Robert Towne, the Oscar-winning screenwriter of 'Chinatown' and influential figure in Hollywood, died at 89 on Monday at his Los Angeles home, surrounded by family, his publicist confirmed.

Towne, renowned for his groundbreaking work in screenwriting, leaves behind a lasting legacy that shaped modern cinema. Best known for his Oscar-winning script for 'Chinatown,' Towne was also a pivotal yet often uncredited force behind several iconic films, including 'The Godfather' and 'Bonnie and Clyde.' Over his career, he garnered three additional Academy Award nominations and directed several films, while also contributing to acclaimed TV series like 'Mad Men.' Towne's profound impact on Hollywood storytelling and his visionary depiction of Los Angeles have cemented his place as one of the industry's greats.

Robert Towne's unfortunate passing was confirmed on Monday by his publicist, Carri McClure. Details regarding the cause of his death have not been disclosed. Towne, whose career spanned several decades, was immensely respected for his contributions to both film and television.

Towne's triumph came with his masterpiece 'Chinatown,' which earned him an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. Featuring Jack Nicholson and directed by Roman Polanski, 'Chinatown' is considered one of the greatest screenplays ever written. It remains a fundamental study material in film writing courses and is celebrated for its complex narrative structure and deft character development.

In addition to his win for 'Chinatown,' Towne was nominated for three other Academy Awards. His work on 'The Last Detail' (1973), 'Shampoo' (1975), and 'Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan, Lord of the Apes' (1984) brought him critical acclaim and showcased his versatility as a writer. Each screenplay demonstrated a unique approach to storytelling, further solidifying his status in the industry.

Towne frequently operated behind the scenes, enhancing scripts for which he often didn't receive credit. His talents were utilized in significant films like 'The Godfather' and 'Bonnie and Clyde.' Although his contributions were anonymous, they were vital in shaping the final versions of these cinematic landmarks. This ability to improve the work of others made him one of Hollywood's most sought-after script doctors.

In the 1990s, Towne continued his work with a sequel to his most famous creation. He wrote 'The Two Jakes,' a follow-up to 'Chinatown,' which was directed by Jack Nicholson. Despite not reaching the same acclaim as its predecessor, the film provided a continuation of the story and allowed Towne to revisit characters and themes close to his heart.

Towne's influence extended beyond the big screen into television. He served as a consulting producer on the Emmy-winning series 'Mad Men,' which was lauded for its intricate storytelling and historical authenticity. His involvement in the series demonstrated his adaptability and sustained relevance in the ever-evolving landscape of narrative media.

Towne didn't only write for the screen but also took on the role of director for four films, most notably 'Tequila Sunrise' (1988), which he also wrote. This film, known for its complicated plot and deep character interactions, further exhibited Towne's comprehensive storytelling talent.

Throughout his career, Towne received numerous accolades. In 1997, he was honored with a lifetime achievement award from the Writers Guild of America. This esteemed recognition reflected his sustained excellence and his influence on generations of screenwriters.

Before his success in film, Towne's career began with television. He contributed writing to shows such as 'The Man from U.N.C.L.E.' and 'The Lloyd Bridges Show.' These early works allowed him to hone his skills and gain recognition within the industry.

Towne's writing for 'Chinatown' was notably influenced by the fiction of Raymond Chandler. The intricate, dark, and morally ambiguous world he created in the script bore hallmarks of Chandler's style, fitting seamlessly into the film noir genre.

Discovering the collaborative nature of filmmaking was crucial for Towne. His script for 'Chinatown' has served as a model for film students and industry professionals alike, demonstrating the importance of cooperation between writers, directors, and actors in producing outstanding cinema.

Towne's career was peppered with close relationships with Hollywood stars such as Warren Beatty and Jack Nicholson. These friendships not only influenced his career trajectory but also often resulted in fruitful collaborations that solidified the legacies of those involved.

A distinctive element of Towne's screenplays was his personal vision of Los Angeles. His scripts frequently depicted the city with a blend of affection and critique, offering audiences a nuanced portrayal of its complexities. This vision was evident in works from 'Chinatown' to 'Tequila Sunrise,' reflecting his profound connection to the city he called home.

Robert Towne's passing marks the end of an era for Hollywood screenwriting. His remarkable body of work continues to inspire and educate new generations of filmmakers. While he may no longer be with us, his legacy endures through the iconic films he helped bring to life and the lessons he imparted to the craft of screenwriting.