Richard Perry — a highly influential music producer renowned for his collaborations with iconic stars of the 1970s and 1980s — has sadly passed away, as confirmed by TMZ.

Ben McCarthy — Richard’s loyal personal assistant for nearly three decades — shared with TMZ that Richard passed away around 1:30 AM this morning. This tragic news comes as a significant loss to the music industry, where Perry left an indelible mark.

Sources inform us that Richard bravely battled Parkinson’s disease. Ben mentioned he visited him a month ago, where Richard was unable to communicate verbally. Despite this, he maintained a positive demeanor during their time together, showcasing his resilient spirit even in challenging times.

After graduating from college in 1964, Perry made a bold move from Michigan to Los Angeles, where he launched his career in the music industry. He quickly gained recognition by producing the first few albums for avant-garde rock legend Captain Beefheart, marking the start of his influential journey in music production.

Throughout the dynamic 1970s, Perry collaborated with legendary artists such as Carly Simon, Barbra Streisand, Art Garfunkel, Diana Ross, Ringo Starr, and many others. His close partnership with Rod Stewart was particularly noteworthy, as Perry played a pivotal role in helping Stewart produce three of his celebrated Great American Songbook albums.

In 1978, Perry founded Planet Records, his own music label, which he successfully operated until its acquisition by RCA Records in 1983. This venture not only solidified his reputation as a leading producer but also allowed him to nurture emerging talents in the music industry.

Over his illustrious career, Perry produced numerous platinum and gold records, demonstrating his expertise and influence within the music industry. His remarkable contributions were recognized in 2015 when he received a Grammy Trustees Award, honoring his exceptional work and lasting impact on recording music.

From 2009 to 2017, Perry was in a meaningful relationship with Jane Fonda. Their romance blossomed as Perry supported her recovery following knee surgery, demonstrating the deep bond they shared during this significant time in her life.

Perry confirmed their breakup in 2017, stating that the rumors were accurate but emphasized that they continued to maintain a close friendship and care deeply for one another despite no longer being romantically involved.

Richard Perry was 82 years old at the time of his passing, leaving behind a legacy of musical excellence and unforgettable collaborations.