William H. Wisher Jr., Terminator co-writer, dies at 71
The screenwriter and producer helped write The Terminator and Terminator 2: Judgment Day, two defining sci-fi action films.
By Bianca Rossi · Entertainment Editor
2 min read
William H. Wisher Jr., the screenwriter and producer whose name is tied to two of Hollywood’s most famous killer-robot films, has died at 71.
Wisher’s family confirmed his death to Deadline, saying he “passed away peacefully at home.”
In a statement, the family said Wisher saw storytelling as something that could link audiences across generations.
“William believed that stories have the power to connect people across generations,” the family said. “While the world celebrates the unforgettable films he helped create, we will remember him for his kindness, his humor, his brilliant imagination, and the love he gave so freely to his family and friends. We are grateful for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time.”
Wisher was best known for his work with James Cameron on The Terminator, the 1984 science fiction action film that introduced audiences to a relentless cyborg assassin and became one of the defining genre movies of its era.
He later returned to the franchise for Terminator 2: Judgment Day, the 1991 sequel directed by Cameron. Deadline identified Wisher as a co-writer on both films.
The two movies became the credits most closely associated with Wisher’s career, pairing high-speed action with time-travel stakes and a grim vision of a future shaped by machines. The original film was released by Orion Pictures, according to Deadline’s report.
Wisher’s screen work extended beyond the Terminator franchise. His other credits included Judge Dredd, released in 1995, and The 13th Warrior, released in 1999.
He also worked on two films connected to the Exorcist series: Exorcist: The Beginning, released in 2004, and Dominion: Prequel to the Exorcist, released in 2005.
Later credits listed by Deadline included Live Free or Die Hard, the 2007 entry in the Die Hard series, and I.T., released in 2016.
Wisher is survived by his wife, Deborah Lynn Wisher; his siblings, Brian Wisher, John Wisher, Carla DeMaci and Dana Aboissiere; and nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members and friends, according to the family information reported by Deadline.
This story draws on original reporting from Deadline.