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He will not participate in any private or public events around the film technologies company while the recovery progresses, the company said.
Imax says CEO Richard Gelfond is taking temporary medical leave to undergo treatment for pneumonia.
“He is receiving outstanding care and progressing in his recovery,” the film technology company said in a statement Monday. During his recovery, Gelfond, who has led the company since 2009 after first joining as co-CEO in 1993, will be absent from private or public events at Imax.
In his place, senior Imax executives will oversee day-to-day responsibilities alongside Chairman Darren Throop. “IMAX is issuing this statement to provide transparency and ensure there is no speculation regarding Mr. Gelfond’s non-appearance at upcoming company events, including industry conferences next week,” the company added.
Gelfond recently took the helm of Imax as the company navigates a post-pandemic box office rebound for Hollywood studios, its main movie suppliers, thanks to in-demand premium screen offerings and Hollywood blockbusters shot on Imax’s own cameras.
To protect Gelfond’s privacy, Imax said it will not provide comment beyond appropriate updates. His current contract with IMAX runs until 2028.
“We have a strong, deeply experienced senior executive team that is fully engaged, provides regular updates to the Board, and remains focused as always on the continued growth and success of Imax. We all wish Rich the best and a full and speedy recovery,” Throop said in his statement.
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