28 Facts About William Goldman

Early Life and Education

William Goldman, a name synonymous with storytelling, had a fascinating early life that shaped his illustrious career. Let's dive into some intriguing facts about his beginnings.

1. 01Born on August 12, 1931, in Highland Park, Illinois, Goldman grew up in a Jewish family.
2. 02His father, Maurice Clarence Goldman, was a businessman whose struggles with alcoholism deeply affected William.
3. 03Goldman's mother, Marion, was a homemaker who supported his early interest in writing.
4. 04He attended Oberlin College in Ohio, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1952.
5. 05After college, he served in the U.S. Army, stationed at the Pentagon, where he wrote short stories in his spare time.
6. 06Goldman pursued a Master of Arts degree in English from Columbia University, graduating in 1956.

Writing Career

Goldman's writing career spanned multiple genres and formats, making him a versatile and prolific author. Here are some key facts about his professional journey.

7. 07His first novel, "The Temple of Gold," was published in 1957, marking the start of his literary career.
8. 08Goldman wrote "Soldier in the Rain" in 1960, which was later adapted into a film starring Steve McQueen and Jackie Gleason.
9. 09He gained fame with his 1973 novel "The Princess Bride," a unique blend of adventure, romance, and satire.
10. 10"Marathon Man," another of his novels, was published in 1974 and became a successful film starring Dustin Hoffman.
11. 11Goldman also wrote the screenplay for "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid," which won him an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay in 1969.
12. 12He earned a second Oscar for his screenplay adaptation of "All the President's Men" in 1976.

Screenwriting Success

Goldman's screenwriting prowess extended beyond his novels, contributing to some of Hollywood's most iconic films. Let's explore some notable achievements.

13. 13He wrote the screenplay for "The Stepford Wives," a 1975 thriller that has since become a cult classic.
14. 14Goldman adapted Stephen King's novel "Misery" into a screenplay, resulting in a critically acclaimed film in 1990.
15. 15His screenplay for "A Bridge Too Far" in 1977 showcased his ability to handle large-scale historical dramas.
16. 16Goldman worked on the screenplay for "Chaplin," a 1992 biographical film about Charlie Chaplin, starring Robert Downey Jr.
17. 17He contributed to the screenplay for "The Ghost and the Darkness," a 1996 adventure film based on true events.
18. 18Goldman often collaborated with director Rob Reiner, including on the beloved film adaptation of "The Princess Bride."

Influence and Legacy

Goldman's impact on literature and film is undeniable, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire. Here are some facts highlighting his influence.

19. 19His book "Adventures in the Screen Trade," published in 1983, offers an insider's look at Hollywood and remains a must-read for aspiring screenwriters.
20. 20Goldman coined the famous phrase, "Nobody knows anything," referring to the unpredictability of the film industry.
21. 21He received the Laurel Award for Screenwriting Achievement from the Writers Guild of America in 1985.
22. 22Goldman's work influenced a generation of writers, including Aaron Sorkin and J.J. Abrams.
23. 23He was known for his meticulous research, often spending months gathering information before writing a screenplay.
24. 24Goldman taught screenwriting at Princeton University, sharing his expertise with the next generation of storytellers.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Goldman's personal life and interests offer a glimpse into the man behind the stories. Here are some lesser-known facts.

25. 25He married Ilene Jones in 1961, and they had two daughters, Jenny and Susanna.
26. 26Goldman was an avid sports fan, particularly of baseball and basketball, often incorporating sports themes into his work.
27. 27He had a passion for magic tricks, a hobby that fascinated him since childhood.
28. 28Despite his success, Goldman remained humble, often attributing his achievements to luck and perseverance.

The Legacy of William Goldman

William Goldman left an indelible mark on literature and film. His works, like "The Princess Bride" and "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid," continue to captivate audiences. Goldman's knack for storytelling, combined with his sharp wit, made his screenplays and novels timeless. His famous quote, "Nobody knows anything," still resonates in Hollywood, reminding us of the unpredictability of the entertainment industry.

Goldman’s influence extends beyond his writing. He inspired countless writers and filmmakers to pursue their dreams, showing that perseverance and creativity can lead to success. His legacy is not just in the stories he told but in the passion he ignited in others. Whether you’re a fan of his books or his movies, there’s no denying the impact William Goldman had on the world of storytelling. His work will be cherished for generations to come.