Overview
- Justin Hardy, 61, died of a reported heart attack on Friday, July 31, 2026, a fact confirmed by multiple outlets and a family statement.
- Wrath of the Gods is complete, has been dedicated to Caroline Hardy, and remains scheduled for its world premiere at FrightFest in London on August 28.
- The project grew from six sacks of material found in Robin Hardy’s archive and was documented by Justin and his half‑brother Dominic in the 2024 film and book Children of the Wicker Man.
- Hardy had nearly 50 directing and producing credits across history and current‑affairs work, including Emmy and BAFTA‑nominated projects and films for the BBC, Channel 4 and CNN.
- Hardy’s family described him as ‘devastated’ and ‘so full of life,’ and industry groups have posted tributes; festival programmers and distributors will now present the completed film without its director, a change that may shape how audiences and critics respond.