DreamWorks Animation producer Nancy Bernstein dies at 55

Nancy Bernstein, once the head of production at DreamWorks Animation, died after a long battle with cancer. She was 55.

“We are heartbroken by the loss of Nancy Bernstein, a dear family member who passed away on Friday following a long and courageous battle with illness,” DWA said Monday in a statement. “Nancy’s unwavering professional tenacity translated to her efforts in searching for a cure for colorectal cancer through her organization, Call to Cure. Our deepest sympathies go out to Nancy’s family during this incredibly difficult time.”

Bernstein spent 10 years at DWA, and in addition to being head of production, was a film producer and oversaw the company’s overseas initiatives. Before her time there, she was a visual effects producer on a number of films, notably The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, X-Men, and I, Robot.

In December 2011, Bernstein was diagnosed with stage 4 metastasized colorectal cancer, but continued to work. At DWA, she produced 2012’s Rise of the Guardians.

Bernstein is survived by her wife, Cheryl, and daughter, Ruby.