Peter Hedges

Biography

Peter Hedges (born July 6, 1962) is an American novelist, playwright, screenwriter, and film director, acclaimed for his emotionally resonant storytelling that often explores themes of family, identity, and personal struggle.

Early Life and Education

Hedges was born in West Des Moines, Iowa, to Carole Simpson, a psychotherapist, and the Rev. Robert Boyden Hedges, an Episcopal priest. Raised primarily by his father after his mother left during his early childhood, he developed an early interest in theater, participating in his high school's drama department and mime troupe, "The Bakers Dozen." He pursued formal training in drama at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, graduating in 1984. ​

Literary and Theatrical Beginnings

Hedges began his creative career as a playwright, founding the Edge Theater in New York City with fellow UNCSA alumni, including Mary-Louise Parker and Joe Mantello. His early plays, such as Imagining Brad and Baby Anger, were well-received in the Off-Broadway scene. In 1991, he published his debut novel, What's Eating Gilbert Grape, which he later adapted into a critically acclaimed film directed by Lasse Hallström.

Film Career

Hedges' screenwriting prowess was further recognized with his adaptation of Nick Hornby's About a Boy (2002), earning him an Academy Award nomination for Best Adapted Screenplay.

He made his directorial debut with Pieces of April (2003), a film he also wrote, which starred Katie Holmes and was dedicated to his mother. He continued to write and direct films that delve into complex family dynamics, including Dan in Real Life (2007), The Odd Life of Timothy Green (2012), and Ben Is Back (2018), the latter featuring his son, actor Lucas Hedges, alongside Julia Roberts. ​

Novels

In addition to What's Eating Gilbert Grape, Hedges has authored two other novels: An Ocean in Iowa (1998) and The Heights (2010), both of which continue his exploration of familial and personal themes.

Personal Life

Peter Hedges is married to poet Susan Bruce Titman. They have two sons: Simon, who works in private equity, and Lucas, an Academy Award-nominated actor known for roles in films like Manchester by the Sea and Lady Bird.