Stanley Shapiro

Biography

Stanley Shapiro was an acclaimed American screenwriter and producer best known for his work in comedy films during the 1950s and 1960s. Born in Brooklyn, New York, he showed an early flair for humor and storytelling. Shapiro began his career in radio and television before transitioning into film, where he would leave a significant mark on Hollywood's romantic comedy genre.

Career

Stanley Shapiro started his writing career in radio and moved into early television, working on variety and comedy shows. His breakthrough came in Hollywood as a screenwriter specializing in witty, urbane comedies that often centered around romantic entanglements and gender dynamics.

He is perhaps best known for his collaborations with actor Rock Hudson and actress Doris Day. Shapiro wrote and co-wrote several box office hits, including:

Pillow Talk (1959) – This film won Shapiro an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay and is considered a classic of the romantic comedy genre.

Lover Come Back (1961)

That Touch of Mink (1962), starring Doris Day and Cary Grant

Shapiro also produced many of the films he wrote and eventually moved into directing. Later in his career, he expanded his creative pursuits by writing novels, including A Time to Remember and Simon's Soul, showcasing his versatility as a storyteller.

Legacy

Stanley Shapiro is remembered for redefining romantic comedy in American cinema during the mid-20th century. His sharp dialogue, memorable characters, and stylish storytelling helped shape the genre’s golden era. His work continues to influence screenwriters and filmmakers who aim to blend romance and humor with sophistication.