Belfast-born founder of one of world's biggest movie magazines passes away aged 65

Belfast Telegraph

3 days ago

In a statement, Empire – one of the the world's biggest movie magazines – wrote that Mr McIlheney, a 'journalist, editor, publisher, broadcaster, and one-time vocalist for Northern Irish post-punk band Shock Treatment passed away in his sleep in the early hours of yesterday [Monday] morning, it has been confirmed'.
Colin McIlheney shared the news of his brother's death on Facebook on Tuesday morning, writing: "It is with a very heavy heart that I have to share the news that my brother Barry died unexpectedly and peacefully in his sleep in the early hours of yesterday morning, Monday 26th May at his home in Spain.
"This has come as a terrible shock to our family and especially to Lola, Frankie and Mary. We all loved Barry very much and I shared a close bond with him [...] He will be very much missed by us all.'
Mr McIlheney was born in Northern Ireland's capital on 13 May, 1960.
After earning degrees from Trinity College Dublin and City University London, he began his journalism career with local newspapers.
He later moved to Melody Maker, which paved the way for his appointment as editor of Smash Hits in 1986.
You will be remembered as a creative beacon
The magazine hit its peak in 1989, with sales topping one million per issue, having been steered through the mid-1980s and its peak golden years by Mr McIlheney.
From there, Mr McIlheney — following a suggestion from old Smash Hits colleague Dave Hepworth about making a film-based publication — would go on to become the founding editor of Empire in 1989, enjoying a three-year reign at the helm.
He launched issues featuring cover stars from Michael Keaton to Michelle Pfeiffer, Bruce Willis to Julia Roberts, and Tom Cruise to Spike Lee, always with the promise of delivering reviews and features on every big cinema and home entertainment release from day one.
Behind-the-scenes look at filming for How to Train Your Dragon in Northern Ireland ahead of release
Following his time at Empire, Mr McIlheney took on the role of Managing Director at EMAP Metro in 1994, overseeing prominent titles like Q, FHM, and Mojo.
He later spearheaded the launch of Heat magazine in 1999.
Barry McIlheney later transitioned into consultancy, where his extensive industry experience earned him the role of Chief Executive at the Professional Publishers Association.
Empire magazine added: 'For helping give movies the magazine they deserved, for setting the standard which each of us here at Empire strive to live up to every day, and for all that you have done for us, we thank you Barry McIlheney.
"You will be remembered as a creative beacon for the publishing industry, and as a man beloved by friends, family, and colleagues alike. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the McIlheney family and all of Barry's friends at this time.'