Jerome Chodorov

Jerome Chodorov was a celebrated American playwright, librettist, and screenwriter, born on August 10, 1907, in New York City. He made a significant mark on American theatre in the mid-20th century, best known for his witty dialogue and sharp comic sensibilities. Chodorov began his career as a journalist before shifting to playwriting in the 1930s, finding early success in collaboration with his brother Edward Chodorov.

Chodorov is perhaps best known for co-writing the play My Sister Eileen (1940), which became a major hit and was later adapted into a musical (Wonderful Town) and several films. His work on the musical’s book, alongside Joseph Fields, helped establish him as a leading librettist on Broadway. Wonderful Town, with music by Leonard Bernstein, earned critical acclaim and a Tony Award for Best Musical in 1953.

He frequently partnered with Fields, and together they wrote a number of successful plays and musicals throughout the 1940s and 1950s. Their collaboration often focused on adapting existing works or creating clever, character-driven comedies for the stage. Chodorov’s knack for adaptation made him a favorite among producers and directors.

In addition to his stage work, Chodorov wrote for Hollywood, penning screenplays for adaptations of his own plays as well as original stories. However, his career faced challenges during the McCarthy era when he was blacklisted due to alleged Communist affiliations. Despite this setback, he continued to write for the theatre into the 1970s.

Jerome Chodorov passed away on September 12, 2004, in Nyack, New York, at the age of 97. His legacy remains firmly rooted in mid-century American theatre, where his blend of comedy and character insight continues to resonate with audiences and dramatists alike.