Obituary – Cause of Death : Norma Barzman, blacklisted screenwriter, dies at 103 – BBC News

Norma Barzman, a prominent screenwriter who was blacklisted during the Hollywood Red Scare era, passed away at the age of 103. The news of her death was announced by Stacey Connor on Twitter on January 11, 2024. While the cause of her death remains unknown, Barzman’s life and legacy have left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.

Born in 1917, Norma Barzman grew up in a creative household in New York City. Her father, Ben Barzman, was a writer and editor, which undoubtedly influenced her passion for storytelling. After completing her education, Barzman moved to Los Angeles and began working in the film industry.

During the 1940s and 1950s, Barzman became an active member of the Hollywood community and made significant contributions to the screenwriting world. However, her career took a dramatic turn when she and her husband, writer Ben Barzman, were accused of being Communist sympathizers during the anti-communist hysteria of the McCarthy era. As a result, both Norma and Ben Barzman were blacklisted and found it incredibly difficult to find work in the industry.

Despite the challenges they faced, Norma and Ben Barzman refused to be silenced. They relocated to Europe, where they continued to write under pseudonyms and collaborated with filmmakers who were more open-minded about their political beliefs. Their resilience and determination to continue working in the face of adversity set a powerful example for many artists.

Norma Barzman’s work as a screenwriter spanned various genres, including drama, romance, and comedy. She contributed to several notable films, including “Never Trust a Gambler” (1951) and “The Lovers of Montparnasse” (1958). Her ability to tell compelling stories and create memorable characters earned her respect and admiration within the industry.

In addition to her screenwriting career, Norma Barzman was also an outspoken advocate for civil rights and social justice. She used her platform to speak out against discrimination and inequality, often drawing from her own experiences during the blacklist era. Barzman’s activism and commitment to fighting for what she believed in made her a respected figure among her peers.

Throughout her life, Norma Barzman remained dedicated to her craft and continued writing until her final days. Her perseverance in the face of adversity and her refusal to compromise her principles serve as an inspiration to aspiring writers and artists everywhere.

As news of Norma Barzman’s passing spreads, tributes and condolences pour in from friends, colleagues, and fans. The impact of her work and her unwavering spirit will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come. The entertainment industry has lost a true trailblazer and a remarkable talent.

While the cause of Norma Barzman’s death remains unknown, her legacy lives on through her work and the impact she had on those around her. Her contributions to the film industry and her activism during one of the darkest periods in Hollywood history will forever be remembered. Norma Barzman’s name will be etched in the annals of screenwriting, and her story will continue to inspire future generations..

Norma Barzman, blacklisted screenwriter, dies at 103https://t.co/GZ1AJpDCnm

— Stacey Connor (@StaceyC96725148) January 11, 2024

Condolences

@StaceyC96725148 said Norma Barzman, blacklisted screenwriter, dies at 103 bbcnews.whf.bz/?p=9101&feed_i…