M. Night Shyamalan

Date of Birth: August 6, 1970

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Biography

M. Night Shyamalan, born Manoj Nelliyattu Shyamalan, is an acclaimed Indian-American filmmaker and screenwriter known for his work in the thriller and supernatural genres. He was born on August 6, 1970, in Mahe, Puducherry, India, but was raised in the suburbs of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Shyamalan’s parents, both doctors, encouraged his early interest in filmmaking. He attended New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, where he graduated in 1992. Shyamalan gained international fame with the release of “The Sixth Sense” (1999), which earned six Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Original Screenplay. He followed this success with other notable films such as “Unbreakable” (2000), “Signs” (2002), and “The Village” (2004). Despite experiencing a period of critical and commercial setbacks, Shyamalan made a strong comeback with the psychological horror-thriller “The Visit” (2015) and the critically acclaimed “Split” (2016), which was followed by “Glass” (2019), completing his Unbreakable trilogy. His work is often recognized for its twist endings and his penchant for cameo appearances in his own films.

5 Interesting Facts about M. Night Shyamalan

1. M. Night Shyamalan’s middle name, Nelliyattu, is derived from his family’s heritage in India.

2. He funded his first film, “Praying with Anger” (1992), with money he received as a graduation gift from his parents.

3. Shyamalan wrote the screenplay for the 1999 film “Stuart Little.”

4. He is the creator of the Apple TV+ series “Servant” (2019), which he also executive produces.

5. Shyamalan is known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in the field of education, and established the M. Night Shyamalan Foundation to support leaders who are working to remove barriers created by poverty and social injustice.