Influential Deaths: Imero Fiorentino

TALLAHASSEE, FL - Lighting Designer, Imero Fiorentino died in October due to complications after surgery in New York City.

NyTimes.com

Rosemary Kalikow, a television producer who worked with Fiorentino said, “Since Imero was truly loved by so many people, we all share in this sad loss together. His light will always shine upon us. He will always live in our hearts.”

Due to a childhood accident, Fiorentino lost sight in one eye. Although impaired, he was still a noted designer. He was responsible for restoring Nixon’s image at the presidential debates.

When interviewed in 2006 by the Archive of American Television, Fiorentino stated, “ I was fascinated: how do they have a group of dancers and they’re all in pink, and they go behind the scenery, come out the other side and they’re all blue? It didn’t take me long to figure out that it was the light that did it.”

Newsweek wrote Imero Fiorentino was the “Picasso of spots and strobes” in 1969. He illuminated Muhammad Ali in the first Heavyweight championship fight. He also designed lighting for big names such as Frank Sinatra and Bill Cosby. 

Lighting is a big part of onstage presence. Good lighting is essential according to Carey Robinson. Skin tone and clothing colors have to be taken into consideration when lighting someone.

Funeral services for Imero Fiorentino were held at St. Malachy’s Church- The Actor’s Chapel, in New York City.