Bob Rafelson, Monkees co-creator and ‘Five Easy Pieces’ director, dies at 89

The film credits of Bob Rafelson (pictured in 1981) include “Head,” “The King of Marvin Gardens” and “Mountains of the Moon.” (AP Photos)

Bob Rafelson, a co-creator of “The Monkees” who became an influential figure in the New Hollywood era of the 1970s, has died. He was 89.

The “Five Easy Pieces” director died Saturday night at his home in Aspen surrounded by his family, said his wife, Gabrielle Taurek Rafelson.