Evan Hunter, born Salvatore Albert Lombino, was a prolific American author whose works have left an indelible mark on the literary world. Known primarily for his crime and mystery fiction—especially the 87th Precinct series under the pen name Ed McBain—Hunter's contributions span novels, screenplays, and short stories. This article explores the life, career, and legacy of Evan Hunter, providing a comprehensive overview of his achievements and financial insights.
Quick Facts
| Full Name | Salvatore Albert Lombino |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Evan Hunter, Ed McBain |
| Professions | Author, Screenwriter |
| Date of Birth | October 15, 1926 |
| Place of Birth | New York City, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Date of Death | July 6, 2005 |
| Place of Death | Weston, Connecticut, USA |
| Cause of Death | Laryngeal cancer |
| net worth (2025) | $5 million (estimated) |
Early Life
Born in East Harlem, New York City, Evan Hunter's upbringing in the vibrant metropolis profoundly influenced his writing.
Childhood and Education
Growing up in the Bronx, Hunter attended Evander Childs High School, where he first discovered his passion for writing. He graduated from Hunter College in 1950, where he refined his writing skills, setting the stage for his future success.
Name Change and Military Service
In 1952, Lombino legally changed his name to Evan Hunter, a pivotal moment marking the start of his professional writing career. He also served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, an experience that deepened his understanding of human nature and conflict, themes prevalent in his later works.
Career Highlights
Evan Hunter's career is highlighted by several key milestones that shaped his reputation as a master storyteller.
Breakthrough with "The Blackboard Jungle"
Hunter's first major success, "The Blackboard Jungle" (1954), about a young teacher in an inner-city school, resonated strongly with readers and was soon adapted into a film, further solidifying his reputation.
The 87th Precinct Series
Under the pseudonym Ed McBain, Hunter created the 87th Precinct series, a cornerstone of police procedural novels that began with "Cop Hater" (1956). This series not only defined the genre but also inspired many crime fiction writers.
Collaboration with Alfred Hitchcock
Hunter's collaboration with Alfred Hitchcock, penning the screenplay for "The Birds" (1963), demonstrated his versatility and ability to craft compelling narratives for the screen.
Personal Life
Hunter's personal life was as rich and varied as his novels. He was married three times and had three sons.
Marriages and Family
Hunter's first marriage was to Anita Melnick, mother to his three sons: Richard, Mark, and Ted. He later married Mary Vann Finley and then Dragica Dimitrijevic, who was his spouse until his death.
Later Years and Death
Hunter remained active in writing until his later years, though he published no fiction under his own name from 1984 to 1994. He died from laryngeal cancer on July 6, 2005, in Weston, Connecticut.
Major Achievements
Hunter's literary and cinematic contributions have earned him numerous accolades and a lasting impact on the industry.
Literary Accolades
Inducted into the Hunter College Hall of Fame in 1981, Hunter's works have been translated into multiple languages, spreading his influence worldwide.
Influence on Crime Fiction
The 87th Precinct series not only popularized the police procedural genre but also inspired adaptations, including the NBC's "87th Precinct" police drama (1961–62).
Financial Insights
Evan Hunter's estimated net worth of around $5 million in 2024 reflects his successful career, with significant earnings from book sales, film adaptations, and royalties.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Evan Hunter best known for?
Evan Hunter is renowned for his crime and mystery fiction, particularly the 87th Precinct series under the pen name Ed McBain, and his screenplay for Alfred Hitchcock's "The Birds."
Why did Evan Hunter change his name?
He changed his name to better fit the American literary market, marking the start of his professional writing career.
How many books did Evan Hunter write?
Evan Hunter wrote over 100 novels, including titles under various pseudonyms.
Did Evan Hunter write under other names?
Yes, besides Ed McBain, he used several pseudonyms, including John Abbott, Curt Cannon, Hunt Collins, Richard Marsten, and Dean Hudson.
What was the cause of Evan Hunter's death?
He died from laryngeal cancer on July 6, 2005.
Conclusion
Evan Hunter's legacy as a master storyteller and pioneer of crime fiction endures through his extensive body of work. From his early life in New York City to his collaborations with literary and film giants, Hunter's contributions have left a lasting mark on the world of literature and cinema. His stories continue to captivate and inspire readers and writers alike.
For more information about Evan Hunter and his works, you can visit his Wikipedia page.
