Home / Arts and Entertainment / Video Pioneer Austin Furst Dies at 82
Video Pioneer Austin Furst Dies at 82
30 Mar
Summary
- Austin Furst, founder of Vestron Video, passed away on March 25, 2026.
- Vestron Video distributed 'Making Michael Jackson's Thriller' and 'Dirty Dancing'.
- Furst also founded Natural World and Furst Properties.
Austin Furst, the innovative entrepreneur behind Vestron Video, passed away on March 25, 2026, at the age of 82 due to complications from heart failure. His career began with significant roles at Procter & Gamble and Time Inc., contributing to the launch of People magazine and the expansion of HBO's programming.
In 1981, Furst established Vestron Video, a company that revolutionized the home video market. Vestron distributed the seminal "Making Michael Jackson's Thriller" documentary in 1983 and later produced the globally successful film "Dirty Dancing" in 1987. The company went public on the NYSE in 1985.
After financial challenges led to Vestron's sale, Furst founded Natural World, a company focused on eco-friendly consumer products. He later relocated to Scottsdale, Arizona, and developed a passion for real estate, establishing Furst Properties, which he managed until his final days.
Born in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, on August 31, 1943, Furst was an alumnus of The Hill School and Lehigh University. He is survived by his wife, Leslie Fitler Furst, three daughters, eight grandchildren, and his brother, Stephen Furst.
