The following was written by Kirsten Carthew (CFC 2004, USC 2010)

It is with great sadness that we share news of the passing of Jeff Watson. Jeff combined the calm warmth of grandpa energy with the genius of innovation and play. He participated in the 2004 screenwriters’ lab at the CFC, where he genuinely stood out in his understated humble way and was loved by all. His talent was obvious – even brilliant. His passion for exploration drove him to pursue an academic career at the University of Southern California. He achieved his PhD (2011) in media arts and practice, and his dissertation Reality Ends Here, was awarded the 2012 Impact Award from the IndieCade International Festival of Independent Games. From 2013 to 2014, Jeff served as assistant professor in the Digital Futures program at OCAD University of Toronto, where he cofounded the Situation Lab. Thereafter, Jeff routed back to USC to become a most-popular and well-loved assistant professor of interactive media and games at the USC School of Cinematic Arts and an associate faculty member with the USC Game Innovation Lab.

Jeff – Bless you. May your venture into the beyond be wildly to your liking.

To Jeff’s family – especially his wife, sister and cats, please accept our love and condolences.

Share this post: