Bob Gazzale

Bob Gazzale is the president and chief executive of the American Film Institute (AFI), where he has played a pivotal role in celebrating and preserving the legacy of American cinema. Recently, he gained attention for his comments regarding Mel Brooks' centennial birthday, during which he declared Brooks' 1974 film 'Blazing Saddles' as the funniest film of all time, a significant shift from its previous ranking. Gazzale's leadership at AFI emphasizes the importance of honoring cinematic achievements and ensuring that the contributions of influential filmmakers like Brooks are recognized and celebrated.