Who Is Wilbur Smith? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Wilbur Smith, born on January 9, 1933, was a revered South African novelist whose compelling stories captivated readers around the globe. He passed away on April 13, 2021, at the age of 88. Smith was renowned for his rich depictions of Africa, weaving historical narratives with thrilling adventure. His prolific writing career spanned several decades and yielded multiple bestsellers, securing his place as one of the foremost authors of historical fiction.
| Occupation | Novelist |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | January 9, 1933 |
| Age | 88 Years |
| Birth Place | Ndola, Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia) |
| Horoscope | Capricorn |
| Country | South Africa |
| Date of death | 13 November, 2021 |
| Died Place | Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa |
Popularity
Wilbur Smith's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While specific details about Wilbur Smith's height and weight aren't widely documented, authors and public figures often maintain a reasonable level of fitness. Smith was known for his energetic lifestyle and adventurous spirit, which translated into his writing. Since he had a remarkable career that required a level of discipline and health, it’s safe to say he kept himself fit throughout his life.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Wilbur Smith was married several times throughout his life. His relationships were often the subject of curiosity, given his adventurous life and vivid storytelling. Smith's most notable relationships include his marriages to his first wife, Evelyn, and his later partners, including Sancha and she ultimately became a prominent figure in his life. At the time of his passing, Smith was married to his fourth wife, who continued his legacy and works.
He was named after the aviator Wilbur Wright. His father was a metal worker who opened a sheet metal factory and then created a 25,000 acre cattle ranch on the banks of the Kafue River near Mazabuka, by buying up a number of separate farms. "My father was a tough man", said Smith.
"He was used to working with his hands and had massively developed arms from cutting metal. He was a boxer, a hunter, very much a man's man. I don't think he ever read a book in his life, including mine".
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his death, Wilbur Smith was estimated to have a net worth of around $20 million. His wealth was primarily accrued from his successful career as an author, with some of his books selling millions of copies worldwide. Additionally, movie adaptations of his works contributed significantly to his earnings. Wilbur's literary prowess not only blossomed through his novels but also through international book deals and royalties.
With spare time in the evening and access to plenty of pens and paper through his job at the Inland Revenue Service, Smith turned back to his love of writing. In April 1963, he sold his first story, "On Flinder’s Face", under the pen name Steven Lawrence to Argosy magazine for £70, twice his monthly salary.
After a number of further acceptances, he wrote his first novel, The Gods First Make Mad, but received 20 rejections. Reviewing what he had written, Smith could see that he had a novel of 180,000 words: it was too long, badly written, had too many characters, and tried to express opinions on everything from politics and racial tension to women.
Dejected he returned to work as an accountant.
Career, Business, and Investments
Wilbur Smith's career flourished with the publication of his first novel, "When the Lion Feeds," in 1964. He became known for his deep knowledge of African history, which he skillfully incorporated into his narratives. Over his lifetime, he released over 30 novels, many of which became bestsellers.
In addition to writing, Smith engaged in various business ventures that reflected his passion for storytelling and Africa, including producing film adaptations of his novels. His investments included properties and ventures tied to the tourism industry, promoting Africa's beauty and fostering cultural appreciation.
After reading the manuscript Smith's agent rang Charles Pick, the deputy managing director of William Heinemann and convinced him to look at the novel. She also asked for an advance of £500, a guaranteed initial print run of 5,000 copies, and that it be published before Christmas.
Impressed after just the first chapter, over the weekend Pick gave it to the company’s sales director Tim Manderson, who agreed that it should be published. Pick rang Winant and offered an advance of £1,000, with an initial print run of 10,000 copies. By the publication date Heinemanns had increased the print run to 20,000.
Social Network
Although social media was not available during much of Wilbur Smith's life, he adapted to modern communication methods, using platforms to connect with fans and share his thoughts. Today, his legacy continues online, with official tribute pages and fan clubs that promote his works and maintain his connection to readers. Smith's official website and various literary platforms still showcase his contributions to literature.
Smith stayed with the Courtney family for Power of the Sword (1986) (up to World War II), Rage (1987) (the post-war period up until the Sharpeville massacre), A Time to Die (1989) (the war in Mozambique) and Golden Fox (1990) (the Angola War).
Education
Wilbur Smith attended the University of Natal, where he earned a degree in Journalism and also studied history. His academic background deeply influenced his writing, as he frequently combined historical facts with thrilling fiction, transporting his readers to vibrant and historically rich landscapes.
For high school Smith attended Michaelhouse, a boarding school situated in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. He felt that he never "fitted in" with the people, goals and interests of the other students at Michaelhouse, but he did start a school newspaper and which he wrote all the content, except for the sports pages.
His weekly satirical column became mildly famous and was circulated as far afield as The Wykeham Collegiate and St Anne's.
