On February 3rd 2012, Discovery Channel lost two of our dear colleagues and friends with the passing of Mike deGruy and Andrew Wight. According to the Huffington Post, the celebrated and renowned filmmakers were killed in a helicopter crash while working on a production in Australia. No details about the cause of the crash are currently available.
Mike deGruy, an Alabama native, grew up with a passion for the ocean that followed him through his professional career. A chance encounter led to a career which allowed him to share his love of the world’s oceans. As deGruy’s media career continued to blossom, he became a world class cinematographer, deep water submersible pilot and on-camera presenter and conducted notable interviews with James Cameron, Sir David Attenborough and Al Gore.
Andrew Wight’s writing accomplishments soared as Sanctum became one of the most successful Australian films in recent years. Wight was more than a filmmaker, drawing upon his experiences exploring and diving to bring authenticity to his projects. Known as James Cameron’s right hand man to some, Wight worked with Cameron extensively on dive related projects.
Both Mike deGruy and Andrew Wight will be missed deeply, but their legacy of storytelling, adventure, exploration and conservation will live on as future generations enjoy, learn and build upon their stories.
Contributions in Mike’s honor may directed to the following organizations
The Santa Barbara Middle School (www.sbms.org)
Heal the Ocean (www.healtheocean.org)
The Mobile Bay Keeper (www.mobilebaykeeper.org)
Andrew Wight supported the following charities that were very close to his heart. If you would like to make a donation please see the links below:
Australian Marine Conservation Society (http://www.amcs.org.au/)
Royal Flying Doctor Service (http://www.flyingdoctor.org.au/)
Aussie Helpers (http://www.aussiehelpers.org.au/)
Remebering Mike deGruy
Remembering Andrew Wight
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