Licensing Industry Mourns the Loss of Lester Borden

Lester Borden spent most of his licensing career working for Columbia Pictures, including different periods when The Coca-Cola Company and Sony owned the studio. During his distinguished tenure as head of licensing, he orchestrated a myriad of successful licensing programs spanning film, stage adaptations, television and video game properties, including “Close Encounters of the Third Kind,” “The Karate Kid,” “Bram Stoker’s Dracula,” “Annie,” “The Three Stooges” and “Q*bert.” The Marvel franchise also sat within his licensing portfolio at one stage.

To his many industry friends and peers, Borden was “one of the good guys” of licensing. He was wildly passionate about the business and a consummate salesperson with a talent for marketing. He was always fun to be around and innately curious in a good-natured way. While Borden had no difficulty making his presence known, he was reverential and kind. He was generous with his vast experience and did not hesitate to share his knowledge with colleagues of all ages. Through licensing, he became a part of the entertainment industry, and this long-standing association brought him much joy and satisfaction.

Health challenges during recent years led to an unfortunate and early passing. Borden will be sorely missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts and minds of the many who adored, respected and loved him.