Maurice Hurley (screenwriter)

Maurice Hurley
Born	Maurice Hurley August 16, 1939 Boston, Massachusetts
Died	February 24, 2015 (age 75)
Nationality	American
Occupation	Screenwriter and producer

Maurice Hurley (August 16, 1939 – February 24, 2015) was an American screenwriter and producer known best for his work on Star Trek: The Next Generation.

Hurley wrote the script for the film Firebird 2015 AD in 1981.

In the 1980s, his work for television included writing scripts for The Equalizer and Miami Vice. He also produced some episodes of The Equalizer. His later TV efforts included writing and/or producing episodes for Baywatch, Diagnosis: Murder, 24, and La Femme Nikita.

Hurley was the series' initial head writer/show runner. His influence was substantial as he introduced creative elements on the series that are now part of the franchise, notably the Borg. However, his influence did attract some controversy; according to Rick Berman's May 2006 interview, it was Hurley who was responsible for the firing of Gates McFadden, who played the role of Dr. Beverly Crusher, at the end of the show's first season.. Berman said head writer Maurice Hurley "....had a real bone to pick" with McFadden and did not like her acting.

Hurley left the series after its second season, which allowed the return of McFadden to the role of Dr. Crusher. Hurley was replaced by Michael I. Wagner (for four episodes) and ultimately by Michael Piller.

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