Sherwood Schwartz


Full Name and Common Aliases


Sherwood Joseph Schwartz was a renowned American television producer, writer, and creator of the classic sitcom Gilligan's Island.

Birth and Death Dates


Born on November 6, 1918, in Brooklyn, New York, he passed away on July 12, 2013, at the age of 94.

Nationality and Profession(s)


Schwartz was an American television producer and writer. He is widely recognized for his work in television comedy, particularly in the creation of beloved sitcoms that continue to entertain audiences today.

Early Life and Background


Growing up in Brooklyn, Schwartz developed a passion for storytelling at a young age. He began writing at 17 and eventually landed his first job as a radio writer. After serving in World War II, Schwartz transitioned to television writing, working on shows such as The Red Skelton Show and Dennis the Menace.

Major Accomplishments


Schwartz's most notable achievement is undoubtedly the creation of Gilligan's Island, which premiered in 1964 and ran for three seasons. This show about seven castaways stranded on a deserted island became an instant hit, captivating audiences with its blend of humor, adventure, and relatable characters.

Notable Works or Actions


In addition to creating Gilligan's Island, Schwartz also worked on other notable projects, including The Doris Day Show and Me and the Chimp. His writing style often incorporated clever wordplay, situational comedy, and memorable character dynamics.

Impact and Legacy


Schwartz's impact on television comedy is undeniable. His ability to craft relatable characters and witty dialogue continues to inspire writers today. The success of Gilligan's Island paved the way for future sitcoms, cementing Schwartz's place as a pioneer in the genre.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered


Schwartz's legacy extends beyond his on-screen creations. His quotes and insights offer valuable advice to writers and producers seeking to craft engaging stories. His experiences navigating the television industry provide a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs of show business. As a testament to his enduring impact, Schwartz's work remains widely popular today, ensuring that his contributions to the world of comedy will continue to be celebrated for generations to come.

As a writer who has left an indelible mark on the world of television, Sherwood Schwartz's legacy serves as a reminder of the power of creativity and innovation. His quotes offer timeless wisdom and inspiration to anyone seeking to create engaging stories that captivate audiences.

Quotes by Sherwood Schwartz

The critics say it's a bad show, but there ain't no critic who can climb into people's windows and turn off their sets.
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The critics say it's a bad show, but there ain't no critic who can climb into people's windows and turn off their sets.
I don't like it to be compared to 'Survivor.' The idea of 'Survivor' is to kill each other off to win the prize. There's no killing in Gilligan's Island.
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I don't like it to be compared to 'Survivor.' The idea of 'Survivor' is to kill each other off to win the prize. There's no killing in Gilligan's Island.
If you study both 'Gilligan' and 'Brady,' you will see they are based on a similar philosophy: that it's possible for different kinds of people to learn to live together, either in a family or stuck on an island with no escape.
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If you study both 'Gilligan' and 'Brady,' you will see they are based on a similar philosophy: that it's possible for different kinds of people to learn to live together, either in a family or stuck on an island with no escape.
I honestly think I could sit down and write a show tonight that the critics would love, and I know it would be canceled within four weeks. I know what the critics love. We write and produce for people, not for critics.
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I honestly think I could sit down and write a show tonight that the critics would love, and I know it would be canceled within four weeks. I know what the critics love. We write and produce for people, not for critics.
I own all the characters I created, thanks to the Writers Guild, so nobody can do anything without me. The way it works is: If the copyright owners instigate a project, like the movie, then I get a fee as creator. If I instigate a project, like the musical, I pay a percentage to the copyright owners.
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I own all the characters I created, thanks to the Writers Guild, so nobody can do anything without me. The way it works is: If the copyright owners instigate a project, like the movie, then I get a fee as creator. If I instigate a project, like the musical, I pay a percentage to the copyright owners.
I knew that by assembling seven different people and forcing them to live together, the show would have great philosophical implications.
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I knew that by assembling seven different people and forcing them to live together, the show would have great philosophical implications.
It was like Burns and Allen, and any twosome really. They fed off each other with physical stuff and vocal.
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It was like Burns and Allen, and any twosome really. They fed off each other with physical stuff and vocal.
It wasn't Ginger's Island, it was Gilligan's Island.
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It wasn't Ginger's Island, it was Gilligan's Island.
A lot of people say television holds up a mirror to life, and that's why you see all the drug busts and the killings and the seamier side of life. I personally take the view that it's not sufficient to portray only negative role models. It's not enough to say 'no' to drugs. What do you say 'yes' to?
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A lot of people say television holds up a mirror to life, and that's why you see all the drug busts and the killings and the seamier side of life. I personally take the view that it's not sufficient to portray only negative role models. It's not enough to say 'no' to drugs. What do you say 'yes' to?
As a man who tried to explain in his own way that people have to learn to get along with each other. I did it with comedy because that's what I'm familiar with, and I think it's more acceptable to tell it in comedy form. But that's how I'd like to be remembered.
"
As a man who tried to explain in his own way that people have to learn to get along with each other. I did it with comedy because that's what I'm familiar with, and I think it's more acceptable to tell it in comedy form. But that's how I'd like to be remembered.
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