Forrest J. Ackerman
Forrest J. Ackerman, often referred to as Forry, was a pivotal figure in the establishment of science fiction as a legitimate literary genre. A passionate aficionado of science fiction and fantasy, he worked as an editor, writer, and literary agent, significantly influencing many notable authors in the field. Ackerman is credited with coining the term "sci-fi" and was renowned for his vast collection of science fiction memorabilia, which included over 300,000 pieces housed in his Ackermansion. He contributed to the genre through published reference guides, anthologies, and over fifty short stories, often collaborating with other writers.
Additionally, Ackerman played a vital role in fostering community among fans and creators by founding science fiction-based interest groups and editing the magazine Famous Monsters of Filmland. He was well-connected in the film industry, having friendships with iconic figures such as Bela Lugosi and Vincent Price, and he received the first Hugo Award for his contributions to science fiction. His influence extended to aspiring filmmakers like Steven Spielberg and Tim Burton, who were inspired by his work and dedication to the genre. Ackerman's legacy is marked by his efforts to elevate science fiction's status and nurture the creativity of future generations.
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Forrest J. Ackerman
Writer
- Born: November 24, 1916
- Birthplace: Los Angeles, California
- Died: December 4, 2008
- Place of death: Los Angeles, California
Biography
Forrest J. Ackerman, also known as Forry, 4e, and 4SJ, is best known for establishing science fiction as an authentic and respectable literary genre. Ackerman was a science fiction and fantasy aficionado who worked as a science fiction periodical editor and writer, and a literary agent to many science fiction authors of note. He coined the phrase sci-fi, and was the owner of an extensive and comprehensive science fiction memorabilia collection—a trove of over 300,000 pieces housed in eighteen rooms. He published a number of reference guides, anthologies, and short stories. He also founded two science fiction-based interest groups and edits and writes Famous Monsters of Filmland. He had over fifty short stories published, some as collaberation, and represented more than two hundred science fiction authors as a literary agent, including the late Ed Wood.
He had realtionships with the people inside the development of sci-fi, having been personal friends with Bela Lugosi, Vincent Price, and Ray Bradbury. He was also the first recipient of the Hugo Award, and had cameos in science fiction movies that include The Howling, The Time Travelers, and Amazon Women on the Moon. Some of the members of the fan clubs he established include noted artists in sci-fi and fantasy that he inspired in youth such as Stephen Spielberg, James Cameron, Billy Bob Thornton, Penn and Teller, John Landis, Tim Burton, and Danny Elfman.