Lalo Schifrin, composer of iconic 'Mission: Impossible' theme, dies at 93
Renowned composer Lalo Schifrin, best known for creating the unforgettable theme for Mission: Impossible and scoring over 100 film and television projects, has passed away at the age of 93.
His son, Ryan Schifrin, confirmed that the Argentine-born musician died at his Los Angeles home yesterday (26 June) due to complications from pneumonia, surrounded by family.
Schifrin, a six-time Oscar nominee and four-time Grammy winner, left a lasting mark on film and music. His Mission: Impossible theme, written in a rare 5/4 time signature, became a global phenomenon, described by critics as "the most contagious tune ever heard." It also helped fuel the decades-long film franchise starring Tom Cruise.
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Schifrin's credits span a wide range — from scoring classics like Cool Hand Luke, The Amityville Horror, The Sting II, and Dirty Harry, to working with jazz legends Dizzy Gillespie and Count Basie. His musical versatility earned him global acclaim, blending classical, jazz, and popular styles.
He also arranged the legendary Three Tenors' performance at the 1990 FIFA World Cup in Italy, one of the best-selling classical music recordings in history.
Born Boris Claudio Schifrin in Buenos Aires, he studied at the Paris Conservatory before moving to the U.S., where he gained fame as a composer, conductor, and pianist.
Schifrin's legacy includes Grammy and Latin Grammy honors, an honorary Oscar in 2018, and scores for films like Rush Hour, Bringing Down the House, and After the Sunset. His work also extended to unique projects like Songs of the Aztecs, performed in Mexico's ancient Teotihuacan pyramids.
Schifrin is survived by his wife, Donna, sons Ryan and William, and daughter Frances.
