Childhood and Education Journey of Aaron Sorkin in Timeline

Discover the defining moments in the early life of Aaron Sorkin. From birth to education, explore key events.

Aaron Sorkin is an acclaimed American screenwriter, playwright, and film director known for his distinctive fast-paced dialogue, extended monologues, and the 'walk and talk' storytelling technique. His impressive body of work spans stage, television, and film, earning him significant recognition in the entertainment industry. Sorkin's achievements include an Academy Award, a BAFTA Award, five Primetime Emmy Awards, and three Golden Globe Awards, solidifying his position as a prominent figure in contemporary media.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles

June 9, 1961: Aaron Sorkin's Birth

On June 9, 1961, Aaron Benjamin Sorkin was born in New York City. He would later become an acclaimed American screenwriter, playwright, and film director known for his fast-paced dialogue.

Others born on this day/year

1968: Chicago Democratic Convention riots

In 1968, the Chicago Democratic Convention riots occurred, which became the subject of the film The Trial of the Chicago 7, written and directed by Sorkin.

1979: Sorkin Attends Syracuse University

In 1979, Aaron Sorkin began attending Syracuse University.

1979: Scarsdale High School Graduation

In 1979, Aaron Sorkin graduated from Scarsdale High School, where he was involved in the drama club.

1983: Graduation from Syracuse University

In 1983, Aaron Sorkin graduated from Syracuse University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in musical theatre.

1987: Sorkin starts using marijuana and cocaine

In 1987, Aaron Sorkin began using marijuana and cocaine to relieve nervous tension.

1995: Rehabilitation at Hazelden Institute

In 1995, Aaron Sorkin sought rehabilitation at the Hazelden Institute in Minnesota to combat his addiction, on the advice of his wife, Julia Bingham.

1996: Marriage to Julia Bingham

In 1996, Aaron Sorkin married Julia Bingham.

April 15, 2001: Arrest at Hollywood Burbank Airport

On April 15, 2001, Aaron Sorkin was arrested at Hollywood Burbank Airport for possession of hallucinogenic mushrooms, marijuana, crack cocaine, and a metal crack pipe.

2001: Arrest for Drug Possession

In 2001, after completing the second season of The West Wing, Aaron Sorkin had a drug relapse and was arrested at Hollywood Burbank Airport for possession of hallucinogenic mushrooms, marijuana, and crack cocaine.

2005: Divorce from Julia Bingham

In 2005, Aaron Sorkin and Julia Bingham divorced, reportedly due to work habits and drug abuse.

May 13, 2012: Sorkin's commencement speech at Syracuse University

On May 13, 2012, in a commencement speech for Syracuse University, Aaron Sorkin stated he had not used cocaine for eleven years.

August 2014: Signing of open letter condemning Hamas

In August 2014, Aaron Sorkin signed an open letter from members of the Hollywood community condemning Hamas rocket attacks on Israel during the 2014 Gaza War.

2016: Open letter to his daughter after Trump's election

In 2016, after Donald Trump won the election, Aaron Sorkin wrote an open letter to his daughter Roxy and her mother Julia.

2021: Dating Paulina Porizkova

In 2021, Aaron Sorkin dated Paulina Porizkova for a few months.

November 2022: Sorkin suffers a stroke

In November 2022, Aaron Sorkin suffered a stroke caused by hypertension, leading him to quit smoking, change his diet, and begin exercising daily.

2022: Sorkin quits smoking after stroke

In 2022, Sorkin quit smoking after having a stroke. He was known to chain smoke while plotting scripts in his office.

October 2023: Sorkin drops CAA over post critical of Israel

In October 2023, Aaron Sorkin dropped CAA over a post critical of Israel made by its co-chief of the motion pictures department, Maha Dakhil, during the Gaza war.

October 2023: Signing of letter calling for release of Israeli hostages

In October 2023, Aaron Sorkin was among Hollywood signatories of a letter calling on President Biden to work toward the release of all Israeli hostages after the October 7 Hamas-led attack on Israel.