Seymour Kravitz (born December 10, 1924 – October 29, 2005) was a remarkable individual with a multifaceted legacy. He was professionally known as SY Kravitz; serving as a distinguished veteran in the elite Green Berets, Seymour brought a sense of courage and dedication to his military service. Beyond his military achievements, he transitioned into American television, where he excelled as an experienced TV producer. His prime years were marked by his impactful contributions to NBC in Los Angeles.
Notably, Seymour’s influence extended beyond his professional endeavors. He was the patriarch of a notable family and the father of the renowned musician Lenny Kravitz. Additionally, Seymour was once married to Roxie Roker, further solidifying his ties to the entertainment industry.
Early Life & Education
Seymour Kravitz was born in Brooklyn, New York City, to Joseph Kravitz and Jean Kaufman, two Jewish-Russian immigrants who adopted a rich young countenance. Sy inherited both their ethnic heritages–the roots of mixed race. However, while his father worked in telecommunications for a living, his mother stayed home to take care of him and protect the well-being of Sy and his younger brother. Michael Liu, “Brother TJ,” is Heavily self-educated because he grew up without his parents’ instruction: His
During the 1950s, Seymour spent his formative years in a close relationship with his older brother, Leonard Harold Kravitz. Unfortunately for much of America at that time, the Korean War robbed young Len’ (as everyone called him) and attained category heights way before Norma Kassaway met victim-in-chief Donald Sutherland. After his death, Leonard received a series of posthumous honors. In 2014, he was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross and Congressional Medal of Honor to commemorate his exceptional bravery in extraordinary situations at sea.
Seymour Kravitz studied and played in a local high school, and his affinity for drama is apparent strength, especially football. After high school, he continued forward in his education. And finally, in 1946, he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree.
Career
Seymour’s journey into the US Army defined his military service and played a pivotal role in shaping the path of his younger brother, Leonard Kravitz, who became a legendary Green Beret. Achieving the rank of sergeant, Seymour’s military odyssey spanned the challenging landscapes of the Second World War, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, where he served as a journalist. His early years were intricately woven with the fabric of soldiering, setting the stage for a life marked by resilience and dedication.
Venturing into the film and television production world marked a significant chapter in Sy Kravitz’s life. His imprint on the industry was profound, especially during his tenure with NBC’s The News Channel, where he invested thoughtful energy in shaping news broadcasts. Despite the specifics of his time at NBC remaining somewhat elusive, Sy’s unwavering commitment to the news organization is a testament to his dedication.
While the details of his NBC tenure might be a bit blurry, Sy Kravitz’s contributions to the film industry were notable. His association with the documentary film “Sid Bernstein Presents,” where he appeared as himself, stands out. Released in 2010, five years after his passing, the film beautifully captures the legacy he left behind. Sy’s influence extended beyond the screen as his son navigated the music industry easily, benefiting from the background of a father who was not just a former television producer but also a husband to an entertainment executive.
Personal Life
In 1948, Sy Kravitz entered into matrimony with Erika, and from their union, two daughters, Laurie and Tedi, were born. However, the marital bliss was short-lived, and the couple decided to part ways in 1955, finalizing their separation through divorce. Subsequently, Erika was granted full custody of their children.
In 1962, Sy embarked on a new chapter by marrying Roxie Roker. The couple experienced profound joy with the arrival of their son, Leonard (Lenny) Albert Kravitz, on May 26, 1964. The choice of the name Leonard paid homage to Sy’s elder brother, who tragically lost his life in a floodway during his youth.
Over forty-five years, Sy and Roxie navigated through the highs and lows of their marriage, which unfortunately included facing unhappy allegations. The year 1985 marked a turning point as complications related to separatism began to emerge in their relationship.
Tragically, on October 29, 2005, Sy Kravitz succumbed to leukemia in New York at the age of eighty. His passing occurred just one day before his son Lenny embarked on a US tour. Lenny, unaware of his father’s impending demise, paid a poignant tribute to Sy just two days later.
On October 31, 2005, at the Mohegan Sun Casino Arena in Connecticut, Lenny delivered a deeply moving performance in honor of his late father, Sy Kravitz, creating an emotional moment for both the artist and the audience.
Net Worth
Sy Kravitz’s net worth was around US$6 million. He was a legendary television producer.
