J. Michael Straczynski

Date of Birth: July 17, 1954

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Biography

J. Michael Straczynski, often referred to as “JMS,” is an acclaimed American screenwriter, producer, and author, best known for creating the groundbreaking science fiction television series “Babylon 5.” Born in Paterson, New Jersey, Straczynski’s career has spanned several decades and various media, including television, film, novels, and comic books. Straczynski graduated from San Diego State University with a degree in psychology and sociology. His early career included work as a journalist and as a writer for animated series such as “He-Man and the Masters of the Universe.” His big break came with “Babylon 5,” which aired from 1994 to 1998 and garnered critical acclaim for its complex storytelling and pioneering use of computer-generated imagery. In addition to “Babylon 5,” Straczynski has written for numerous other television shows, including “Murder, She Wrote,” “The Twilight Zone,” and “Sense8,” which he co-created with the Wachowskis. His work in comics includes notable runs on “The Amazing Spider-Man,” “Thor,” and “Superman.” Straczynski is also a prolific author, having written several novels and non-fiction books. His memoir, “Becoming Superman: My Journey from Poverty to Hollywood,” was published in 2019 and received widespread praise for its candid and inspirational storytelling.

5 Interesting Facts about J. Michael Straczynski

1. J. Michael Straczynski wrote 92 out of the 110 episodes of “Babylon 5,” a feat that is almost unheard of in television production.

2. He was one of the first writers to use the internet to communicate directly with fans, pioneering a new era of fan interaction.

3. Straczynski has won multiple awards, including the Hugo Award, Saturn Award, and the Eisner Award.

4. He wrote the screenplay for the critically acclaimed film “Changeling,” directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Angelina Jolie.

5. Straczynski served as a consultant on the Marvel Cinematic Universe film “Thor” and has a cameo appearance in it.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from J. Michael Straczynski

1. “No dictator, no invader, can hold an imprisoned population by force of arms forever. There is no greater power in the universe than the need for freedom.”

2. “Understanding is a three-edged sword: your side, their side, and the truth.”

3. “Faith and reason are the shoes on your feet. You can travel further with both than you can with just one.”

4. “We are starstuff. We are the universe made manifest, trying to figure itself out.”

5. “In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.”