Remembering Esmond Vyvyan Harmsworth: A Literary Luminary
Aevitas Creative Management co-CEOs Todd Shuster and David Kuhn have expressed their profound sorrow over the sudden passing of Esmond Vyvyan Harmsworth, the agency’s president, who died at the age of 57 on April 9, 2025. Harmsworth tragically passed away from natural causes while on holiday in Mauritius with his family.
A Life of Enrichment
Returning to London from a lengthy stay in Boston, Harmsworth is survived by his husband, Jérome Buet Harmsworth, their two children, Alfred and Liliane, and a large extended family. A celebration honoring Harmsworth’s contributions to the literary world is set to take place during the upcoming summer.
Industry Impact and Legacy
Aevitas Creative Management released a heartfelt statement acknowledging Harmsworth’s impact: “Esmond was beloved by all of us at ACM and the global literary community. He was known for his boundless generosity, brilliant editorial and legal acumen, quick humor and a bottomless well of historical and literary knowledge.”
His voracious reading habit allowed him to enjoy works from diverse genres at an impressive pace, often exceeding three books a day, covering everything from science fiction and magical realism to non-fiction and personal biographies.
“Esmond was a consummate intellectual and a beloved representative of numerous authors globally, embodying the spirit of a true bon vivant,” remarked Todd Shuster. “Through his roles as a literary agent, philanthropist, and advocate, he touched thousands of lives and contributed significantly to the world.”
David Kuhn echoed these sentiments, describing Harmsworth as “the literal embodiment of the word gentleman: chivalrous, courteous, and honorable.” His passion for literary work mirrored the affection that authors and colleagues held for him.
Professional Milestones
A graduate of Harvard Law School in 1996, Harmsworth co-founded the Zachary Shuster Harmsworth Literary Agency in Boston with Lane Zachary and Todd Shuster. The agency later merged with Kuhn Projects in 2016, forming Aevitas Creative Management, one of the largest independent literary agencies in the United States.
Over nearly thirty years, Harmsworth represented a wide array of authors in genres including serious non-fiction, literary fiction, and mysteries. Notable works he represented include:
- The Breakthrough Company by Keith R. McFarland
- The Smartest Kids in the World by Amanda Ripley
- The Gates of Evangeline by Hester Young
- Farrell Covington and the Limits of Style by Paul Rudnick
- Bottomland by Michelle Hoover and thrillers by Craig Russell
A Philanthropic Champion
In addition to his literary pursuits, Harmsworth was a dedicated philanthropist. Through his charitable foundation, he supported various causes including the literary arts, free expression, and LGBTQ+ rights, notably advocating for marriage equality. Harmsworth was recognized as a benefactor of organizations such as the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, GLAAD, and GrubStreet, a nonprofit aimed at fostering writers from all backgrounds.
Each year, he sponsored the Esmond Harmsworth lecture at Oxford University’s Rothermere American Institute, further cementing his legacy in the literary and educational communities.
A Vibrant Personality
Known for his extravagant gatherings, Harmsworth’s celebrations often included orchestral performances, burlesque, synchronized swimming, and memorable dance floor moments, showcasing his lively personality. He traveled extensively, engaging in activities from backpacking in India to skiing in the Alps, and was a champion duplicate bridge player and an avid open-water swimmer.
Amanda Ripley, an author who worked with Harmsworth for over two decades, shared: “Esmond transformed my understanding of new books and my own ideas. He made the publishing process enjoyable and accessible for many.”
As we reflect on the life of Esmond Vyvyan Harmsworth, his contributions to literature, philanthropy, and his loved ones will endure as a testament to a truly remarkable individual.