Andrew Bergman

Andrew Bergman is an American screenwriter, director, novelist, and librettist known for his sharp wit, satirical flair, and versatile storytelling across film, literature, and theatre. Born on February 20, 1945, in Queens, New York, Bergman earned a Ph.D. in American history from the University of Wisconsin–Madison before launching a successful career in Hollywood. His background in history and culture would go on to inform much of his comedic and often socially observant work.

Bergman first gained prominence in the film world as the original screenwriter of Blazing Saddles (1974), co-written with Mel Brooks and Richard Pryor, among others. The irreverent Western spoof became a comedy classic and established Bergman as a bold and inventive voice. He went on to write and/or direct several successful films, including The In-Laws (1979), The Freshman (1990), Honeymoon in Vegas (1992), and It Could Happen to You (1994), often blending absurdity with emotional warmth and clever, fast-paced dialogue.

In addition to his film work, Bergman has written several novels and ventured into theatre as a librettist. His most notable stage contribution is the book for the Broadway musical Honeymoon in Vegas, adapted from his own 1992 film. The musical, with a score by Jason Robert Brown, opened on Broadway in 2015 and was praised for preserving the original film’s charm while bringing new energy to the story. Bergman’s libretto was noted for its humor, pacing, and faithful translation of his cinematic sensibilities to the stage.

Bergman’s storytelling is marked by a strong sense of character, comic timing, and a love of genre pastiche. Whether writing for screen, stage, or page, his work often reflects an affection for classic Americana mixed with a contemporary twist. Though best known for his film career, his contributions to musical theatre demonstrate his range and his talent for adapting narrative across mediums.

Andrew Bergman remains a respected figure in American entertainment—a cultural satirist with a gift for blending comedy, romance, and heart, whether in a movie theater or on a Broadway stage.