Linda Seger, Leading Script Consultant and Screenwriting Authority, Dies at 80

Hollywood Reporter

by Mike Barnes

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Linda Seger, a highly influential script consultant and screenwriting authority who worked on films such as *Dead Alive* and *Universal Soldier*, has passed away at the age of 80 due to breast cancer. Known for her groundbreaking approach to script analysis, Seger developed methodologies that transformed how writers and filmmakers approached their craft. Her work with notable directors like Peter Jackson and Roland Emmerich, along with her 11 books on screenwriting, left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Seger’s career began in 1981 after completing her doctoral dissertation, *What Makes a Script Work?*, which formed the basis of her script consulting business. Her first book, *Making a Good Script Great: A Guide for Writing and Rewriting*, became a staple for screenwriters, with Ron Howard famously using it on films like *Apollo 13*. Tony Bill, William Kelley, and Barbara Corday also praised the book, solidifying its reputation as an essential resource in the field. Over her career, Seger consulted on over 2,500 scripts and taught screenwriting across six continents. Her expertise extended to working on films like *Romero*, *The Neverending Story II*, and *Luther*, among many others. Beyond consulting, she authored numerous books, including *Creating Unforgettable Characters* and *The Art of Adaptation: Turning Fact and Fiction Into Film*. Seger’s influence also reached

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Originally published on Hollywood Reporter on 2/23/2026