'The Terminator' co-writer William H. Wisher Jr. dies at 71

William H. Wisher Jr., the screenwriter who co-wrote The Terminator and Terminator 2: Judgment Day, has died at the age of 71.

His family confirmed that the filmmaker "passed away peacefully at home," remembering him as a storyteller whose work connected generations through cinema, as per Deadline.

Family remembers Wisher's legacy

In a statement, Wisher's family paid tribute to his life and career.

"William believed that stories have the power to connect people across generations. While the world celebrates the unforgettable films he helped create, we will remember him for his kindness, his humor, his brilliant imagination, and the love he gave so freely to his family and friends."

The family also thanked fans and colleagues for their support during the difficult time.

Helped shape the Terminator franchise

Wisher played a key role in defining the science fiction action genre by co-writing James Cameron's 1984 classic The Terminator. He reunited with Cameron for the blockbuster sequel, Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991), widely regarded as one of the greatest action films ever made.

Beyond the Terminator franchise, Wisher received writing credits on several major films, including Judge Dredd (1995), The 13th Warrior (1999), Exorcist: The Beginning (2004), Dominion: Prequel to the Exorcist (2005), Live Free or Die Hard (2007), and I.T. (2016).

Hollywood pays tribute

Following news of his death, The Terminator producer Gale Anne Hurd shared a heartfelt tribute.

"Such terribly sad news… Bill was not only integral to The Terminator but he was such an all-around great guy. RIP," Hurd wrote.

Survived by family

Wisher is survived by his wife, Deborah Lynn Wisher; his siblings Brian Wisher, John Wisher, Carla DeMaci and Dana Aboissiere; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members and friends.