Toronto Prop Master Fritz Lev Retires After 44 Years, Collection for Sale

URGENT UPDATE: After an illustrious career spanning 44 years, renowned Toronto prop master Fritz Lev is officially retiring and selling his vast collection of nearly 30,000 eclectic items. This announcement has sent shockwaves through the film and theater community, as Lev’s unique props have adorned the sets of acclaimed productions like The Handmaid’s Tale, Suits, and Murdoch Mysteries.

Lev, who has been a staple in the Toronto film industry since 1980, is known for his whimsical and diverse assortment, which includes everything from antique books and taxidermy to a jar of ears. His shop, the Prop Room, located in Leaside, Toronto, has been a treasure trove for filmmakers and set designers seeking the extraordinary.

As Lev prepares to hand over the reins, he shared, “What you see here is a collection of my life of 45 years.” The urgency of this sale cannot be overstated, as Lev hopes to find a buyer who will maintain the integrity of this unique collection, rather than sell it off piecemeal. “I really hope that someone does buy it and runs it just as it is,” he said, emphasizing the importance of his collection to the local industry.

The decision to retire comes as Lev, now 77, reflects on a career that began with just $195 in his pocket when he immigrated to Canada over 51 years ago. His passion for antiques led him from the hotel business to a flourishing enterprise, where he became known for his eye for the unusual and his ability to source rare and historical items.

“I’ve been so fortunate that I’ve had a job in my life where I enjoyed every day going to work,” Lev remarked, highlighting the joy he found in his profession. His collection, which includes a vampire hunter kit complete with holy water, is not just a business; it is a reflection of his life’s work and passions.

Lev’s retirement is not just a personal milestone but a significant moment for the Toronto film community. Set decoration buyer Alexandra Hooper, who has collaborated on projects like Guillermo del Toro’s Oscar-winning The Shape of Water, praised Lev’s collection as irreplaceable. “Finding antique books alone would be a time-consuming and expensive endeavor without his extensive catalog,” she noted.

As the industry buzzes with the news, Lev’s eclectic collection is poised to attract bidders eager to acquire these one-of-a-kind items. The sale is not just a transaction; it represents the culmination of a storied career dedicated to creativity and storytelling through props.

With Lev’s retirement, the future of the Prop Room remains uncertain. He expressed a desire for the new owner to preserve the collection’s integrity. “I think my wife is going to murder me if I don’t retire,” he joked, revealing the personal stakes of his decision.

This is an urgent call to collectors and industry insiders: Fritz Lev’s iconic collection is up for grabs, but it must be preserved. The deadline for potential buyers is looming, and the community awaits news on who will carry forward Lev’s legacy in the heart of Toronto’s vibrant film scene.

As Lev embarks on this new chapter, he leaves behind a remarkable legacy that will continue to inspire filmmakers and artists for years to come. The Prop Room stands as a testament to creativity and the enduring power of storytelling.

Stay tuned for updates on this developing story and the future of the Prop Room in Toronto.