RED’s founder Jim Jannard has just turned 70 and has announced that he is retiring due to his age and a few health issues.
I have spent the past 45 years building “inventions wrapped in art”.
Just now turning 70 and having a few health issues, it is now time for me to retire.I will be shutting down the HYDROGEN project, ending a career that has included Oakley, RED Digital Cinema and HYDROGEN. I am very proud to have worked with many great people over the years who have signed on to the vision.
RED Digital Cinema will continue stronger than ever with Jarred, Tommy and Jamin at the controls. Komodo is about to be launched… and the HYDROGEN One will continue to be supported in the future.
I want to thank everyone for the support I have felt over the years…
Jim Jannard, RED Founder
No matter what you think of the company and the people behind it, RED cameras have played a big part in the industry since launching in 1999, pushing the boundaries of resolution and RAW capabilities.
HYDROGEN Shutdown
Back in July, we reported that HYDROGEN TWO was in the works, so it’s interesting to hear that the project has been completely shut down. While the HYDROGEN project has been shut down, Jim does mention that the HYDROGEN One will continue to be supported so perhaps there is still some glimmer of hope for current HYDROGEN owners.
The shutdown of the HYDROGEN project also explains the 50% price drop on the phones with the Titanium model now selling for $895 and the standard for $645 USD.
All in on KOMODO
It’s no secret that RED has been working on the KOMODO, stating that is is about to be launched. How soon is anyone’s guess with the market becoming more crowded as time goes on?
With the KOMODO set to launch, maybe we will still see some of the HYDROGEN tech still make its way to market through the RED camera ecosystem
Jim leaves RED in the hands of Jarred Land (RED President), Tommy Rios (RED Executive Vice President) and Jamin Jannard (RED President of Marketing & Creative)
Here is what RED President had to say about Jim’s retirement:
Jim is one of the greatest visionaries of our time… and he has accomplished more than most leaders do in a lifetime. Over and Over again. He taught me everything I know, and as sad of a day as this initially may be, I am filled with joy that he finally is taking time to enjoy life.
Jarred Land, RED President
For RED CAMERA owners/users and fans, nothing changes over here. Jim will continue to smack me on the side of the head when I need it, and his ideas and direction will still flow into this company for years to come. We have prepared for this, and we are stronger than ever.
Thanks Jim, for everything.
