Robert Towne, the Oscar-winning screenwriter of 'Chinatown' and 'The Last Detail,' passed away peacefully at home on Monday at 89, surrounded by his family.

Towne, a seminal figure in Hollywood, left an indelible mark on American cinema with his exceptional screenwriting. Known for crafting iconic films like 'Chinatown' and contributing to classics such as 'Bonnie and Clyde' and 'The Godfather,' Towne received numerous accolades, including an Academy Award. His career, also highlighted by roles in TV series and directing, has been a lasting influence in the industry. Towne’s legacy lives on through his memorable lines and the continuing study of his scripts in film writing classes.

Robert Bertram Schwartz, known professionally as Robert Towne, was born in Los Angeles. He began his screenwriting career with the 1960 horror mystery 'Last Woman on Earth.' Towne soon established himself in the television industry, contributing to several series including 'The Lloyd Bridges Show,' 'Breaking Point,' and 'The Man from U.N.C.L.E.' His early work showcased his ability to craft engaging narratives across different mediums.

Towne extended his creative influence through uncredited work on several high-profile projects. Notably, he contributed as a ghostwriter to 'Bonnie and Clyde' and 'The Godfather,' two films that have left a lasting impact on American cinema. His knack for storytelling and dialogue garnered him critical acclaim and cemented his place in Hollywood.

Towne's most celebrated achievement came with the 1974 film 'Chinatown,' which earned him an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. The film, directed by Roman Polanski and starring Jack Nicholson, became a defining moment in his career. 'Chinatown' is often hailed as a masterpiece of the neo-noir genre, and its iconic line, 'Forget it, Jake, it's Chinatown,' has become part of the cultural lexicon.

In addition to 'Chinatown,' Towne garnered Academy Award nominations for his work on 'The Last Detail,' 'Shampoo,' and 'Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan, Lord of the Apes.' Despite his dissatisfaction with the final cut of 'Greystoke,' leading him to use the pseudonym P.H. Vazak, the film remains a significant part of his oeuvre.

Towne's career also included directing, with four films under his belt, the most notable being 'Tequila Sunrise.' Starring Mel Gibson, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Kurt Russell, the 1988 film was a commercial success, though it received mixed reviews from critics. His foray into directing showcased his versatility and willingness to explore different aspects of filmmaking.

In the 1990s, Towne continued to influence the industry, writing for the first two 'Mission: Impossible' films. His collaboration with director Brian De Palma and producer/star Tom Cruise helped revitalize the action spy genre, further demonstrating his adaptability as a screenwriter.

Towne's legacy is not limited to the big screen. He also played a significant role in television, serving as a consulting producer on the critically acclaimed series 'Mad Men.' This involvement in a new generation of storytelling testified to the enduring relevance of his expertise and creative vision.

Throughout his career, Towne received numerous accolades, including a lifetime achievement award from the Writers Guild of America in 1997. This honor recognized his contributions to the field of screenwriting and his impact on the film industry.

Despite experiencing a decline in his career after the mid-1970s, Towne's influence on screenwriting persisted. His scripts remain a staple of film writing classes, where students analyze his work for its narrative structure, character development, and dialogue.

Towne was married twice and had two children. His personal life, however, remained relatively private compared to his professional accomplishments. His family has requested privacy during this time as they mourn the loss of a beloved husband and father.

Towne's last completed film project was 'Ask the Dust,' released in 2006. Starring Colin Farrell and Salma Hayek, the film was an adaptation of John Fante's 1939 novel. While it did not achieve the same level of acclaim as some of his earlier works, it remains a testament to his enduring passion for storytelling.

Robert Towne's passing marks the end of an era in Hollywood. His contributions to screenwriting have left an indelible mark on American cinema, and his influence will be felt for generations to come. As the film industry continues to evolve, Towne's legacy as a master storyteller will undoubtedly remain a cornerstone of cinematic history.