Remembering Eric Justen: "Elementary" & Breaking Bad's Sound Mixer - In Memoriam
What happens when a talent, celebrated for his craft, is unexpectedly silenced? The sudden passing of Eric Justen, a sound mixer known for his exceptional work on acclaimed television series, left a void in the industry and a legacy of remarkable achievements.
Eric Justen's name, synonymous with excellence in sound mixing, echoed through the halls of the entertainment world. Starting in 2008, his expertise graced a diverse array of productions, including Psych, Numbers, The Good Wife, Human Target, Unforgettable, The Mysteries of Laura, Pretty Little Liars and Elementary. His talent didn't go unnoticed; Justen received three consecutive Emmy nominations for Outstanding Sound Mixing for his work on the groundbreaking television show, Breaking Bad. His contributions to the audio landscape of these series were crucial, crafting immersive soundscapes that elevated the viewing experience.
Tragically, the industry mourned the loss of Eric Justen on August 11th, 2016. The setting for his final moments was Los Angeles, California, a place intimately tied to the world he inhabited. He was en route to celebrate his grandmother's 100th birthday, a testament to his familial connections. Justen was only in his early 40s when a sudden heart attack at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) cut short his life. This unexpected event shocked those who knew him and sent ripples of grief through the entertainment community.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Eric Justen |
| Date of Birth | N/A (Early 40s at time of death) |
| Date of Death | August 11, 2016 |
| Place of Death | Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Los Angeles, California, United States |
| Cause of Death | Heart Attack |
| Known For | Sound Mixing for Television (Breaking Bad, Elementary, etc.) |
| Notable Projects | Breaking Bad, The Good Wife, Elementary, Numbers |
| Awards/Nominations | Three-time Emmy Nominee for Outstanding Sound Mixing (Breaking Bad) |
| Character portrayal in Elementary | Dr. Ian Gazecki & Gareth Lestrade |
| Reference | IMDB - Eric Justen |
The impact of Justen's death was felt particularly within the context of Elementary, a CBS crime drama series. He wasn't just a name in the credits; he was a presence on set, a colleague, and a friend. His work on Elementary was integral, providing the necessary soundscapes that created the atmosphere of this series. He played two characters, Dr. Ian Gazecki & Gareth Lestrade. Justen's passing coincided with a pivotal narrative turn in the show. The show dedicated its first episode of season five to honor his memory. The premiere of the season introduced us to a face from Joan's past. The choice to dedicate the episode was a poignant tribute.
The character of Dr. Ian Gazecki, a medical examiner in Elementary, played by Justen, offered critical forensic insight, assisting Sherlock Holmes and Joan Watson in solving cases. Justen's character provided key forensic insights crucial to solving complex cases. His character's insights were often pivotal in resolving complex investigations, a testament to the intricacies of the show's plots. Furthermore, Justen also took on the role of Gareth Lestrade, a Scotland Yard detective who worked alongside Holmes and Watson. The duality of his contributions within the show underscored his range and talent.
The episode titled "Ein Bombengeschft (Folie Deux)," (or "Folie Deux" in English) from the series aired on October 2, 2016, in the United States and on April 12, 2018, in Germany as part of season 5, the same season that paid tribute to Justen. The episode's plot involved a bombing in Flushing, resulting in multiple deaths, a stark contrast to the more personal loss felt by the cast and crew of the show. This episode marked a significant point in the series' narrative, occurring just weeks after Justen's untimely death. It serves as a reminder of the impermanence of life.
Justens expertise extended far beyond Elementary. He was a key contributor to the acclaimed series Breaking Bad. This recognition highlighted his dedication to his craft and the quality of his work, as sound is integral to this series. His work on Breaking Bad earned him three consecutive Emmy nominations for outstanding sound mixing, acknowledging his contribution to the gritty realism of the show. The work of Eric was not limited to Breaking Bad. His diverse portfolio included shows such as The Good Wife, showcasing the breadth and scope of his abilities and the demand for his talents across varied genres.
The dedication of the first episode of Elementary season five to Eric Justen emphasized the profound effect his absence had on the show. He was in transit to his grandmothers 100th birthday when he passed away. A colleague conveyed that Justen died of a heart attack. This personal and professional loss underscored the deep connection between the team and Justen's role in the series. His work resonated with the viewers. Justen's colleagues and friends remember him fondly for his amiable and accessible character. His presence on set was a source of support, kindness, and professionalism, making him a valued member of the team.
In an era where visual storytelling is paramount, Justen's understanding of sound was fundamental to its success. "Sound needs to be felt," Justen once said, encapsulating his approach to his profession. Thats the fun part the mixing desk becomes my instrument. The faders become my fingertips. This is what made him successful. His ability to use the mixing desk as an instrument and the faders as his fingertips showed the level of passion he had for his work.
The loss of Eric Justen serves as a reminder of the impact individuals have behind the scenes. He was an integral part of the sound that made so many of the shows work well. He has left a legacy of excellence.
