James Leo Herlihy

Who wrote the novel the film Midnight Cowboy is based on, spent part of his childhood in Chillicothe.

What is James Leo Herlihy known for?

James Leo Herlihy, born in Detroit, Michigan, is an alumnus of Chillicothe High School, Chillicothe, Ohio. A man of many talents, Herlihy made his mark as a notable American novelist, playwright, and actor. Known for his diverse body of work, his notable credits include the novels Midnight Cowboy and All Fall Down, and the play Blue Denim. All of these works were successfully adapted for cinema, showcasing his talent as a storyteller.

Herlihy's journey began in the working-class family environment of Detroit, leading him to Chillicothe, Ohio. Following his high school education, he enlisted with the Navy in 1945, although World War II ended before he saw any action. His educational journey then took him to Black Mountain College in North Carolina and eventually to Pasadena Playhouse College of the Theatre in Southern California, nurturing his creative talents and honing his future profession.

Throughout his career, Herlihy wrote several plays, including "Streetlight Sonata" (1950), "Moon in Capricorn" (1953), and "Blue Denim" (1958). He showed his versatility by directing actress Tallulah Bankhead in a touring production of his play "Crazy October" in 1959. He also made a name for himself on the little screen with a guest role in a 1962 episode of the TV series Route 66, and on the big screen with a part in the movie "In the French Style" (1963). His work extended to acting in Edward Albee's play "The Zoo Story" in 1963 and the 1981 film "Four Friends".

Herlihy wasn't just active in the arts; he was also a vocal protestor against the Vietnam War, signing the "Writers and Editors War Tax Protest" pledge in 1968. This pledge saw him vowing to refuse tax payments as a protest against the war, highlighting his commitment to activism.

Unfortunately, Herlihy's life ended prematurely when he committed suicide at the age of 66 in Los Angeles. The world lost a versatile artist and passionate activist who left a significant mark in American literature and entertainment.

For more about his work and life, check out his IMDb profile.