‘Thomas Crown Affair’ and ‘Bullitt’ Screenwriter Dies at 95
Alan Trustman, the esteemed screenwriter known for his work on iconic films like The Thomas Crown Affair and Bullitt, has passed away at the age of 95. His son, John Trustman, confirmed that Alan died on February 5, 2023, in a nursing home in Miami.
Career Highlights
Trustman’s screenplay for The Thomas Crown Affair, directed by Norman Jewison, marked a significant milestone in his career. The film, released in 1968, starred Steve McQueen as a charming millionaire and Faye Dunaway as an insurance investigator.
Just five months after the success of The Thomas Crown Affair, Trustman co-wrote Bullitt, another McQueen masterpiece. This film showcased one of cinema’s most famous car chases and was directed by Peter Yates.
Background and Thematic Influences
Born on December 16, 1930, in Brookline, Massachusetts, Alan Trustman showed early promise in storytelling. He attended esteemed institutions including Boston Latin School and Phillips Exeter Academy. After graduating from Harvard Law School, he practiced law in Boston.
Trustman’s transition to screenwriting was inspired by the boredom he felt following his favorite NFL player’s retirement. He envisioned a bank heist at the First National Bank of Boston and pitched his concept, which eventually became The Thomas Crown Affair.
Legacy and Subsequent Works
- Co-wrote They Call Me Mister Tibbs! in 1970, starring Sidney Poitier.
- Worked on the screenplay for Le Mans (1971) before being replaced due to creative differences.
- Contributed to films such as Lady Ice (1973) and Hit! (1973).
- Taught screenwriting at institutions including Harvard and NYU.
Personal Life and Survivors
Trustman is survived by his wife, Barbara, a psychiatrist, whom he married in 2008. He also leaves behind a daughter, Laurie, a sister named Patty, and 11 grandchildren. His previous marriage to Michelle Urry lasted from 1989 until her passing in 2006.
Alan Trustman’s contributions to cinema will be remembered, particularly through his iconic works like The Thomas Crown Affair and Bullitt. His narrative style and character-driven stories continue to resonate with audiences today.
