Gene Winfield, a towering figure in the custom car industry and a significant contributor to film and television, died at age 97. Born on June 16, 1927, in Springfield, Missouri, Winfield's creative influence left an indelible mark on cinematic and television history.
According to Deadline, Gene Winfield, known for his pioneering vehicle designs in "Blade Runner" and "Star Trek," has passed away.
His death was confirmed through an obituary published on Legacy.com stating that he passed away on March 4. The news followed shortly after Winfield's custom shop revealed via Instagram that he had been battling cancer. His passing marks the end of an era for fans and peers alike.
Gene's journey into the world of car customization started early. He moved to Modesto, California, as a toddler, where he started working on cars at the tender age of 10. His passion for automobiles led him to a career that began earnestly post-World War II after serving in the Army.
During the early 1950s, his interest transitioned into a professional commitment as he delved into auto racing and car building, crafting a niche for himself in the burgeoning hot rod culture in America. It was in this era that he earned the nickname “The King of Kustoms,” a title that reflected his unique ability to transform ordinary vehicles into extraordinary works of art.
Beyond aesthetics, Winfield's skills extended into technical mastery. He was a pioneer of the customized paint scheme, which became a signature attribute of his work. Throughout his career, Winfield received numerous accolades, including the National Hot Rod Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award.
Moreover, his reputation for excellence granted him the privilege to collaborate with major Detroit automakers, a testament to his influence and expertise in the industry. This close relationship with big auto firms underpinned some of his most iconic project involvements, influencing car design on a global scale.
Winfield's foray into cinematic and television productions cemented his legacy. Among the most memorable of his creations were the "spinners" from the acclaimed film "Blade Runner." These futuristic vehicles showcased his vision and knack for innovative design.
He was also the brains behind the Galileo shuttlecraft and the Jupiter 8 in the iconic original "Star Trek" series. His work extended to other notable properties during the 1960s spy craze, designing the Catmobile for "Batman," as well as crafting gadget-filled cars for "Get Smart!" and "The Man from U.N.C.L.E."
Winfield’s craftsmanship also graced the sets of "Back to the Future II," "RoboCop," "The Last Starfighter," "Magnum Force," and popular TV shows like "Bewitched" and "Mission: Impossible." Each project reflected his ability to blend artistic flare with practical execution.
David Grant chronicled his remarkable career and life in the 2008 book, The Legendary Custom Cars and Hot Rods of Gene Winfield. Furthermore, filmmakers prominently featured him in a mid-2010s DVD series, The King of Kustoms, which explored the depth and breadth of his influential work.
In recognition of his contributions, organizations inducted Gene into several halls of fame throughout his life, acknowledging his pivotal role in shaping the custom automotive design field. As a result, these accolades testify to his enduring influence on car culture and his lasting impact on both enthusiasts and professionals in the automotive industry.
Even after his passing, the legacy of Gene Winfield remains a profound beacon for creativity and innovation in the custom car industry. As tributes pour in from across the globe, people continue to highlight the breadth of his impact, celebrating a man who not only designed cars but crafted icons.
Ultimately, Gene Winfield's journey from a young boy in Missouri to a revered icon in automobile design demonstrates a life well-lived and a career marked by passion, innovation, and a legacy that will inspire for generations to come.
