The well-respected film producer Julie Payne, who managed the London operations of Ridley Scott’s Scott Free Film for 15 years, has died following a short and brave battle with cancer. She was 64. Payne produced and exec produced projects for the company including Richard Loncraine’s The Gathering Storm and follow-up Into The Storm, winning 2 Golden Globes and 2 Emmys in the process.

Subsequently, Payne also exec produced Scott’s own France-set comedy A Good Year, and produced Jordan Scott’s debut feature film Cracks. Payne’s collaboration with Scott dates back to the late-80s, when she worked across some of Scott’s most notable movies in various roles starting with Thelma & Louise in 1991 through to G.I. Jane and Gladiator.

Payne originally started her career at the BBC in the early ‘70s, working first in their costume department and then in costume allocation. She subsequently joined producer Sandy Lieberson, who introduced her to Scott.

Payne acted as Managing Director of Scott Free’s London office since 2010, and oversaw all of the company’s activities in film and television as well as Scott’s business interests across his other operations.

“Julie will be greatly missed by the entire Scott family as well as the whole of Scott Free and RSA Films, and everyone who came to experience her professional integrity and dedication over the years,” said a statement issued by Scott Free.

She is survived by her daughter Sarah and brother Mike with his family.

Payne passed away on June 15.