J. Michael Cline, the wealthy co-founder of movie ticket firm Fandango and a prominent philanthropist, tragically ended his life this week by leaping from a luxury hotel in Midtown Manhattan. Law enforcement sources confirmed on Wednesday that the 64-year-old “serial entrepreneur” jumped from the 20th floor of the Kimberly Hotel, landing in a third-floor courtyard on Tuesday morning.
Cline, who was also a managing partner at the startup funding firm Accretive, left an apparent suicide note before his fatal jump from the building located on East 50th Street near Lexington Avenue. The contents of the note have not been disclosed, but the incident has left those who knew him in shock. The tragedy occurred only days after Cline had undergone gallbladder surgery, which may have contributed to his state of mind.
Cline’s death is a significant loss to the entrepreneurial and philanthropic communities. He was known for his work in various fields, including technology, insurance, and education. In addition to co-founding Fandango, Cline founded the tech solutions firm R1 RCM, the small business insurance firm Insureon, and the education solutions company Everspring. His entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to innovation earned him a reputation as a visionary leader who inspired many.
Cline’s influence extended beyond his business ventures. He was a graduate of Cornell University and held an MBA from Harvard University. His achievements and insights were highlighted in a recent Fordham University article, which described him as a “serial entrepreneur” who motivated students to dream big and emphasized the importance of working with trustworthy people. His contributions to academia and the encouragement he provided to aspiring entrepreneurs were significant parts of his legacy.
Cline was also deeply committed to environmental conservation and wildlife protection. As the chairman of the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, he spearheaded preservation efforts for animals around the globe. His dedication to protecting tigers and other endangered species showcased his passion for making a positive impact on the world.
Despite having cut ties with Fandango long ago, the company’s struggles during the COVID-19 pandemic may have weighed on him. Fandango faced significant challenges as movie theater attendance plummeted, and the company’s attempt to pivot to streaming met with limited success. The financial difficulties experienced by NBC-Universal, Fandango’s parent company, which saw profits in the category representing Fandango fall by 40.8% in 2020, may have added to Cline’s burdens.
Cline’s personal life was marked by luxury and family. He owned multimillion-dollar homes in Greenwich, Connecticut; the Hamptons; and Palm Beach, Florida. In December 2020, he and his wife purchased a sprawling lakefront property in Palm Beach for $20.75 million. Cline married his wife, Pamela, in 1995, and they had six children together.
Friends, family, and colleagues are left grappling with the loss of a man who was described as a source of inspiration and strength. His obituary highlights his professional achievements and his compassionate nature. As the community mourns his passing, there is a collective emphasis on the importance of seeking help for those in crisis.
Cline’s legacy as an entrepreneur and philanthropist will be remembered for his contributions to various industries and his dedication to conservation. His untimely death serves as a poignant reminder of the unseen struggles that even the most successful individuals can face. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please reach out for help and support.
