Biography
Jerry Belson (1938–2006) was an American writer, director and producer who worked in film and television for over four decades. He began his career selling a script to The Danny Thomas Show at the age of 22, having previously worked as a magician, comic-book writer and drummer. He collaborated extensively with Garry Marshall on series including The Dick Van Dyke Show (1961–1966) and co-created The Odd Couple (1970–1975).
Belson directed episodes of The Mary Tyler Moore Show (1970) and The Odd Couple. His film writing credits include Fun with Dick and Jane (1977), Smokey and the Bandit II (1980) and Always (1989). He also wrote for The Tracey Ullman Show and Tracey Takes On..., winning three Primetime Emmy Awards. His sister, Monica Johnson, was also a screenwriter.
