William Bast, American screenwriter and author (b. 1931)

William Bast (April 3, 1931 – May 4, 2015) was a distinguished American screenwriter and author whose career spanned several decades, leaving an indelible mark on both the literary and entertainment landscapes. While widely recognized for his prolific contributions to motion pictures and television, Bast is perhaps most famously remembered for his intimate, insightful biographies of the legendary screen actor James Dean, offering a unique personal perspective on the enigmatic star.

Early Life and the Enduring Bond with James Dean

Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, William Bast later moved to Los Angeles, where he pursued his education and aspirations in the arts. It was during his time at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and later at the Actors Studio in New York City that he formed a profound and formative friendship with James Dean. This connection was more than just collegiate camaraderie; Bast became Dean’s roommate and a close confidant, providing him with a unique vantage point into the actor’s complex personality, struggles, and meteoric rise to fame. This intimate relationship would later form the emotional and factual bedrock of Bast’s critically acclaimed biographical works.

A Literary Legacy: Documenting James Dean's Life

Bast’s literary contributions are anchored by his two compelling biographies of James Dean, which offer unparalleled insights into the actor's life both before and during his brief, but impactful, career. His first book, James Dean: A Biography, was published in 1956, just a year after Dean's tragic death. It was among the earliest attempts to chronicle the life of the burgeoning icon, written from the direct experience of someone who knew him profoundly. Decades later, Bast revisited his experiences and expanded upon his initial account with Surviving James Dean, released in 2006. This second biography provided a more mature, reflective, and candid perspective, delving deeper into their shared experiences, the nuances of their relationship, and the lasting impact Dean's life and death had on Bast. Both works are considered essential reading for anyone seeking to understand the real James Dean beyond the cinematic myth, offering a crucial personal narrative that enriches the public's perception of the actor.

A Prolific Career in Screenwriting

Beyond his literary endeavors, William Bast forged a significant career as a screenwriter, contributing to a vast array of popular television series and films. His versatility was evident in his ability to craft compelling narratives across various genres. For television, his credits include writing episodes for iconic shows such as Alfred Hitchcock Presents, the gritty war drama Combat!, the groundbreaking youth-oriented crime series The Mod Squad, the beloved family drama The Waltons, and the long-running procedural Hawaii Five-O. This extensive television work showcased his talent for character development and plot construction, making him a sought-after writer during television's golden age. While perhaps less frequent, his film credits also demonstrated his range and storytelling prowess.

Creative and Personal Partnership with Paul Huson

A significant aspect of William Bast’s later life and career was his enduring partnership with Paul Huson. Huson, an author, screenwriter, and occultist, became Bast’s longtime personal and professional collaborator. Together, they co-wrote numerous television scripts, leveraging their combined creative strengths to produce engaging content for various series. Their collaborative spirit extended beyond screenwriting; they also co-authored books, including The Power of Karma: How to Understand Your Past and Shape Your Future, reflecting their shared interests in broader spiritual and philosophical themes. Their partnership exemplified a harmonious blend of creative synergy and deep personal connection, enriching both their individual lives and their collective body of work.

Later Life and Enduring Influence

William Bast continued to write and remain connected to the literary and entertainment worlds throughout his later years. His work, particularly his biographies of James Dean, ensured his enduring relevance as a crucial voice in understanding one of Hollywood's most enduring legends. Bast passed away on May 4, 2015, at the age of 84, leaving behind a legacy of compelling storytelling, both factual and fictional, that continues to resonate with audiences and scholars alike. His personal connection to James Dean provided an invaluable lens through which to view the actor's life, securing Bast's place not just as an author and screenwriter, but as a pivotal historical witness.

Frequently Asked Questions About William Bast

Who was William Bast?
William Bast was an American screenwriter and author, best known for his television writing and his two insightful biographies of the iconic actor James Dean.
What was William Bast's connection to James Dean?
William Bast was James Dean's college roommate, close friend, and confidant. This intimate relationship provided him with a unique perspective, which he later chronicled in his biographies of the actor.
What are the titles of William Bast's biographies of James Dean?
His two biographies are James Dean: A Biography (published in 1956) and Surviving James Dean (published in 2006).
What TV shows did William Bast write for?
William Bast had an extensive television career, writing for popular shows such as Alfred Hitchcock Presents, Combat!, The Mod Squad, The Waltons, and Hawaii Five-O, among many others.
Who was Paul Huson in relation to William Bast?
Paul Huson was William Bast's longtime personal and professional partner. They collaborated on numerous screenwriting projects for television and co-authored books, including The Power of Karma.
When did William Bast pass away?
William Bast passed away on May 4, 2015, at the age of 84.