Terrence McNally

Biography

Terrence McNally was a renowned American playwright and librettist celebrated for his powerful explorations of human relationships, identity, and social issues, especially those affecting the LGBTQ+ community. Raised in Corpus Christi, Texas, McNally graduated from Columbia University in 1960 with a degree in English. He began his theatrical career shortly after college and rose to prominence in the 1960s.

Career Highlights

Theatre

McNally’s career spanned nearly six decades and included over 25 Broadway productions. He was known for his versatility, tackling both drama and comedy with equal skill. Some of his most significant works include:

Frankie and Johnny in the Clair de Lune (1987)

Lips Together, Teeth Apart (1991)

Love! Valour! Compassion! (1994)

Master Class (1995), based on opera singer Maria Callas

Corpus Christi (1998), a controversial retelling of the story of Jesus with a gay narrative

He also wrote librettos for award-winning musicals, including:

Kiss of the Spider Woman (1992)

Ragtime (1998)

The Full Monty (2000)

Anastasia (2017)

Television and Film

In addition to theatre, McNally wrote for television and film. His screenwriting credits include the film adaptation of Frankie and Johnny (1991), starring Al Pacino and Michelle Pfeiffer. He also worked on TV adaptations of his plays, bringing his stories to a broader audience.

Legacy

Terrence McNally received numerous accolades during his lifetime, including five Tony Awards (two for Best Play, two for Best Book of a Musical, and a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2019). He was a fierce advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and used his platform to challenge societal norms and celebrate love in all its forms.

McNally passed away in 2020 due to complications from COVID-19. He is remembered as a trailblazing voice in American theatre, known for his empathy, wit, and unflinching honesty.