Stephen King, the master of horror fiction, is a name that resonates across the literary world. Born on September 21, 1947, in Portland, Maine, United States, Stephen King has left an indelible mark on the horror genre with his chilling narratives and complex characters. As a prolific writer, with numerous bestsellers to his name, King has influenced countless authors and filmmakers. Beyond his literary accomplishments, King is also known for his philanthropy and advocacy work. This biography delves into the life and journey of Stephen King, from his humble beginnings to his status as a cultural icon.
Personal Information
| Full Name | Stephen King |
|---|---|
| Nick Name / Stage Name | The King of Horror |
| Born | September 21, 1947, Portland, Maine, United States |
| Age | 75 |
| Gender | Male |
| Zodiac Sign | Virgo |
| Hometown | Portland, Maine |
| Nationality | American |
| Years Active | 1967 – Present |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Husband/Wife | Tabitha King |
| Children | 3 Sons |
| Political Affiliation | Independent |
| Alma Mater | University of Maine, Orono |
| Profession | Author |
| Net Worth (approx.) | $500 million |
| Debut | Carrie (1974) |
| School | Lisbon Falls High School |
| College | University of Maine, Orono |
| Education Qualification / Degree | Bachelor’s degree in English |
| Hobbies/Habits/Interests | Reading, Writing, Walking |
| Favorite Clothing Brands | N/A |
| Favorite Gadgets | N/A |
| Food Habit | N/A |
| Awards | National Medal of Arts, Grand Master Award (Mystery Writers of America) |
| Notable Works | Carrie, The Shining, It, The Dark Tower series |
| Website | Stephen King Official Website |
Early Career
Stephen King’s journey into the world of literature began in his childhood years. Despite facing challenges, including his father’s absence, King showed an early aptitude for storytelling. His first significant job in the literary world was as a high school teacher at Hampden Academy in Maine. During this time, he worked on his writing outside of the classroom, often struggling to make ends meet.
Education
Stephen King’s educational journey laid the foundation for his future career as a writer. He attended the University of Maine, where he studied English and met his future wife, Tabitha. It was during his college years that King began to seriously pursue writing, publishing his first short story, “The Glass Floor,” in 1967 in a university magazine.
Career
Stephen King’s career as a professional writer spans over five decades. His journey is marked by countless novels, short stories, and works of non-fiction. King’s ability to churn out gripping narratives led to numerous bestsellers and adaptations into films and television shows.
| Year | Position | Achievement |
|---|---|---|
| 1974 | Author (Debut Novel: Carrie) | Publication of first novel |
| 1977 | Author (The Shining) | Release of iconic horror novel |
| 1986 | Author (It) | Publication of novel considered his magnum opus |
| 1998 | Author (The Dark Tower VII: The Dark Tower) | Completion of his epic dark fantasy series |
| 2013 | Author (Doctor Sleep) | Sequel to The Shining, further cementing his legacy |
Contributions and Impact
Stephen King’s contributions to the horror genre are immeasurable. He not only redefined the genre but also inspired countless authors to explore the darker aspects of human nature. His impact on popular culture is vast, with many of his characters becoming iconic cultural figures.
- Literary World
- Elevated the status of horror fiction as a legitimate literary genre.
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Mentorship and support for emerging writers, contributing to the evolution of the literary community.
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Film and Television
- Many adaptations of his works became blockbusters, influencing the horror film genre.
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Personally involved in some film adaptations, maintaining the integrity of his stories.
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Philanthropy
- Active supporter of literacy programs and libraries.
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Established the Stephen and Tabitha King Foundation to support various charitable causes in Maine.
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Advocacy
- Fearlessly advocated for freedom of expression and challenged censorship.
- Voiced his opinions on social and political issues, contributing to public discourse.
Awards and Honors
| Year | Award/Honor | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 2003 | National Medal of Arts | Highest award given to artists and arts patrons in the United States |
| 2007 | Grand Master Award | Highest honor by the Mystery Writers of America |
| 2015 | National Book Award (Lifetime Achievement) | Recognition of his contribution to American literature |
Personal Life
Despite his penchant for horror fiction, Stephen King’s personal life is notably private. He is known to be a devoted family man, and his relationship with his wife, Tabitha, has been a constant source of support and inspiration throughout his career. King’s three sons have also pursued careers in writing and filmmaking, carrying on their father’s creative legacy.
Personal Traits
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Personality | Complex, introverted yet outspoken on certain issues. |
| Interests | Reading, Writing, Literary Analysis |
| Hobbies | Philanthropy, Walking, Watching Baseball |
| Passions | Literacy, Freedom of Expression, Animal Welfare |
| Values | Family, Education, Social Responsibility |
| Quirks | Superstitious, incorporates recurring elements in his works. |
| Fun Facts | Survived a near-fatal accident, plays rhythm guitar in a band. |
Height, Weight, Body Measurements
| Height | 6 feet 4 inches |
|---|---|
| Weight | N/A |
| Body Measurements | N/A |
| Eye Color | Blue |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown |
| Chest Size | N/A |
| Waist Size | N/A |
| Biceps Size | N/A |
| Height in Centimeters | 193 cm |
| Height in Meters | 1.93 m |
| Height in Feet Inches | 6’4″ |
Scientific or Professional Career
| Fields of Expertise | Creative Writing, Literary Analysis, Film Adaptation |
|---|---|
| Institutions | N/A |
| Contributions | Significant influence on the horror genre and modern literature. |
Legacy
Stephen King’s legacy is multifaceted. As one of the most influential writers of the 20th and 21st centuries, he has left an indelible mark on the literary world. His ability to tap into universal fears and emotions makes his work timeless, ensuring that he will be read and studied for generations to come.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Stephen King’s journey from a young, struggling writer to the iconic author of numerous bestsellers is nothing short of inspirational. His ability to overcome adversity and stay true to his passion has left an indelible mark on the creative world. As a master of storytelling, King has brought joy and terror to countless readers and filmgoers. His legacy, both in literature and philanthropy, will continue to shine bright.
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