Fri Jul 18 22:30:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing Alan Bergman’s life and career:

**Legendary Songwriter Alan Bergman Dies at 99, Co-Creator of Iconic Movie Themes**

**Los Angeles, CA** – Alan Bergman, the celebrated songwriter behind timeless classics like “The Way We Were” and “Papa, Can You Hear Me?”, has passed away at the age of 99. Bergman died peacefully at his home in Los Angeles on Thursday, July 17th, surrounded by family.

Alongside his late wife and songwriting partner, Marilyn Bergman, who passed away in 2022, Alan crafted hundreds of songs that resonated deeply with audiences, earning them widespread critical acclaim and solidifying their place as one of the most successful songwriting duos in history.

Born in Brooklyn, New York in 1925, Bergman discovered his passion for music at a young age, inspired by the big bands that dominated the radio waves. After initially pursuing a career in television, he was encouraged by songwriter Johnny Mercer to dedicate himself to songwriting. It was in Los Angeles that he met Marilyn, and their partnership, both professional and personal, blossomed.

Together, the Bergmans penned lyrics for some of cinema’s most memorable moments, collaborating frequently with Barbra Streisand and winning three Oscars (“The Windmills of Your Mind,” “The Way We Were,” and the score for “Yentl”), two Grammys, and four Emmys. Their work spanned a diverse range of projects, from the theme song for the sitcom “Good Times” to Broadway productions and chart-topping singles for artists like Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin.

“The Way We Were,” from the 1973 film, remains their most iconic achievement, winning them an Oscar and a Grammy for Song of the Year. Their ability to capture complex emotions in simple, yet powerful lyrics, defined their style and endeared them to generations of listeners.

Despite the often-melancholy themes in their songs, Bergman emphasized the joy they found in the creative process. Even after Marilyn’s death, he continued writing, demonstrating his unwavering dedication to his craft.

Alan Bergman is survived by his daughter, Julie Bergman, a writer and film producer, and granddaughter, Emily Sender. A private graveside burial will be held. His legacy as a master lyricist and his enduring contributions to music and film will continue to inspire artists and audiences for years to come.

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