Who Was Nancy Seltzer?
Nancy Seltzer, the longtime publicist and close friend of Garth Brooks, passed away on Wednesday, January 28, at the age of 79.
A native of New York, Seltzer began her career on the East Coast before relocating to Los Angeles, where she became a powerful presence in the entertainment industry. She later founded Nancy Seltzer & Associates, which eventually operated offices on both coasts.
Over the decades, Seltzer represented an extraordinary roster of clients across music and film. In addition to Brooks, her clients included Sean Connery, Whitney Houston, Robert Downey Jr., Richard Burton, Bette Davis, Julia Roberts, Nicole Kidman, and Annette Bening, among many others.
According to Variety, Seltzer played a key role in the promotion of numerous landmark films, including When Harry Met Sally…, A Few Good Men, and the Pirates of the Caribbean series. She also represented Misery, The Silence of the Lambs, and The Shawshank Redemption, among others.
Nancy Seltzer, Veteran Publicist for Garth Brooks, Sean Connery and More, Dies at 79 https://t.co/SEiGhGXc1y
— Variety (@Variety) January 29, 2026
Beyond her client work, Seltzer served for several years as the head publicist for the Academy Awards red carpet, overseeing one of Hollywood’s most visible media operations.
In a statement, her firm described her as someone defined by trust and loyalty. They noted that Seltzer built lasting relationships around the world and was known for her kindness, warmth, and fierce dedication to those she represented.
Seltzer was preceded in death by her parents, Nathan and Anne Seltzer, as well as her brother, Norman Seltzer. Those wishing to honor her memory may make a donation to the Tower Cancer Research Foundation.
Garth Brooks Remembers Nancy Seltzer
Brooks confirmed Seltzer’s passing in a statement shared on his official website, remembering her as a woman of “gravitas” and “grace.”
“Nancy Seltzer never sought the spotlight,” the statement read. “Though she was widely regarded as one of the most respected publicists in the business, her instinct was always to protect others rather than promote herself.”
The tribute highlighted her deep commitment to confidentiality, noting that she often declined opportunities to speak publicly about her clients — even after their deaths — out of respect for the trust they placed in her.
“She wore publicist black like a uniform,” the statement continued, “and kept the focus exactly where she believed it belonged: on her clients. Her integrity was contagious. Her protective instincts were legendary — maternal, fierce, and unwavering.”
Brooks added his own reflection, saying, “Public relations is the hardest job in show business. She handled every situation with absolute class.”
The statement concluded by noting that Seltzer’s absence will be deeply felt — not just for the work she did, but for the way she carried herself while doing it.
While the cause of death has not been publicly disclosed, Brooks’ statement shared that she passed away following a brief hospital stay.
Nancy Seltzer leaves behind a legacy defined by discretion, loyalty, and quiet excellence — a rare combination in an industry built on attention.