Born in Hell's Kitchen on Manhattan's (NYC) West Side and, following military service in World War II, attended New York's New School for Social Research and Columbia University. His best-known novel, The Godfather, was preceded by two critically acclaimed novels, The Dark Arena and The Fortunate Pilgrim. In 1978, he published Fools Die, followed by The Sicilian (1984) and The Fourth K (1991). He also wrote several screenplays, including EARTHQUAKE, SUPERMAN, and all three GODFATHER movies, for which he received two Academy Awards. His 1996 novel, The Last Don, was made into a CBS television miniseries in May 1997, starring Danny Aiello, Kirsty Ally and Joe Montegna. In 1997, Part II was aired. Also in 1997, his novel The Fortunate Pilgrim was re-released by Random House. Puzo passed away July 2, 1999, at his home in Bay Shore, Long Island. His last novel, Omerta, was published posthumously. He is survived by his companion of 20 years, Carol Gino, and five children.  Writing (Best Screenplay based on material from another medium) 1972: THE GODFATHER (w. Francis Ford Coppola)  Writing (Best Screenplay adapted from other material) 1974: THE GODFATHER, PART II (w. Francis Ford Coppola) 2 nominations, 2 Awards