George McCowan, a highly acclaimed and influential Canadian film and television director, left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry spanning several decades, with his professional tenure stretching from the 1960s to the 1980s.
Born on June 27, 1927, McCowan embarked on a career that would ultimately shape the course of his life, commencing his journey with the esteemed Canadian Broadcasting Company.
In 1967, McCowan made the pivotal decision to relocate to the United States, marking a significant turning point in his professional trajectory.
Noted television director, McCowan, boasts an impressive repertoire of work, with a significant number of episodes under his belt. Specifically, he has directed a total of seven episodes of the iconic and beloved television series, Charlie's Angels, which has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. Furthermore, his expertise has been showcased in other notable television shows, including the crime drama, S.W.A.T., and the action-packed series, Starsky and Hutch. Moreover, his extensive experience has also led him to contribute to other prominent television programs, such as The Streets of San Francisco, Fantasy Island, and Hart to Hart, further solidifying his reputation as a skilled and accomplished director.
Noted television personality and filmmaker, McCowan, embarked on a diverse career, venturing beyond the realm of television to direct a multitude of films. His cinematic endeavors included the 1971 Canadian hockey film, Face-Off, which showcased his ability to capture the excitement and drama of the sport.
In 1972, McCowan directed not one, but two films. The first, The Magnificent Seven Ride!, was an action-packed western that undoubtedly thrilled audiences. The second, Frogs, was a horror film that brought a sense of unease and tension to the big screen.
The following year, McCowan continued to push the boundaries of his creativity, directing the 1973 film Shadow of the Hawk. This film showcased his ability to craft a compelling narrative that kept viewers engaged.
In addition to his work in film, McCowan also directed a television war movie, The Challenge, in 1970. However, he chose to credit himself under the pseudonym Alan Smithee, indicating that he was not entirely satisfied with the final product.
Furthermore, McCowan's cinematic repertoire also includes the film H. G. Wells' The Shape of Things to Come, which demonstrated his versatility as a director.
Notably, the life of renowned individual, McCowan, came to a poignant end on the initial day of November in the year 1995, marking a solemn occasion in the city of Santa Monica, located in the state of California.