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Richard Donner Biography

Birth Name:Richard Donald Schwartzberg

Birth Place:New York City, New York, United States

Profession Director, Producer, Actor, Writer

Fast Facts

  • Received the President's Award from the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy & Horror Films in 2000
  • Studied business at New York University, before switching to studying theater
  • Originally aspired to be an actor before deciding to direct TV commercials
  • Is credited with helping to establish the superhero film genre
  • Is primarily known for producing films that involve multiple action sequences
  • Wanted to direct the 1989 film version of "Batman" with Mel Gibson in the lead role
  • Was the personal choice of writer Michael Crichton to direct "Jurassic Park․"

Awards

  • 1979Saturn Award-Best Director: nominated
  • 1979Hugo-Best Dramatic Presentation: winner
  • 1986Hugo-Best Dramatic Presentation: nominated
  • 1993CableACE-Dramatic Series: nominated
  • 1994CableACE-Dramatic Series: nominated
  • 1995CableACE-Dramatic Series: nominated
  • 1995CableACE-Dramatic Series: nominated
  • 1997Daytime Emmy-Outstanding Audience Participation Show/Game Show: nominated