That was his way of welcoming me. — Jim RodriguezErik was always lighting up the room with his charisma and humor. He acknowledged and paid attention to everyone around him —it didn’t matter who and what they were. There was never a dull moment with his arsenal of jokes, anecdotes, and insightful commentaries. I’ve learned a lot from him and I’ll always feel blessed for having worked with him. He has left a mark on all of us and his presence will always be missed. Rest in Peace, Erik. — Christiana SantosFor all the years I knew Erik I can’t ever remember him using my first name ... It was either Silecchio or Kid. The funny thing is I was only 8 years younger than him ... I so miss hearing that. — Lisa SilecchioI know Bob misses Erik on a daily basis. Erik was the only person who understood Bob’s quirks, and vice versa. They could say anything to each other and both would know exactly what the other meant. They loved and respected each other, and Erik’s loss leaves a hole in both of our hearts. Erik’s loss was a shock and a wake-up call for all of us to enjoy every day—just as Erik would have wanted. He was a truly authentic, unique person, and we miss him dearly. —Bob + Kathy SmerlingTO HAVE SUCCEEDED To laugh and love very much; To win the respect of intelligent people And the affection of children; To earn the approbation of honest critics And endure the betrayal of false friends; To appreciate beauty; To find the best in others; To give one’s self; To leave the world a little better; To have played and laughed with enthusiasm And sung with exultation; To know even on life has breathed easier Because you have lived… This is to have succeeded. —Ralph Waldo Emerson —Andrew SunshineNext >