Zalman King

Zalman King, born Zalman King Lefkowitz on May 23, 1942, in Trenton, New Jersey, was a multifaceted American filmmaker known for his distinctive style that intertwines sexuality and storytelling, often placing his work in the realm of erotica.

His career began in the early 1960s, when he appeared as a gang member in an episode of Alfred Hitchcock Presents, sharing the screen with actors like James Caan and Walter Koenig. King also portrayed Muley in a 1967 episode of Gunsmoke, showcasing his ability to bring complex characters to life.

From September 1970 to May 1971, he starred as attorney Aaron Silverman in the ABC drama The Young Lawyers. King’s unique acting style shone through in the 1975 film Trip with the Teacher, where he played the deranged biker Al.

Transitioning into directing, King gained prominence with films like Two Moon Junction (1988), Wild Orchid (1990), and the influential Red Shoe Diaries (1992), which evolved into a successful Showtime series. His collaboration with Adrian Lyne on 9½ Weeks, featuring Kim Basinger and Mickey Rourke, further solidified his reputation in the industry.

King’s directorial work also included the 1995 adaptation of Anaïs Nin's Delta of Venus. He married writer and producer Patricia Louisianna Knop, with whom he collaborated on various projects, including Wild Orchid and numerous episodes of Red Shoe Diaries. The couple had two daughters, Chloe King and Gillian Lefkowitz. King passed away on February 3, 2012.