Richard Matheson has led a long and interesting life. Born in Brooklyn he started his writing career when some of his short stories were published in 1950. The author's subsequent career, spanning 60 years, including writing scripts for The Twilight Zone, Family Guy, Ghost Story and Jaws 3-D. His most famous work is I Am Legend, a post-apocalyptic horror which follows one man's life pitted against vampires whilst he is isolated in deserted Los Angeles.

I Am Legend has been adapted three times since its publication in 1954. The first starring Vincent Price, the second Charlton Heston and in 2011 Will Smith took on the role. The novel has been critically acclaimed and continues to challenge vampire novelists in developing an idea as original as Matheson's.

Director Steven Spielberg paid tribute to the late author saying in a statement "Richard Matheson's ironic and iconic imagination created seminal science-fiction stories and gave me my first break when he wrote the short story and screenplay for Duel." 

In addition to influencing other writers, including Stephen King (The Shining) and Anne Rice (Interview With The Vampire), Matheson's work has inspired directors and actors. One of his Twilight Zone episodes is the basis for Hugh Jackman's film Reel Steel. 

In honour of his achievements Matheson received a number of literary awards including The Bram Stoker Award For Lifetime Achievement from the Horror Writer's Association and a place in the Science Fiction Hall of Fame. 

Contactmusic sends its condolences to Richard Matheson's family and friends. 

Anne Rice
Anne Rice, the author of Interview With The Vampire, said one of Matheson's short novels was inspirational. 

Hugh Jackman
Hugh Jackman whose 2011 film Reel Steel was inspired by one of Matheson's Twilight Zone episodes.