An icon is a widely admired person who symbolizes significant contributions. Craig Miller did all of that and more for his development and impact on the Georgia film and entertainment industry.
He was an innovator, a mentor, and an inspiration for hundreds, if not thousands, across the state of Georgia and beyond. The statement from the Georgia Film Office, through the GA Office of Economic Development, sums up part of Miller’s contributions.
Georgia’s film and tourism communities are mourning the loss of one of their greatest champions with the passing of Craig Miller, filmmaker and founder of Craig Miller Productions in 1985. Craig worked as a tireless advocate for the film industry for more than 30 years, supporting the creation of Georgia’s film tax credit and elevating the state’s tourism assets through his production company. As someone who always showed up, his influence was felt at every film and tourism-related event, and he served on numerous boards and industry organizations where his perspective and positivity were equally valued. He was a great friend and will be remembered for his infectious laugh and effervescent spirit and is deeply respected for his innumerable contributions to the State of Georgia. Craig also served as president of the Georgia Production Partnership and as a member of the Georgia Film, Music, and Digital Entertainment Commission.
Loved by all
A graduate of Hardaway High School in Columbus, GA, Craig is remembered fondly by former classmates, including Oz Roberts, now 2nd Vice President of Event Productions at Aflac.
“Craig was a producer for Aflac’s Communicorp division. I was working in graphic design for WXTX. He asked me to join the Audio-Visual Department at Aflac. That was 40 years ago, and I credit him with getting me hired which has resulted in a long run of success for me. He was also one of the kindest souls I’ve ever known,” said Roberts.
Another Hardaway alum, Ricky Steele, who also became a successful entrepreneur as the CEO of Steele Tech Ventures and, like Miller, has been a mentor for many young professionals in the Atlanta Metro area, echoed Roberts’ sentiments.
“He was one of the nicest people I’ve ever known. When Craig was a speaker at various events, I would always go listen to him. His contributions to the Georgia film and entertainment industry were remarkable, even behind the scenes. I’m just sorry that we didn’t get together more often,” said Steele.
When Craig Miller Productions engaged in producing videos for industry and trade or working on movies across the state, former police officer Mike Price coordinated the logistics for many of those projects.
“Craig was a gentleman and a scholar. I don’t know of anyone who didn’t love him,” explained Price.
Bringing films to Georgia also included serving as an Executive Producer for Neon Highway, a movie shot in and around Columbus. Price described Miller’s involvement as “A way to give back to Columbus for everything the city meant to him.”
The Columbus Film Commission, under the umbrella of Visit Columbus GA hosted a meeting in late September. That was Craig’s last trip to the city.
“He helped with our local film grant programs and reviewed scripts for potential projects. Craig was always willing to help,” said Joel Slocumb, Director of the Columbus Film Commission.
Miller was also passionate about his alma mater, the University of Georgia. He helped shine a light on college filmmakers from across the state. The Back Light Student Film Festival recognized his talent and dedication to the world of cinema.
The show must go on
His work family at Craig Miller Productions released the following statement.
We want to express our heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love, support, and kind words from across the film industry. Craig was an undeniable force—one whose talent, vision, and spirit can never be replaced.
As Craig himself would say, “the show must go on.” This week, we are taking time to grieve, reflect, and celebrate his extraordinary life and impact. Beginning next week, Craig Miller Productions will return to doing what Craig loved most, telling beautiful stories in bold, compelling ways.
While no one can fill Craig’s shoes, we are committed to carrying forward the standard he set. Craig built this company on collaboration, creativity, and community, relying on the incredible family of Atlanta talent that continues to stand strong today. In his honor, we will move Craig Miller Productions forward with the same passion and excellence that defined his life’s work.
Craig Miller passed away on October 12. He leaves behind a wife and six children, grandchildren and many others who considered him a father figure in achieving their dreams. The celebration of his life will be held Sunday, October 19 at Roswell Presbyterian Church, 755 Mimosa Blvd., in Roswell, starting with visitation from 1:30-2:30 p.m., followed by the service from 2:30-3:30 p.m.
The curtain on his life may have dropped, but Craig’s impact will provide the next act for anyone whose life he touched.
