Celebrated Cinematographer and "Murdoch Mysteries" Director of Photography Yuri Yakubiw Passes Away Unexpectedly

 The loss of Yuri Yakubiw, a celebrated director of photography and cinematographer best known for his extensive and significant work on CBC's Murdoch Mysteries, is being felt throughout the Canadian film and television communities. His priceless creative legacy and contributions to the show and the larger business were recently recognized in the Season 19 premiere of the series, which was dedicated "In Memoriam" to Yuri "George" Yakubiw.

In addition to being an accomplished visual storyteller, Yuri Yakubiw was a cherished coworker whose work influenced some of Canada's most well-known television shows. Yakubiw gained respect and affection from the cinema and television communities for his work throughout the course of his decades-long career, which helped define the emotional depth and visual tone of several critically acclaimed shows.

Yuri Yakubiw CSC (Canadian Society of Cinematographers), an Ontario native, joined IATSE Local 667 in 1994 after starting his career in the early 1990s. He soon had possibilities on dramatic and family-friendly plays because to his talent.

Murdoch Mysteries (as a director after serving as a director of photography for several seasons)

Sue Thomas: Eyes of F.B. (2002)

Jett Jackson, The Famous (1998)

2009–2012: Little Mosque on the Prairie

The 2008 television film Anne of Green Gables: A New Beginning

His work was frequently commended for its warmth, narrative detail, and technical accuracy. Yakubiw was a key contributor to Murdoch Mysteries' long-term success because of his ability to strike a balance between period authenticity and creative visuals. His directing debut in Season 15 further demonstrated his creative versatility and storytelling prowess.

Yakubiw's cinematography garnered him a 2009 CSC Award nomination for Anne of Green Gables: A New Beginning and three Canadian Screen Award nominations for Murdoch Mysteries, the most recent of which was in 2024. He became one of Canada's most renowned cinematographers due to his commitment to his work and his talent at capturing mood and ambiance through his images.

In addition to his professional achievements, Yakubiw had great esteem from his colleagues and peers. According to his colleagues, he is a creative force who always valued teamwork and storytelling before recognition. He is also kind, modest, and passionate about his profession.

Emerging cinematographers especially appreciated his guidance and direction, and many attribute his assistance in honing their sense of lighting, framing, and the craft of visual narrative.

A appropriate gesture for a man whose creative vision helped bring the series to life for millions of viewers, Murdoch Mysteries devoted its Season 19 premiere to Yakubiw's memory in a heartfelt homage.

His corpus of work and the people he inspired will continue to have an impact on Canadian television.

The loss of Yuri Yakubiw is significant for the Canadian entertainment sector. He leaves behind a legacy of artistic enthusiasm, human kindness, and visual excellence—qualities that not only made him an exceptional artist but also a cherished part of the cinema community.