William Goldman died today. (Look him up) He was a truly amazing screen writer. Many years ago I read his book “Adventures in the Screen Trade”, and it changed my whole perspective on how to tell a story. So inspiring. Thank you Mr. Goldman, for showing so many of us the way. RIP
— Bryan Cranston (@BryanCranston) November 17, 2018
Very sad about Bill Goldman
He was absolutely wonderful company. He knew more about movies than anyone I ever met
Of all his many his films, the one he loved the most was Princess Bride
That says a lot about him
— John Cleese (@JohnCleese) November 16, 2018
Goldman was born to a Jewish family in Chicago in 1931. He came to prominence in the sixties with hit detective film Harper (1966) starring Paul Newman.
Its success led to him receiving $400,000 (€350,000) to sell his script for Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969) – the highest price paid for an original screenplay at the time. Despite initial lukewarm reviews from critics, the Western became the highest grossing film of the year and netted him his first writing Oscar.
William Goldman was huge part Of creating some of the seminal movies of the 70’s and beyond. His book on screenwriting was a touchstone for me and I always felt star struck and intimidated seeing him at Knicks games. #RESPECT https://t.co/ED9HUJc50R
— Ben Stiller (@RedHourBen) November 16, 2018
So sorry to hear of the passing of William Goldman. He was both witty and talented. His screenplay of my book MISERY was a beautiful thing. Rest In Peace, Bill.
— Stephen King (@StephenKing) November 16, 2018
In the seventies, Goldman found hits with The Princess Bride (1973), Marathon Man (1974), and All the President’s Men (1977).
Goldman also wrote the screenplay for science-fiction horror The Stepford Wives (1975), which became a cult hit in the years since, and Stephen King adaptation Misery (1986), which earned lead actress Kathy Bates an Academy Award.
His death drew tributes from big names in Hollywood, including Princess Bride director Rob Reiner, who said the news “made me cry”.
“My favorite book of all time is The Princess Bride. I was honored he allowed me to make it into a movie,” he added.
Comedy star Ben Stiller said: “William Goldman was huge part Of creating some of the seminal movies of the 70’s and beyond. His book on screenwriting was a touchstone for me.”
