Budd Schulberg was a prominent figure in American literature, known for his work as an author, screenwriter, sports writer, and TV producer. He was born in New York City in 1914 and grew up in Hollywood, where his father, B. P. Schulberg, was a prominent figure in the film industry. Schulberg's upbringing in Hollywood would later provide the inspiration for his writing, particularly in his nonfiction work.
Schulberg is perhaps best known for his novels, including "What Makes Sammy Run?" and "The Harder They Fall." The former is a classic exploration of ambition and the darker side of the American dream, while the latter is a powerful exposé of the boxing world. Both novels showcase Schulberg's ability to combine compelling storytelling with sharp social commentary. In addition to his novels, Schulberg also wrote the story for the classic film "On the Waterfront," for which he won an Academy Award for Best Screenplay.
Schulberg's writing career extended beyond fiction, and he was also known for his work as a journalist and essayist. He often wrote about boxing, a lifelong passion of his, and many of his writings on the sport are collected in "Sparring with Hemingway" (1995). Schulberg's nonfiction work also includes "Moving Pictures" (1981), an account of his upbringing in Hollywood, and "Writers in America" (1973), a glimpse into the lives of some of the famous novelists he met early in his career.
Throughout his career, Budd Schulberg made significant contributions to American literature and cinema. His work as a novelist, screenwriter, journalist, and essayist has left a lasting impact on the cultural landscape, and his writing continues to be celebrated and studied today. Schulberg passed away in 2009, but his legacy lives on through his timeless stories and essays.