Harvey Elkin, 70; Managed Comedians in L.A. and New York

Harvey Elkin, 70, manager for comedians in New York and later Los Angeles, died Tuesday in St. Joseph’s Hospital of pneumonia.

Elkin had represented several young comedians when they were just starting their careers, and particularly encouraged minority stand-up artists. Among his clients were Damon Wayans, George Lopez and Paul Rodriguez.

Elkin also formed a production partnership with his friend, actor Barry Newman, of such films as “Pretty Boy Floyd” and the television series “Petrocelli.” They named it Bean & Cod Productions, in deference to their Boston roots.

The company sought to develop television movies, including biographical productions of such figures as the late composer Leonard Bernstein.