Irvin Kershner
Director
Director of the classic science fiction film Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back.
He was an instructor at the University of Southern California film school and a mentor to George Lucas, who approached him to direct the Star Wars sequel.
He originally turned down Lucas' offer, but relented after assurances he would have complete directorial control.
He grew up in Philadephia, Pennsylvania.
He directed the James Bond film Never Say Never Again starring Sean Connery and Kim Basinger.