J. Michael Cline, Fandango Co-Founder, Dies in a Tragic Fall

J. Michael Cline, the visionary co-founder of Fandango, the online movie ticketing giant, passed away after falling from a Manhattan hotel. Cline’s passing marks the end of an era in the online ticketing and tech startup world. He was known for his entrepreneurial spirit and his keen eye for identifying promising startups.

• Cline was 64 years old and a resident of Palm Beach, Florida.
• He was found unresponsive in the Kimberly Hotel in midtown Manhattan on Tuesday morning.

Fandango's Legacy: Revolutionizing Movie Ticketing

Cline co-founded Fandango in 1999, along with his chief operating officer Art Levitt. The company quickly became a household name by offering a convenient way for Americans to purchase movie tickets online. It was a game-changer in the movie ticketing industry, eliminating the need for long lines at box offices.

• Fandango's success can be attributed to its user-friendly interface and its ability to provide customers with real-time information on showtimes and ticket availability.
• The company thrived in the early 2000s, outcompeting its main rival, MovieTickets.com.
• Cline’s innovative approach to online ticketing and his business acumen helped establish Fandango as the leading online movie ticketing platform.

From Fandango to a Venture Capital Giant: Cline's Diverse Ventures

Cline’s entrepreneurial spirit extended far beyond Fandango. He also founded Accretive, a venture capital firm, in 1999. He was a key player in the world of healthcare technology, investing in companies like Tend, Nectar, and Great Jones through his firm Juxtapose.

• Cline’s investments in healthcare technology showcased his foresight in identifying disruptive technologies.
• Throughout his career, he founded or co-founded a number of startups, including R1 RCM, Accumen, Accolade, Everspring, Dresr, and Insureon.
• His expertise in the tech sector was evident in his leadership positions at companies like Accretive and Juxtapose.

Cline's Impact on the Online Ticketing Landscape

Cline’s vision and leadership helped shape the landscape of online ticketing. He was one of the pioneers who brought the convenience and accessibility of online ticketing to the masses. His contributions to the industry extend far beyond Fandango, with his influence felt in the broader digital ticketing market.

• Cline's innovative approach to online ticketing helped to transform the way consumers purchase tickets for a wide range of events, from movies to concerts and sporting events.
• He helped pave the way for the growth of the online ticketing industry, which is now estimated to be worth $37 billion.
• His legacy will be remembered for his vision, his entrepreneurship, and his unwavering commitment to innovation in the tech sector.