Sy Kravitz: From Military Veteran to NBC Producer, Lenny Kravitz’s Father, Divorced Roxie Rocker Over His Affair
The film industry in the US brings about equally engaging drama in movies, TV shows, and real life. The late film and TV producer Sy Kravitz has led an intriguing life, professionally and personally.
His legacy is evident not only in his on-screen projects but also in his veteran status, relationships, and children.
In this article, I’m shedding light on the different sides of Sy Kravitz, from his early years and military service to his work with NBC and his famous son.
Who Was Sy Kravitz?
Sy Kravitz was a prominent TV and film producer and former officer in the US military. His work mainly revolved around serious journalistic news, earning him a highly credible producer reputation.
Sy Kravitz is also well-known as singer Lenny Kravitz‘s father and the ex-husband of Roxie Rocker, the famous late actress.
When Was Sy Kravitz Born?
Sy Kravitz married Roxie Alberth
Sy Kravitz was born in Brooklyn, New York, on the 10th of December, 1924. His father was Joseph Kaufman Kravitz, and his mother was Jean Kravitz.
Although Sy Kravitz was of American nationality from birth, he had Russian-Jewish roots thanks to his parents’ ethnicities.
Sy Kravitz’s father had a job in telecommunications while his mother stayed at home to take care of the kids and the household. That said, not much more information is available on the couple.
Sy Kravitz had only one other sibling, Leonard M. Kravitz. The brothers spent their childhood and youth in America under the love and support of their parents.
Sy and Leonard went off to serve the country simultaneously, having each other’s backs in the military. They were shipped off to the Korean War together, but unfortunately, only Sy managed to return alive.
As for education, Sy Kravitz graduated from Beverly Hills High School and went to college afterward. He graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Arts.
When Did Sy Kravitz Die?
Sy Kravitz passed away on the 29th of October, 2005, in New York. He was 80 years old at the time, almost one month away from turning 81.
How Did Sy Kravitz Die?
Sy Kravitz’s death was the topic of lots of speculation. It was known that he suffered for a long time from a severe illness, but not many knew exactly what it was.
Sy Kravitz reportedly had pancreatic cancer or leukemia. He fought the disease for several years before losing the battle in October 2005.
Who Is Sy Kravitz’s Son?
Sy Kravitz’s son is the famous singer, songwriter, and instrumentalist Leonard Albert Kravitz.
Sy and Lenny’s relationship as father and son wasn’t always smooth sailing. Due to his military background, Sy was often strict with his upbringing of Lenny.
In Lenny’s song “It Ain’t Over ’til It’s Over,” he expressed what his father did when he fell off his bike as a child. Instead of comforting him as he was crying, he told him he’d give him something to cry about if he didn’t stop.
At the age of 15, Lenny left home. Their rocky relationship continued until Sy was diagnosed with cancer and weakened by the disease.
This seems to have opened his eyes and led to a reconciliation with his son. Lenny wrote the song “A Long and Sad Goodbye” as a tribute to this experience.
Does Sy Kravitz Have Other Children?
Sy Kravitz has children other than Lenny Kravitz from his previous marriage to Erika.
The couple married from 1948 until 1955 and had two kids called Tedi and Laurie Kravitz.
Who Was Sy Kravitz’s Wife?
After divorcing his first wife, Erika, Sy Kravitz met actress and news anchor Roxie Albertha Rocker at 30 Rock.
The couple tied the knot in 1962 despite Sy’s parents’ objection. Together, they had Leonard on the 26th of May in 1964, which ultimately brought his grandparents to accept the marriage.
Sy’s son Leonard was named after his brother Leonard M., who died in the Korean War at 20.
Unfortunately, Sy and Roxie’s relationship went downhill over the years. The final straw was when Lenny overheard his father talking to his mistress about giving her money from his mother’s earnings as an actress.
Lenny couldn’t keep his findings a secret from Roxie and flew to the Bahamas to deliver the news face-to-face. According to Lenny, his parents’ confrontation led to Sy telling his son that “he’ll do it too” instead of admitting his wrongdoings and asking for forgiveness.
In 1985, Sy and Roxie went their separate ways.
What Did Sy Kravitz Do?
Sy Kravitz’s military career was a success as he became a sergeant in the Green Berets unit. He fought in the Korean War, World War 2, and the Vietnam War.
After leaving the army, Sy worked as a journalist and producer for the NBC news network until he retired. His projects are known for their credibility and accuracy.
What Was Sy Kravitz’s Net Worth?
Sy Kravitz had an estimated net worth of $7 to 10$ million before his death.
