Tammie Rosen, Adored Sundance Communications Leader and Film Festival Fixture, Dies at 49

Tammie Rosen, a revered figure in the indie film community, dynamic publicist, and lifelong Bruce Springsteen enthusiast, has died at the age of 49 following a battle with cancer. She was deeply admired by colleagues and friends for her energy, dedication, and kindness.

Rosen most recently held the position of Chief Communications Officer at the Sundance Institute, joining in 2020. During her tenure, she navigated the organization and the Sundance Film Festival through pandemic challenges, virtual events, the return of in-person festivities, and the upcoming 2027 move of the festival to Boulder, Colorado.

Prior to Sundance, Rosen served as Executive Vice President of Communications and Programming at the Tribeca Film Festival from 2007 to 2019. Between these roles, she embarked on a solo journey lasting nearly five months across the United States and Southeast Asia, visiting 11 countries and 48 cities. She documented the adventure on Instagram, inspiring many within the film industry. She wrote in March 2020: I pushed myself into experiences I had read about, wanted to have, doubted I could do, and I went for it! The only way to live is to go experience life.

Rosen publicly shared her cancer diagnosis in May 2025 and subsequently stepped back from her work at Sundance to focus on treatment. She cherished her family, the beach, Bruce Springsteen, the Philadelphia Eagles, and the communal joy of cinema. Her warmth, humor, and organizational skill made her a beloved presence among filmmakers and journalists alike.

All of us at Sundance Institute are profoundly saddened by the passing of Tammie Rosen following a courageous battle with cancer, said Ebs Burnough, Chair of the Sundance Institute Board. Tammie was an exceptional leader whose integrity, empathy, and dedication will leave a lasting mark. She connected and inspired with heart, intelligence, and joy, and her generosity and laughter will be remembered by all who knew her.

Tribeca founders Robert De Niro and Jane Rosenthal also expressed their condolences: We are deeply saddened by Tammie Rosens passing. As EVP of Communications and Programming from 2007 to 2019, Tammies passion, dedication, and love for the arts helped shape Tribeca into a global festival. Her friendship, humor, and commitment to storytelling were unparalleled.

Rosens funeral will take place in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, on Friday, December 5 at 10:30 a.m. ET, with a live stream available. Shiva observances will follow, with details to be announced. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Temple Beth Sholom, the Kenneth Rosen Endowment Fund, or the American Cancer Society.

Author: Gavin Porter