Prolific writer behind iconic films and novels, including the Academy Award-winning screenplay for "On the Waterfront" and the novel "What Makes Sammy Run?"
Budd Schulberg, born Seymour Wilson Schulberg, was an American screenwriter, television producer, novelist, and sports writer, best known for his Academy Award-winning screenplay for On the Waterfront (1954) and his novels What Makes Sammy Run? (1941) and The Harder They Fall (1947).
Schulberg was born on March 27, 1914, into a Jewish family in New York City. His father, B.P. Schulberg, was a Hollywood film producer, and his mother, Adeline Jaffe Schulberg, founded a talent agency later taken over by her brother, agent and film producer Sam Jaffe. Schulberg's parents divorced in 1933, after his father left the family to live with actress Sylvia Sidney. He attended Deerfield Academy and later Dartmouth College, where he was actively involved in the Dartmouth Jack-O-Lantern humor magazine and was a member of the Pi Lambda Phi fraternity.
In 1939, Schulberg collaborated on the screenplay for Winter Carnival, a light comedy set at Dartmouth. During World War II, he served in the Navy and was assigned to the Office of Strategic Services (OSS), working with John Ford's documentary unit, the Field Photographic Branch. Following VE Day, he witnessed the liberation of Nazi concentration camps and was involved in gathering evidence against war criminals for the Nuremberg Trials.
Schulberg's novel What Makes Sammy Run? (1941) was a critical and commercial success, exploring the dark side of Hollywood ambition. His novel The Harder They Fall (1947) was later adapted into a film starring Humphrey Bogart. Schulberg's screenplay for On the Waterfront (1954), directed by Elia Kazan, won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. He also wrote the screenplay for A Face in the Crowd (1957), directed by Kazan.
Schulberg's work often explored themes of social justice, morality, and the human condition. His experiences during World War II, particularly witnessing the liberation of concentration camps, deeply affected him and influenced his writing. He believed in the power of storytelling to expose injustice and promote positive change.
Budd Schulberg's contributions to American literature and cinema have left a lasting impact on the industry. His work continues to inspire writers and filmmakers, and his commitment to social justice and morality remains a testament to his character.
Schulberg passed away on August 5, 2009, leaving behind a legacy of critically acclaimed novels and screenplays that continue to captivate audiences today.
Born in 1909
A pioneering filmmaker who directed iconic movies like "On the Waterfront" and "East of Eden," and was a key figure in the development of the Actors Studio.
Born in 1924
A cultural icon who revolutionized acting with his intense, nuanced performances, earning him numerous accolades, including two Oscars. He's synonymous with iconic roles in "A Streetcar Named Desire" and "The Godfather".
95 Years Old
Iconic actor of 1950s Hollywood, symbolizing youthful rebellion and nonconformity through memorable roles in "Rebel Without a Cause," "East of Eden," and "Giant."
Born in 1925
A decorated World War II veteran turned actor, known for his intense, brooding performances in films like "In the Heat of the Night" and "On the Waterfront".
Born in 1924
Academy Award-winning actress renowned for her iconic roles in classic Hollywood films, including "On the Waterfront" and "North by Northwest".
Born in 1912
Academy Award-winning actor, known for his distinctive nose and powerful performances in films like "A Streetcar Named Desire" and TV's "The Streets of San Francisco".
Born in 1911
A veteran actor of stage and screen, he's renowned for his powerful, intense performances in classic films like "12 Angry Men" and "On the Waterfront".
