Born on May 9, 1940 in New Jersey, United States. The creator (or co-creator) of hit television shows "Room 222" (1969-74), "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" (1970-77), and "Taxi" (1978-83). The multi-talented Brooks made his feature-film debut writing, producing, and directing "Terms of Endearment" (1983), which won Academy Awards for Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Screenplay.