Ken Russell Dead: Controversial Director Helmed the Who's 'Tommy' Film

Ken Russell, the prominent and envelope-pushing director of the Who's rock opera 'Tommy' has passed away at the age of 84. The Wrap reports that the filmmaker died in his sleep on Sunday, Nov. 28.

"Among many achievements that spring to mind, he made British cinema less insular and self-referential," critic Norman Lebrecht wrote of Russell's passing on ArtsJournal. "He was also a leading creative force in the history of British television. He will be widely mourned."

Besides helming the Oscar-nominated 'Women in Love,' the director also worked widely with many British musicians. In 1975, Russell took charge of the Who's 'Tommy' and later worked with lead singer Roger Daltrey on 'Lisztomania,' a film about composer Franz List.

In recent years, the 84-year-old movie man had been the subject of tabloid fodder after quitting British reality show 'Big Brother.' Despite his row with the press, Russell will forever be remembered as an integral part of modern British film.