Leslie H. Martinson, directed ‘PT109,’ ‘Batman’ and ‘Lad, A Dog,’ dies at 101

Renowned film and television Director Leslie H. Martinson died September 3, 2016 at the age of 101.  He was born in Boston, Massachusetts on January 16, 1915, and moved out to Hollywood to begin his career as a script supervisor on such films as Easter Parade and The Pirate.  He is best known for directing films such as “PT109,” “Batman” (1966), “Lad: A Dog,” “The Atomic Kid,” “For Those Who Think Young” and “Mrs. Polifax, Spy.”  He began his career directing on “The Roy Rogers Show,” with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans, and episodics such as “Maverick,” “Cheyenne,” “Quincy,” “Dallas,” “Chips,” “Love American Style” and “The Brady Bunch.” 

He received the Griffoni Award for “Batman” and The Golden Boot Award for his work in Western TV shows. 

Martinson was also president emeritus of the West Coast Jewish Theatre, a member of and contributor to Temple Israel of Hollywood, and a supporter of Israel and Israeli charities.

He died surrounded by his family, and is survived by his wife, Constance, daughter, Julianna, son-in-law, Douglas, and grandson, Richard.  For more information, please go to LeslieMartinson.com.  In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations to be made to OPICA Adult Day Care.