Melissa Mathison, renowned for her work as a screenwriter and her marriage to actor Harrison Ford, left a profound legacy in the world of film and the lives she touched. Born on June 3, 1950, Mathison became a celebrated figure in Hollywood for her unique storytelling ability, most notably for writing the screenplay of the iconic 1982 film *E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial*. Her life, though closely intertwined with Ford’s, was remarkable in its own right. Sadly, Mathison passed away in 2015, leaving behind a lasting influence on both the film industry and her family.
Melissa Mathison's journey in the film industry began when she worked as an assistant to director Francis Ford Coppola on *The Godfather Part II* in the 1970s. This position marked the start of her illustrious career in screenwriting. She quickly proved herself to be a gifted storyteller, bringing a unique emotional depth and humanity to her work. Her breakthrough came in 1982 when she penned the screenplay for *E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial*, which earned her an Academy Award nomination and solidified her as one of Hollywood’s most talented screenwriters.
Mathison married Harrison Ford in 1983, a year after her massive success with *E.T.*. The couple was one of Hollywood's most private pairs, managing to keep their relationship largely out of the public eye despite Ford’s towering fame. Together, they had two children, Malcolm and Georgia, and raised their family away from the constant spotlight of Hollywood.
Ford and Mathison's marriage lasted for 21 years before they divorced in 2004. Though the separation was amicable, it was a significant moment in both their lives, with Mathison choosing to continue focusing on her career while also staying closely involved in her children’s lives.
In the years following her divorce from Ford, Mathison remained a respected and sought-after screenwriter. She went on to write the screenplay for *Kundun*, a 1997 film about the Dalai Lama, which was directed by Martin Scorsese. Her connection to the Dalai Lama was profound, as she had developed a deep friendship with him during her time researching the project. This relationship would be a source of personal growth for Mathison and would influence her humanitarian efforts later in life.
On November 4, 2015, Mathison passed away at the age of 65 after battling neuroendocrine cancer. Her death marked the loss of one of Hollywood’s most talented and beloved screenwriters. Tributes poured in from across the industry, with many remembering her not just for her work on *E.T.* and *Kundun*, but also for her kindness, generosity, and creativity.
Melissa Mathison’s work continues to be celebrated and admired by filmmakers and audiences alike. Her screenplays touched the hearts of millions, particularly through her ability to craft stories with emotional depth and universal themes. Though she is no longer with us, her legacy endures through her films, her family, and the lives she influenced during her remarkable life.
