Writer of Haunted Science Fiction and Horror Richard Matheson passed away at age 87 years old. He is survived by his wife Ruth Ann Woodson and his three children. The writer was born in Allendale New Jersey by Norwegian Immigrant parents. He was raised in Brooklyn and served in World War II.
His writings have become timeless classics spanning fans in various generations. His written work I Am Legend was adapted onto screen three times, most recently starring Will Smith in 2007. He also wrote for several television series including Twilight Zone, the Alfred Hitchock Hour, Night Gallery and Star Trek. Matheson also wrote several Edgar Allan Poe adaptations, including “House of Usher,” “The Pit and the Pendulum” and “The Raven,” for filmmaker Roger Corman.
Matheson had been scheduled to receive the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror Films’ Visionary Award during the Saturn Awards on Wednesday. The award will be presented posthumously, and the event will now be dedicated to him.
Matheson’s three children followed in his footsteps and became screenplay writers and fiction novels.
