A celebrated writer who helped shape some of Woody Allen's most iconic films has bid farewell to the entertainment industry.
According to Deadline, Marshall Brickman, the Academy Award-winning screenwriter known for co-writing "Annie Hall" and "Manhattan," passed away on November 29 in Manhattan at the age of 85.
His daughter, Sophie Brickman, announced his death, marking the end of a remarkable career spanning more than five decades in writing, directing, and producing for both stage and screen. The cause of death was not disclosed in the announcement.
Born on August 25, 1939, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Brickman's journey to screenwriting success took an unconventional path. Initially pursuing studies in science and music with aspirations of becoming a doctor, he found his first creative outlet in music. His musical career began when he joined The Tarriers in 1962, contributing to a banjo album that would later become the soundtrack for "Deliverance."
Before his successful collaboration with Woody Allen, Brickman honed his writing skills on various television shows. He wrote for popular programs including "Candid Camera," "The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson," and "The Dick Cavett Show." This television experience would prove invaluable in his later career.
The partnership with Allen proved transformative for both artists. Their first collaboration on the 1973 sci-fi comedy "Sleeper" set the stage for their most celebrated work together. The duo's creative synergy reached its peak with "Annie Hall," earning them both an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.
Brickman's versatility as a creator extended beyond his collaborations with Allen. He demonstrated his directorial abilities with films such as "Simon" (1980), featuring Alan Arkin, and "Lovesick" (1983) with Dudley Moore and Elizabeth McGovern. His 1986 film "The Manhattan Project," starring John Lithgow, further showcased his range as a filmmaker.
His contribution to television included co-writing the pilot for what would eventually become "The Muppet Show" (1976-'81). The pilot, originally titled "The Muppet Show: Sex and Violence," helped establish one of television's most beloved series.
In his later career, Brickman found success in musical theater. He wrote the books for Broadway productions, including "Jersey Boys" (2005) and "The Addams Family" (2010). His work on "Jersey Boys" continued when he reunited with collaborator Rick Elice for Clint Eastwood's 2014 film adaptation.
Through his diverse body of work, Brickman demonstrated remarkable adaptability across different entertainment mediums. His collaborations with Woody Allen produced some of cinema's most memorable films, including "Manhattan" (1979), which earned them another Oscar nomination, and their final project together, "Manhattan Murder Mystery" (1993).
The impact of Brickman's work continues to resonate in contemporary cinema and theater. His ability to move seamlessly between comedy, drama, and musical theater demonstrated a rare versatility in the entertainment industry. His contributions to Broadway with "Jersey Boys" and "The Addams Family" helped bring these productions to new audiences.
Marshall Brickman's passing marks the end of a remarkable career that spanned music, television, film, and theater. The Oscar-winning screenwriter died in Manhattan on November 29, leaving behind a legacy of work that includes some of cinema's most celebrated films and successful Broadway productions.
His journey from a Brazilian-born aspiring doctor to an accomplished writer and director exemplifies the unpredictable path of creative success. Brickman's collaborations with Woody Allen, particularly their Oscar-winning work on "Annie Hall," remain significant contributions to American cinema.
