Forrest J. Ackerman

Forrest J Ackerman (November 24, 1916 – December 4, 2008) was an American editor, author, literary agent, and collector. As the founding editor of Famous Monsters of Filmland magazine, he is considered a pioneer in science fiction and horror fan culture. He is known as the person who popularized the acronym "Sci-fi"; He was known as "Uncle Forry" among his fans.

He was born in Los Angeles. In his teenage years, he joined the first generation of organized science fiction fandom; He became one of the initiators of this tradition by going to the first World Science Fiction Congress in costume in 1939. In 1953, he received a special Hugo Award as the ultimate fan personality, which was never given to anyone else again.

Editing, agency and collection

Famous Monsters of Filmland, which he founded in 1958, became a publication that introduced old horror films to new generations and influenced the childhood of many filmmakers. As a literary agent, he represented nearly two hundred authors, including Ray Bradbury, Isaac Asimov, A. E. van Vogt, and L. Ron Hubbard. He was among the creators of the comic book character Vampirella. He spoke Esperanto fluently and advocated for the language.

He has amassed a collection of nearly 300,000 items at his home in Los Angeles, ranging from movie props and costumes to books; This house, known as the "Ackermansion", was kept open to fans. He appeared in small guest roles in many films. Ackerman died at the age of 92 of heart failure on December 4, 2008, in Los Angeles.