Jason Constantine, the longtime Lionsgate Motion Picture Group executive who helped shape several of the studio’s defining film franchises, has died at 55. Lionsgate said Constantine died after a long battle with cancer, with reports noting he died June 3 at his Los Angeles home following a fight with brain cancer.
What happened to Jason Constantine?
Jason Constantine’s death was announced by Lionsgate on Thursday, June 5, 2025, prompting tributes across the film industry for an executive closely tied to the studio’s modern identity. For readers searching for a Jason Constantine obituary, the central facts are clear: he was a veteran acquisitions and production leader, a co-president of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, and a key advocate behind major titles including “Saw,” “John Wick,” “Crash,” “Precious” and “Knives Out.”
Lionsgate remembered Constantine as a creative force with strong talent relationships and a bold approach to film strategy. In its statement, the studio said his influence would continue to be felt in many of its most successful franchises, describing him as a respected executive, trusted partner and cherished friend.
A career built around bold acquisitions
Constantine began his Lionsgate career more than 25 years ago at Trimark Pictures, the predecessor company to Lionsgate, where he worked as director of acquisitions. He later rose through the ranks to become co-president of the Motion Picture Group, helping guide the company’s film slate as Lionsgate grew into a major independent studio presence.
One of the most frequently cited examples of his impact is “Saw.” Constantine reportedly pushed for Lionsgate to acquire the horror project after seeing a short concept film from James Wan and Leigh Whannell, a decision that helped launch one of the studio’s signature franchises. His tenure also spanned the “John Wick” series, “The Expendables,” “The Hitman’s Bodyguard,” “Kick-Ass,” “Rambo: Last Blood,” “Angel Has Fallen,” “Plane,” “Margin Call,” “Dear White People” and “The Cabin in the Woods.”
Key details in Jason Constantine’s death and career include:
- Age: 55.
- Role: Co-president of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group.
- Cause reported: Cancer, with the Los Angeles Times reporting a long fight with brain cancer.
- Career start: Director of acquisitions at Trimark Pictures.
- Major films and franchises: “Saw,” “John Wick,” “Crash,” “Precious,” “Knives Out” and “The Expendables.”
- Family: Survived by his wife, Kristin, and sons Lucas, Xander and Nicholas.
Jason Constantine family and memorial wishes
The Jason Constantine family includes his wife, Kristin, and their three sons, Lucas, Xander and Nicholas. Reports also noted that, in lieu of flowers, the family asked mourners to consider donations supporting brain cancer research connected to his medical teams at Stanford Medicine and UCLA.
Constantine’s death closes a notable chapter for Lionsgate, where his work helped turn unconventional film bets into durable franchises. His legacy is likely to remain visible not only in the studio’s library, but also in the way Hollywood remembers executives who championed risky ideas before they became mainstream hits.