Johnny Askwith, a gifted cinematographer, storyteller, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Friday night, April 11, 2025, at the age of 61. Known for his magnetic personality and unmatched generosity, Johnny leaves behind a legacy as vivid and spirited as the films he helped bring to life.
Born in Ottawa into a military family, Johnny was the youngest of four siblings. His father served as a colonel in the Canadian Army, while his mother owned a children’s bookstore—a contrast that perhaps helped shape Johnny’s blend of discipline and creativity. Summers were spent navigating the fierce waters of the Ottawa, Lachine, and Rouge rivers as a white-water rafting and kayaking guide, revealing an early love for adventure that would never fade.
After earning an Honours BA in Political Science with a minor in Film Studies from McGill University in Montreal, Johnny moved to Toronto, determined to carve out a career in film. He succeeded—spectacularly. Over the decades, Johnny wore many hats: camera operator, Director of Photography, actor, and producer. His talent and versatility landed him work on major productions such as The Incredible Hulk (2008), Total Recall (2012), and countless other projects where his steady hand and sharp eye shaped the visual heartbeat of each scene.
But beyond the credits and accolades, Johnny was known for something far rarer—his unwavering loyalty. Rob Plowman, a lifelong friend, remembers Johnny as a “Blue Chip Friend” who would always have your back, no matter what. In one unforgettable story from their teen years, Johnny quietly paid off a car repair bill after Rob crashed a Corvette into a fire hydrant. He never mentioned the money—just made sure his friend was okay. That was Johnny.
To those who knew him, Johnny was much more than a filmmaker. He was an athlete, a father, a dreamer, a joker, and a born storyteller who could light up a room with a tale and a laugh. As his brother, Mark Askwith, wrote:
“Johnny could be defined in many ways, but ‘incandescent,’ ‘Force Multiplier,’ and ‘Human Swiss Army Knife’ all fit. Even though he was only 61, he was an odd combination—both older and younger. He percolated at a higher frequency than the rest of us.”
Johnny’s impact reached beyond the set. He inspired colleagues, uplifted friends, and raised his children to see the world as a place full of wonder and possibility. His kindness, humour, and boundless energy remain etched in the hearts of all who knew him.
A public celebration of Johnny’s life will be announced in the coming days. Until then, the film and arts community, his friends, and his family mourn the loss of a bright light that left too soon.
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