Bob Rafelson

Robert "Bob" Rafelson (February 21, 1933-July 23, 2022) was an American film director, writer and producer. He was most famous for directing and co-writing the film Five Easy Pieces, starring Jack Nicholson, as well as being one of the creators of the pop group and TV series, The Monkees (with Raybert/BBS Productions partner Bert Schneider). Rafelson was born in New York City, the son of a hat manufacturer. His uncle was screenwriter and playwright Samson Raphaelson. Rafelson and Nicholson have been collaborators for over thirty years. Nicholson and Rafelson wrote and produced and Rafelson directed Head, starring the Monkees, in 1968, followed by Five Easy Pieces. In subsequent years, Rafelson directed Nicholson in four more films, including The King of Marvin Gardens (1972), The Postman Always Rings Twice (1981), Man Trouble (1992), and Blood and Wine (1996). Rafelson has adapted the works of legendary noir authors James M. Cain, Raymond Chandler, and Dashiell Hammett.

Bob Rafelson is known for work in directing across film and television. New Release currently presents 25 verified screen credits connected to this profile. Selected work includes Notre Dame de la Croisette (1983), Film '72 (1971), The Monkees (1966), The Greatest Show on Earth (1963), Leaving Las Vegas (1995), The Last Picture Show (1971), The Postman Always Rings Twice (1981), Poodle Springs (1998). The recorded credits span 1963 to 2017, including 21 movies and 4 TV shows. The filmography below lists available titles, release years and known roles. This profile is updated as additional verified information becomes available.