David Seidler, the acclaimed screenwriter who won an Oscar for the film “The King’s Speech,” passed away at 86 on Saturday, March 16.
Seidler died during a fly-fishing trip in New Zealand, an activity he cherished deeply. His manager, Jeff Aghassi, remarked that Seidler was in his favorite place, doing what brought him immense peace.
Born in London in 1937, Seidler’s youth was shaped by the turmoil of World War II, leading his family to seek safety in the United States. This challenging period of his life not only influenced his storytelling but also marked the beginning of his remarkable journey in the world of cinema and television. His career, spanning nearly six decades, began with television writing in Australia and evolved to include significant contributions to television and film, especially during the 1980s.
“The King’s Speech,” Seidler’s most celebrated work, secured the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay in 2011. The film, which also earned Oscars for Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor, was inspired by the true story of King George VI, who overcame a stammer with the help of speech therapist Lionel Logue.
Seidler, who shared this personal struggle, was honored with two BAFTAs and the Humanitas Prize for his screenplay. In his Oscar acceptance speech, he dedicated the award to “all the stutterers around the world,” acknowledging his own battle with stuttering.
Beyond “The King’s Speech,” Seidler’s remarkable portfolio includes animated films like “Quest for Camelot” and “The King and I,” as well as significant biopics such as “Onassis: The Richest Man in the World” and “Tucker: The Man and His Dream.” His dedication to exploring profound themes of life, love, loss, and rebirth manifested in his work on the stage adaptation of “The King’s Speech,” which premiered in London’s West End in 2012.
Seidler’s passion for storytelling extended to his final days, as he actively developed new projects, including documentaries, limited series, and feature films. His legacy is carried on by his children, Marc and Maya, who remember him as a passionate storyteller and a loving father.