Irving Brecher
Born: 1914-01-17 in New York City, New York, USA
Died: 2008-11-17
Known For: Writing
Biography
Irving Brecher was an American screenwriter, producer, and director celebrated for his work in comedy. He began his career writing jokes for radio personalities before transitioning to film. Brecher was the only writer to receive sole credit on Marx Brothers films, penning At the Circus (1939) and Go West (1940). He also contributed to the screenplay of The Wizard of Oz (1939). Brecher created the radio and television sitcom The Life of Riley, which aired from 1944 to 1951, and directed the film Meet Me in St. Louis (1944). His sharp wit and comedic timing earned him a reputation as one of America's leading humorists.
Filmography
1993
- The Unknown Marx Brothers as Self
1982
- The Marx Brothers in a Nutshell as Self
1963
- Bye Bye Birdie ... (Screenplay)
1961
- Cry for Happy ... (Screenplay)
- Sail a Crooked Ship ... (Director)
1959
- The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis ... (Writer)
- Meet Me in St. Louis ... (Original Film Writer)
1955
- The People's Choice ... (Creator)
1952
- Somebody Loves Me ... (Director)
1949
- The Life of Riley ... (Producer)
- The Life of Riley ... (Director)
1945
- Yolanda and the Thief ... (Screenplay)
1944
- Meet Me in St. Louis ... (Screenplay)
1943
- Du Barry Was a Lady ... (Screenplay)
- Best Foot Forward ... (Screenplay)
1941
- Shadow of the Thin Man ... (Screenplay)
1940
- Go West ... (Screenplay)
1939
- At the Circus ... (Screenplay)
1937
- New Faces of 1937 ... (Screenplay)