Leigh Brackett was a trailblazing American author and screenwriter, often called the “Queen of Space Opera.” She was a prominent figure during the Golden Age of Science Fiction, known for her vivid storytelling in works like the Eric John Stark series. Brackett also made her mark in Hollywood, co-writing scripts for iconic films such as The Big Sleep (1946) and The Empire Strikes Back (1980). Her ability to blend hard-boiled noir with imaginative science fiction set her apart as a versatile and influential writer.