Louis Lazzara
Journeyman Makeup Artist
1959-2021

In his own words, "My film career has always allowed me to meet and experience nice additions to historic touchstones in my life. Watching the moon landing…years later Arnold introduced me to John Glenn…I met three Presidents, a Pope, the Queen of England, Sophia Loren and Paul Walker. All made my heart race. Charmed life and grateful memories…most important is family."

Even as a teenager in Paterson, NJ, Louis Lazzara’s artistic talents paved the way for his career as one of most highly regarded make-up artists in film and television. He joined Local 706 in 1990 and became a Journeyman in 1991. Soon after, he joined the crew of the Friday the 13th franchise, noted for his work in Special Make-up Effects as Robert Englund’s (Freddy Krueger) make-up artist. In the early 1990s he began working with the actor who he considered his mentor, Roy Scheider on Sea Quest. Their friendship lasted throughout Roy’s career until his passing in 2009 while filming Iron Cross.  Roy passed away before filming was completed and Louis is credited with creating Roy’s likeness with prosthetics on doubles in order to finish the film. Louis’ skills parlayed into a long history of films with Arnold Schwarzenegger (Eraser, Jingle All the Way, End of Days, Collateral Damage, T-2, 3D and Terminator III). Dwayne ("The Rock") Johnson was next to appreciate Lazarra’s talents and he is credited with The Scorpion King, The Rundown, Be Cool, Gridiron Gang and Race to Witch Mountain.  

Louis’ love of all forms of artistry encouraged his adventurous travels to Europe, especially his beloved Italy. He was not only a wonderful make-up artist but a very talented sculptor, interior designer, fine artist, architecture aficionado, exuberant dinner host and of course, raconteur.  His stories and joie de vivre were legendary.   His generosity of spirit spread out to his fellow artisans.  There are so many beautiful stories shared about how this gentle giant went the extra mile to encourage and share his knowledge with newcomers, even going so far as to hop on a plane and travel back to the East Coast to help a newly graduated make-up student and give her much of his own kit as well as treasured handwritten notes and manuscript from the legend, Dick Smith.  

Lazzara’s appreciation of film making encouraged his passion for collectibles, many of which he donated to the Motion Picture Academy of Arts and Sciences new museum, prior to his passing.  He was partially finished with a memoir. He even had his own art gallery for a time, selling his bold, exuberant paintings and sculptures.  Louis was a member of the Make-up and Hairstyling Branch of the Motion Picture Academy of Arts and Sciences, and he was nominated for an Emmy for Outstanding Make-up on the television series Angel.  

Louis’s love of family was of the utmost importance.  He loved sharing photos of his parents, brother and sister, aunts, uncles, cousins and his beloved nieces.  He is survived by his brother Anthony and sister Michele along with numerous family members. At this time, no memorial arrangement has been published, however it is anticipated a gathering will be held late in September.  

A small private service was held for family. A memorial service is planned when Covid restrictions are lifted.

Artwork by Louis Lazzara