California [US], February 26: Renowned writer and producer Roberto Orci, known for his work on blockbuster films like Star Trek and Transformers, has passed away at the age of 51. He died at his Los Angeles home after a battle with kidney disease, as reported by Deadline.
Orci co-wrote and produced the 2009 Star Trek movie reboot and its sequels, as well as the 2007 Transformers film and its 2009 follow-up, Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen. His impressive career also included writing for Mission Impossible III and The Legend of Zorro, and producing for movies like Now You See Me, The Proposal, Eagle Eye, The Mummy, and The Amazing Spider-Man 2, which he also co-wrote.
Born in Mexico City, Orci moved to the United States at the age of 10. His career began with writing and producing for Xena: Warrior Princess and Hercules: The Legendary Journeys. Orci frequently collaborated with Alex Kurtzman, with whom he formed a successful partnership throughout much of his career.
In television, Orci co-created and executive produced the Hawaii Five-0 reboot, as well as Fringe and Sleepy Hollow. He also contributed to Alias and Scorpion. His latest venture was Rubber Room Media, a writer-driven production company.
Orci’s family shared heartfelt condolences following his passing. His brother, J.R. Orci, remembered him as a “visionary storyteller with a boundless heart and a beautiful soul,” noting his deep compassion for others. Orci was also open about his past struggles with alcoholism and his journey to recovery. He is survived by his father, Roberto Orci Sr., mother Macuqui Robau-Garcia, stepmother Jeanine Orci, and siblings J.R. Orci, Taylor Orci, and Courtney Ford.