Jerry Belson

1938–2006 · American film director and screenwriter

Jerry Belson was an American writer, director, and producer of Hollywood films for over 40 years. Collaborating with figures like Steve Allen and Garry Marshall, Belson gained recognition for his work on various television shows, including The Dick Van Dyke Show and his co-creation of the popular sitcom The Odd Couple. He demonstrated his versatility by venturing into film, co-writing screenplays and directing movies. Belson's impact on comedy and his ability to create enduring characters and relatable narratives left a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.

Jerry Belson, in order

1. 1968 How Sweet It Is!: wrote, produced · directed by Jerry Paris
2. 1970 The Grasshopper: wrote, produced · directed by Jerry Paris
3. 1971 Getting Together (TV series): directed
4. 1975 Smile: wrote, acted · directed by Michael Ritchie
5. 1977 Close Encounters of the Third Kind: wrote · directed by Steven Spielberg · critics 91%, audiences 85% · streaming on YouTube (free), Tubi
6. 1977 Fun with Dick and Jane: wrote · directed by Ted Kotcheff
7. 1978 The End: wrote · directed by Burt Reynolds · critics 56%, audiences 51% · streaming on fuboTV, MGM+, Philo
8. 1980 Smokey and the Bandit II: wrote · directed by Hal Needham · critics 25%, audiences 43%
9. 1981 Student Bodies: produced · directed by Michael Ritchie and Mickey Rose
10. 1982 Jekyll and Hyde... Together Again: directed
11. 1987 Surrender: directed, wrote
12. 1987 The Tracey Ullman Show (TV series): created
13. 1988 For Keeps: produced · directed by John G. Avildsen
14. 1989 Always: wrote · directed by Steven Spielberg · critics 72%, audiences 58% · streaming on YouTube (free)