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Met Opera Icon Bruce Crawford Dies at 96

1/8/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Bruce Crawford, an advertising executive and former Metropolitan Opera general manager, died December 28, 2025, at age 96 of cancer.
He led the Metropolitan Opera from 1986 to 1989 and served as Lincoln Center's chairman, revitalizing the center.
Crawford joined the Met board in 1976 and held positions including president and CEO.
He cut production costs and oversaw the opening of new venues and expansion of Lincoln Center's cultural programs.

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Story summary

Bruce Crawford, an advertising executive and former Metropolitan Opera general manager, died December 28, 2025, at age 96 of cancer.
He led the Metropolitan Opera from 1986 to 1989 and served as Lincoln Center's chairman, revitalizing the center.
Crawford joined the Met board in 1976 and held positions including president and CEO.
He cut production costs and oversaw the opening of new venues and expansion of Lincoln Center's cultural programs.