It would seem almost preordained that the son of legendary studio head Darryl F. Zanuck would pursue a career in the film industry. While still in college, Richard D Zanuck began working in the story department at 20th Century-Fox and immediately after graduating was appointed as vice president of Darryl F. Zanuck Productions. He trained in film work assisting his famous father on "The Sun Also Rises" (1956) and "Islands in the Sun" (1957) before producing his first feature, "Compulsion" (1959), at age 24. Zanuck followed with two uneven but fairly prestigious productions: "Sanctuary" (1961),
Began working in story department of 20th Century-Fox
1956
Served as vice president of Darryl F Zanuck Productions with responsibilities for US operations; also worked as assistant to his father when the elder Zanuck produced "The Sun Also Rises" (1956) and "Islands in the Sun" (1957)
1959
Debuted as producer with "Compulsion"
1962
Was assistant to his producer-father on "The Longest Day"
