End of an Era—Oscar-Winning Wordsmith Alan Bergman Takes His Final Bow

Image Source: Variety

Alan Bergman, the legendary lyricist whose words shaped some of Hollywood’s most unforgettable melodies, passed away on July 17, 2025, at his home in Los Angeles. He was 99. Known for his decades-long collaboration with his wife, Marilyn Bergman, Alan helped pen timeless classics like “The Way We Were,” “The Windmills of Your Mind,” and “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers.”

A Career Etched in Lyrics and Legacy
Academy Awards: 3 wins, including for “The Way We Were” and “Yentl”

Grammy Awards: 2 wins, including Song of the Year for “The Way We Were”

Emmy Awards: 4 wins for TV compositions including “Sybil” and “Ordinary Miracles”

Songwriters Hall of Fame: Inducted in 1980

Collaborated with icons like Barbra Streisand, Frank Sinatra, Michel Legrand, and Quincy Jones

Alan and Marilyn Bergman were one of the most celebrated songwriting duos in film history, with 16 Oscar nominations and a lyrical style that blended Tin Pan Alley sentiment with contemporary pop.

Final Days and Tributes
Bergman had been battling respiratory issues but continued writing until the end

He is survived by his daughter Julie Bergman and granddaughter Emily Sender

A centennial celebration of his life and work will proceed as planned at Santa Monica’s Broad Stage, featuring artists like Michael Feinstein, Jackson Browne, and Patti Austin

“Alan and Marilyn lived from a place called Love,” said Feinstein in tribute.

Sources: Moneycontrol, CBS News, Hollywood Reporter, USA Today, People Magazine