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Bradford Brown Obituary
October 21, 1934 – May 12, 2025
Bradford N. Brown, a pioneering force in the world of entertainment marketing and a beloved figure in the Los Angeles creative community, passed away peacefully on May 12, 2025, at the age of 90.
Born and raised in Carthay Circle, Los Angeles, Brad graduated from Los Angeles High School and later attended Menlo College and UCLA Extension, where he nurtured a lifelong passion for film. To support himself during his studies, he worked as a background actor, appearing in numerous productions-including a notable role as the first on-screen centurion in Spartacus.
While working at a Pepsi bottling plant, Brad had a visionary idea: to integrate Pepsi products into films. Though initially met with skepticism by studio executives, his persistence paid off when a prop master on a then-unknown film agreed to place a can of Pepsi in a scene. That film was Flashdance, and its success marked the beginning of a new era in product placement. Brad's ability to connect with behind-the-scenes professionals and his warm smile helped him secure placements in iconic films such as Back to the Future and Star Wars.
In 1980, Brad co-founded Davie-Brown Entertainment, a trailblazing agency in the field of entertainment marketing. The company was later acquired by Omnicom Group and became part of The Marketing Arm, continuing to influence the industry with innovative brand integrations.
Brad also served his country in the United States Army as part of the 47th Infantry Regiment, stationed in Germany.
Known for his kindness, creativity, and unwavering belief in the power of storytelling, Brad left an indelible mark on both the film and advertising industry and those who knew him personally. He is survived by his nephew, Doug Thomson.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Bradford Brown
Mark Wade
December 24, 2025
Brad was a great guy and helped me out on Flashdance as I was the propertymaster on that film. His death is a great loss to the industry. My wife and I treasured his friendship over the years. He was a true gentleman, God speed.
CarolLaabs
December 5, 2025
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Jan Darlington
November 15, 2025
My deepest condolences to you and your family, I truly loved knowing Brad since I was 29, Im now 70..
Many great memories of Film, Dinner, Working at designing both Marina Del Rey homes..
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Carol Laabs
August 15, 2025
I have been friends with Brad for 47 years. I am sorry to hear of his passing. He was a kind, caring and loving man. I have many fond memories with Brad.
Carol Laabs
August 15, 2025
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Tom Meyer
May 19, 2025
On behalf of the many people who passed through Davie Brown Entertainment and whose lives were positively impacted by Brad, we thank Brad (and his co-founder Jim Davie) for creating a company where we all grew, thrived and had a tremendous amount of fun as many of us began our careers in business and entertainment marketing. Brad´s vast experience, and his kind nature, were always available with an open door to talk shop and industry history including some great stories that Brad was very involved in. We are all the better for our experiences at DBE and our friendship with him. Thank you Brad and may you rest in peace.
Bill Finkelstein
May 17, 2025
I was fortunate enough to have known Brad for some 40 years. We worked closely together at Pepsi and Brad was a pleasure to work with: smart, innovative, responsible, and responsive with great interpersonal skills. After I moved to L.A., we continued with our friendship, often meeting for lunch where Brad would regale me with his stories. He was a lovely man and a true gentleman and I will miss him.
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