Remembering David Seidler: The Man Who Gave Voice to the King
At the age of 87, the world mourns the loss of the talented writer David Seidler, known for his acclaimed scriptwriting, particularly for the film “The King’s Speech.” Seidler passed away while fly fishing in New Zealand, an activity that brought him great peace. His manager, Jeff Aghassi, noted that this peaceful departure would have been exactly how Seidler would have scripted it himself.
“The King’s Speech,” starring Colin Firth as King George VI, resonated deeply with audiences for its poignant portrayal of the monarch’s struggle with a severe stutter—a theme inspired by Seidler’s own childhood stammer. The film garnered widespread acclaim, winning four Oscars in 2011, including Best Picture and Best Writing for Seidler, along with numerous other awards.
Seidler’s journey with the story began in 1981 when he learned of King George VI’s speech therapist hired by the Queen Mother, though the film was delayed until after her passing due to her personal history. His legacy is celebrated for bringing this powerful narrative to the screen, showcasing the resilience of the human spirit and leaving an enduring impact on cinema.
