Biography

J.D. Shapiro

Jump to

JD grew up in North Jersey and Hell's Kitchen. As a child growing up poor with three sisters in a small, run-down house, JD's imagination became his sanctuary. Taking apart pens to see how they work, and undressing his sister's Barbie Dolls to see what was underneath, leading to a passion for storytelling and women. But not necessarily in that order

JD has sold over a dozen screenplays to almost every major Hollywood studio including, Warner Brothers, Disney, New Line, Miramax, Paramount & Twentieth Century Fox. He has done rewrites and punch-ups on many stupid scripts, as well as served as Creative Consult on many good movies. Several of his movies went on to became Hollywood blockbusters; his movies earning well over a billion dollars. JD's television deals include Fox, Big Ticket and Spelling Entertainment. Although JD writes in several genres, Mel Brooks called JD, "One of the greatest comic minds I've ever had the pleasure to work with" JD and comic book legend Stan Lee has been working together since 2002 creating new comic book series. JD is very proud to be considered Stan's protege. JD lives in CA, NYC, Madrid, Marbella, and Venice, Italy
- IMDb mini biography by: JD Shapiro

In 2005 J.D. started doing stand-up comedy. He has performed all over the country and was made a Paid Regular at The Comedy Store in Jan of 2006.
The original title for Robin Hood: Men in Tights (1993) was "Robbin' The Hood." Mel Brooks wanted to call it "Robin Hood: The True Story." J.D. didn't like it and came up with the title, Robin Hood: Men in Tights (1993). J.D. convinced Mel Brooks to cast Dave Chappelle in the role of Ahchoo. But could not convince Mel to cast Jim Carrey in the role of The Sheriff of Rotteningham.

[on 'Battlefield Earth (2000)_] It wasn't as I intended -- promise. No one sets out to make a train wreck. Actually, comparing it to a train wreck isn't really fair to train wrecks, because people actually want to watch those.
[on 'Battlefield Earth (2000)_] My script was very, VERY different than what ended up on the screen. My screenplay was darker, grittier and had a very compelling story with rich characters. What my screenplay didn't have was slow motion at every turn, Dutch tilts, campy dialogue, aliens in KISS boots, and everyone wearing Bob Marley wigs.
[on 'Battlefield Earth (2000)_] Now, looking back at the movie with fresh eyes, I can't help but be strangely proud of it. Because out of all the sucky movies, mine is the suckiest.

Suggest an edit or add missing content