Exclusive representative for the Literary Estate of George Clayton Johnson (Ocean’s 11, Twilight Zone, Star Trek, Logan’s Run). Associates based in Atlanta, Los Angeles and New York. WBMT also works with authors regarding copyright recapture of grants and licenses previously granted to motion picture studios.
GEORGE CLAYTON JOHNSON
George Clayton Johnson (1929–2015) was an influential American writer best known for his contributions to the realms of science fiction and fantasy, particularly through his work in television, film, and literature. Johnson’s legacy is deeply intertwined with iconic projects such as The Twilight Zone, Star Trek, and Logan’s Run, each reflecting his imaginative storytelling and philosophical depth. He gained fame for his innovative storytelling and imaginative ideas, particularly in works that pushed the boundaries of speculative fiction.
Johnson began his career with a flair for speculative fiction, with his first work being the story for Ocean’s 11, which became the basis for the classic 1960 film. He later co-wrote the novel Logan’s Run with William F. Nolan, which inspired the 1976 film and a television series. The narrative explores a dystopian future where life is terminated at age 21 to maintain societal balance, delving into themes of mortality, freedom, and the human spirit’s resilience against authoritarian control.
His work on The Twilight Zone is particularly noteworthy, having penned classic episodes like “A Game of Pool,” “Kick the Can,” and “Nothing in the Dark.” These stories often grapple with existential questions, the nature of reality, and the human condition, encapsulating Johnson’s philosophical leanings toward the value of life, the fear of death, and the eternal search for meaning.
Johnson also made a significant mark on Star Trek, writing “The Man Trap,” the first episode aired of the original series. This episode highlighted his talent for blending speculative concepts with profound moral questions, as it examined themes of love, loss, and the ethical dilemmas posed by survival.
Throughout his body of work, Johnson’s philosophy of life shines through—an embrace of curiosity, a challenge to societal norms, and a celebration of individuality and human connection. His stories often reflect a belief in the power of imagination to confront existential fears and inspire change. Johnson viewed storytelling as a means to explore the vast complexities of existence, encouraging audiences to ponder their own lives and the broader universe.
George Clayton Johnson’s impact on popular culture is enduring, his narratives continuing to resonate with audiences through their timeless exploration of humanity’s hopes, fears, and boundless potential.
Key Contributions:
- Co-author of Logan’s Run:
- Johnson co-wrote the novel Logan’s Run (1967) with William F. Nolan. The book, a dystopian science fiction classic, explores themes of population control and rebellion. It inspired the 1976 film adaptation and subsequent TV series.
- Star Trek:
- He wrote “The Man Trap,” the first episode of Star Trek ever aired. It introduced audiences to the groundbreaking series, combining science fiction with social commentary.
- The Twilight Zone:
- Johnson wrote several iconic episodes of The Twilight Zone, including:
- “Nothing in the Dark,” a poignant tale about mortality starring a young Robert Redford.
- “Kick the Can,” a story about aging and rediscovering youth.
- “A Game of Pool,” exploring ambition and legacy.
- “A Penny for Your Thoughts,” featuring a man who gains telepathic powers.
- Johnson wrote several iconic episodes of The Twilight Zone, including:
- Oceans 11:
- Johnson penned the story and screenplay for the original 1960 film Ocean’s 11, starring Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack, later rebooted in the 21st century.
- Johnson penned the story and screenplay for the original 1960 film Ocean’s 11, starring Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack, later rebooted in the 21st century.
- Comic Books and Advocacy:
- Beyond screenwriting, Johnson wrote for comic books and was an advocate for writers’ rights in Hollywood, often pushing for better recognition and compensation for creators.
George Clayton Johnson’s legacy endures as a pioneer of thought-provoking storytelling that continues to resonate with audiences in literature and film.
George Clayton Johnson (July 10, 1929 – December 25, 2015)
George Clayton Johnson passed away today at 12:46 PM PST. December 25, 2015. Christmas Day. Thanks to everyone for the prayers and support, George lived a good life and an interesting life! Condolences to his son Paul, daughter Judy – and his loving and devoted wife of 62 years, Lola. It is a great honor to represent George and his work. It is a higher honor to be called his friend. – W. Brantley.
From The Independent, London, England
“His agent Whitt Brantley told The Independent that a remake of Logan’s Run is in the works and that Johnson had been developing a follow-up, Jessica’s Run. “George always believed the original novel needed a third act. Jessica’s Run is that third act,” he said.
He said of Johnson: “He was a such a sweet guy but he had a backbone made out of steel and one of the most beautiful minds I’ve ever known. What is it Nicholas Hilliard said about Sir Francis Bacon? Si tabula daretur digna, animum mallem: “If one could but paint his mind.“
George Clayton Johnson, novelist and screenwriter: born Cheyenne, Wyoming 10 July 1929; married 1952 Lola Brownstein (one daughter, one son); died North Hills, California 25 December 2015.