Leonard Engelman was introduced to the art of makeup at an early age by his father, makeup artist Leonard Engelman Sr. Only 11 years old when his father died, young Leonard was left with many memories as well as his father’s makeup cases, hair supplies, and equipment. Playing with these items, reading some of his father’s books and literature, and experimenting with makeup led Leonard to realize by age 13 that he wanted to be a motion picture and television makeup artist.
At the age of 28 (very young for a makeup artist then), Leonard was assigned as Makeup Department Head on Alfred Hitchcock’s film, Topaz. Soon after, Leonard was assigned to a new television series, Rod Serling’s Night Gallery-a makeup artist’s dream, filled with character, periods, beauty, and monsters. In 1986, Leonard met Cher on the production of Witches of Eastwick and they embarked on a business relationship that involved many endeavors. When Cher received her Academy Award for Moonstruck, she thanked her makeup artist, Leonard Engelman, in her televised acceptance speech.
Leonard’s 50-year career spanned film, television, and a roster of celebrities including Julie Andrews, Kevin Kline, Faye Dunaway, Glenn Close, Michelle Pfeiffer, Danny Glover, Dan Aykroyd, Melanie Griffith, Val Kilmer, Sigourney Weaver, Meg Ryan, Farrah Fawcett, Sylvester Stallone, and many others. His film resume includes Rocky IV, Mercury Rising, The Princess Diaries, Ghostbusters, Burlesque, and more.
Leonard was nominated for two Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Makeup and he received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Make-Up Artists and Hair Stylists Guild. Sadly, he passed away in August 2024, but his passion for educating and inspiring generations of makeup artists ensures that his legacy will live on.
Interviewed by Winn Claybaugh, Leonard shared his extensive insights on makeup. Always a mentor at heart, he also revealed his passion and wisdom about careers in makeup artistry.
RELATED LINKS
Website: https://academy.makeupforever.com/int/expert/leonard-engelman
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0257255/