Ted Mann
USA- Ted Mann: Founder of Mann Theatres Network
- Creating Mann Theatres
- A Career as a Producer
- A Legacy of Philanthropy
- Remembering Ted Mann
- A Legacy of Giving
Ted Mann: Founder of Mann Theatres Network
Ted Mann was born in 1916 in North Dakota. He enrolled at the University of Minnesota in 1930, and it was during his time as a student that he worked as an usher in a movie theater. Since childhood, Mann had a deep passion for cinema and theater, which led him to pursue a career in this field.
Creating Mann Theatres
After renting the Selby Theatre in Saint Paul, Minnesota for $100 a month, Mann started his own cinema company and opened a movie theater. He managed every aspect of the business, from film distribution to selling popcorn. Before long, his company began to expand, and Mann became the owner of 25 theaters across Minnesota.
A Career as a Producer
In 1970, Mann sold his successful theater network, General Cinema Corporation, and moved to California to work as a producer. Prior to this, he had already produced the science fiction film "The Illustrated Man" in 1969, based on a story by Ray Bradbury. However, Mann did not abandon his role as a film distributor entirely. In 1973, he acquired approximately 260 theaters, eventually expanding his empire to 360. In 1986, he sold this network to Gulf+Western, later known as Paramount Communications.
A Legacy of Philanthropy
Throughout his career, Mann continued his work as a producer. He created the crime drama "Buster and Billie" in 1974, followed by the drama "Lifeguard" in 1976. In 1980, the comedy "The Nude Bomb" was released, and in 1983, the British science fiction action film "Krull" hit theaters.
Remembering Ted Mann
Today, the Orpheum and Pantages theaters in Minneapolis were once owned by Ted Mann. In fact, he owned at least six theaters in the city center. The Ted Mann Concert Hall at the University of Minnesota, where Mann once studied, bears his name. In 1977, Mann married actress Rhonda Fleming, and they remained together until his death.
A Legacy of Giving
Ted Mann passed away on January 15, 2001, at the age of 85, from complications following a stroke. He is remembered as the founder of The Ted Mann Foundation, a charitable fund, as well as the Boys Club of Minneapolis and the Landmark West School for children with dyslexia.
