Forrest Ackerman

American magazine editor, science fiction writer and literary agent, a founder of science fiction fandom, a leading expert on science fiction, horror, and fantasy films, and acknowledged as the world's most avid collector of genre books and movie memorabilia. He was, for over seven decades, one of science fiction's staunchest spokesmen and promoters. Famous for his word play and neologisms, he coined the genre nickname "sci-fi".

During his career as a literary agent, Ackerman represented such noted science fiction authors as Ray Bradbury, Isaac Asimov, A.E. Van Vogt, Curt Siodmak, and L. Ron Hubbard.

Ackerman was the editor and principal writer of the American magazine Famous Monsters of Filmland, as well as an actor, from the 1950s into the 21st century.

Also called "Forry", "Uncle Forry", "The Ackermonster", "Dr. Acula", "Forjak", "4e" and "4SJ", Ackerman was central to the formation, organization and spread of science fiction fandom and a key figure in the wider cultural perception of science fiction as a literary, art, and film genre.

Ackerman died in Los Angeles a minute before midnight on 4 December 2008 at the age of 92. His extensive collection of Science Fiction and Horror memorabilia included Bela Lugosi's ring from Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein and Lon Chaney's teeth and top hat from London After Midnight.