Salah Bachir, film media entrepreneur and philanthropist, dead at 71

Salah Bachir, philanthropist, speaks after receiving the lifetime achievement award at the 5th Annual Pride Toronto Gala & Awards, themed "Looking Back. Looking Forward", honouring individuals & organizations whose work & dedication has had a positive impact on the community, at The Carlu Wednesday June 24, 2009, in Toronto. The Canadian Press/Michael Hudson

TORONTO — Salah Bachir, one of Toronto’s most fashionable entrepreneurs and philanthropists, has died. He was 71.

A post on Bachir’s Facebook profile says he died Thursday after a prolonged illness and his husband confirmed the news in an email to The Canadian Press.

Bachir, who immigrated to Canada from Lebanon at age 10, started several film industry magazines including Videomania.

He ran theatre chain Cineplex Inc.’s media division for 15 years and served as chancellor of OCAD University in Toronto from 2017 to 2021.

The openly gay businessman, known to wear strings of pearls and other fashionable accoutrements, was sometimes nicknamed “Gala Salah” because he fundraised so voraciously for the arts, social justice, health care and the LGBTQ+ community.

The efforts led to five honorary doctorates and Order of Canada and Ontario investitures. He also had a prolific art collection, containing works by the likes of Andy Warhol, that he often lent to galleries and museums.

Bachir is survived by his husband, artist Jacob Yerex. A funeral is planned for Oct. 15 in Toronto.

“I feel as though I have lived several lives and I am profoundly grateful to the friends, family and colleagues whose support has helped me realize my dreams and make my achievements possible,” Bachir said in a pre-written Facebook post announcing his death.

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This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 9, 2026.