Renowned writer and filmmaker Charles Shyer, known for his work on beloved comedies such as “Private Benjamin,” “Baby Boom,” and “Father of the Bride,” has sadly passed away at the age of 83. Shyer, who was nominated for an Oscar, died in Los Angeles on Friday. The cause of his death has not been disclosed.
Shyer, a Hollywood legacy, was born in Los Angeles in 1941. He began his career in television, working on shows like “The Odd Couple” before transitioning to writing for films. One of his early successes was the comedy “Private Benjamin,” co-written with Nancy Meyers and Harvey Miller, which initially faced rejection from major studios but went on to become a hit in 1980.
Shyer's directorial debut came with “Irreconcilable Differences,” a film he co-wrote with Meyers. The duo, who were married in 1980, collaborated on several successful projects, including “Baby Boom” and “Father of the Bride,” which was popular enough to spawn a sequel.
One of their final collaborations as a couple was the remake of “The Parent Trap,” featuring Lindsay Lohan. Shyer is survived by his children from different marriages, including daughters Annie and Hallie, who inspired the characters in the film.
Throughout his career, Shyer aimed to create timeless stories that resonated with audiences beyond the moment. Despite facing challenges with some projects, he remained dedicated to his craft and returned to filmmaking in recent years with Netflix Christmas romantic comedies.
Shyer's passion for storytelling and filmmaking never waned, as he continued to work on new projects, including a script he had envisioned for decades. Retirement was not on his agenda, as he expressed his love for the creative process and the camaraderie of filmmaking.
Charles Shyer leaves behind a lasting legacy in the world of cinema, with his unique comedic touch and dedication to crafting stories about human experiences that endure through time.
