Famous Jew in History: Ben Hecht (1894–1964)

Born in New York City to Jewish immigrants from Russia, Ben Hecht became one of the most successful writers in Hollywood history. A former journalist, he wrote or contributed to more than 70 films, including Scarface and Wuthering Heights. In 1929, he won the first-ever Academy Award for Best Original Story and was widely regarded as one of the most talented screenwriters of his generation.

For much of his life, judaism was of little concern to Hecht. His focus was on journalism, writing and building his career. By the early 1940s, as reports emerged of the persecution and murder of European Jews, he experienced a profound awakening. Realising the scale of what was unfolding, Hecht became determined to use his talent and influence to help.

At a time when many public figures remained silent, Hecht became one of the most outspoken Jewish voices in America. He wrote powerful newspaper advertisements, articles and public appeals urging people not to ignore the plight of European Jewry. In 1943, he wrote We Will Never Die, a dramatic pageant performed before more than 40,000 people at Madison Square Garden to raise awareness of the mass murder of Jews in Europe. The production later toured the United States, bringing national attention to a tragedy that many preferred not to discuss.

Following the war, Hecht continued to advocate for Jewish refugees and the establishment of a Jewish homeland. His activism came at a personal cost, with some of his work facing boycotts and criticism, yet he refused to back down.

When Hecht died in 1964, he was remembered not only as one of Hollywood’s greatest writers, but also as a man who used his voice to stand up for his people when it mattered most. Looking back on his life, Hecht famously remarked, “I became a Jew in 1943.” This simple sentence captured a profound truth: the moment he truly understood that he was part of the Jewish story, he could not be silenced.

Learn more: Jewish Virtual Library - Ben Hecht