Robert Klane, ‘Weekend at Bernie’s’ Screenwriter, Dies at 81

Robert Klane, screenwriter of films including Weekend at Bernies and Wheres Poppa?, died from kidney failure on Aug. 29 at his home in Woodland Hills, Calif. He was 81.

Klanes son Jon shared the news with Variety in a statement, which reads, Klanes satirical and daring writing pushed the boundaries of good taste, while depicting the unfairness of life through themes of sex, family, madness and death.

Bob had a brilliant comedy mind that went deeper and deeper to get to the truth, said filmmaker and actor Rob Reiner, who appeared in Wheres Poppa? Most people have a censor in their minds and know how far they can go. Bob didnt have a censor. Thats what made him great and set him apart. He was fearless.

Klane wrote the screenplays for dark comedies such as 1989s Weekend at Bernies and its 1993 sequel, as well as 1970s Wheres Poppa?, which is based on his novel of the same name. His other screenwriting credits include Every Little Crook and Nanny, Unfaithfully Yours, The Man With One Red Shoe, Walk Like a Man, Folks! and National Lampoons European Vacation.

Klane was born on Oct. 17, 1941, in Port Jefferson, Long Island. His mother Adele was a homemaker and community volunteer, and his father Edward was a physician.

After graduating from Bayport High School, Klane attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, earning a degree in English in 1963.

Random House published Klanes first novel, The Horse Is Dead, in 1967. Along with adapting Wheres Poppa? into a film, with Carl Reiner as director, Klane adapted his 1975 novel Fire Sale into the 1977 comedy directed by and starring Alan Arkin.

Klanes directorial debut Thank God Its Friday starred Donna Summers and featured the singer-songwriter performing Last Dance, which scored the Oscar for best song in 1978. He also directed Weekend at Bernies II and the TV movie The Odd Couple: Together Again.

Klanes television writing credits include M*A*S*H and Tracy Takes on, which won an Emmy for best variety or musical program.

Klane is survived by his wife J.C. Scott, his brother Larry, his sons David and Jon, his daughter Caitlin and five grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his daughter Tracy in 2011.