Richard Matheson
- Born:
- February 20, 1926, Allendale, New Jersey, USA
- Died:
- June 23, 2013, Calabasas, California, USA
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Author, Screenwriter
Early Life and Education
- Born to Norwegian immigrant parents.
- Grew up in Brooklyn, New York.
- Graduated from Brooklyn Technical High School in 1943.
- Served in the U.S. Army during World War II.
- Earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from the University of Missouri in 1949.
Career and Major Achievements
- Began his writing career in the 1950s, primarily in science fiction, fantasy, and horror.
- Adapted many of his works for television and film.
- Wrote scripts for The Twilight Zone, including the iconic "Nightmare at 20,000 Feet."
- Received the World Fantasy Award for Life Achievement in 1984.
- Inducted into the Science Fiction Hall of Fame in 2010.
Notable Works
- Novels:
- I Am Legend (1954) - This landmark novel has inspired numerous film adaptations, and its influence on the vampire and zombie genres is significant. Understanding the impact of the I Am Legend book biography requires examining its recurring themes of isolation, societal collapse, and the redefinition of normalcy.
- The Shrinking Man (1956)
- Hell House (1971)
- What Dreams May Come (1978)
- Short Story Collections:
- Born of Man and Woman (1954)
- Shock Waves (1970)
Filmography (Selected)
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1957 | The Incredible Shrinking Man | Screenwriter (based on his novel) |
| 1960-1964 | The Twilight Zone | Writer (multiple episodes) |
| 1971 | Duel | Writer |
| 1973 | The Legend of Hell House | Screenwriter (based on his novel) |
| 1978 | What Dreams May Come | Author (novel) |
| 2007 | I Am Legend | Author (novel) |
Legacy and Impact
Richard Matheson is considered a master of science fiction, fantasy, and horror. His work has had a profound influence on literature, film, and television. His themes of isolation, fear, and the fragility of human existence continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.