History of John Irving in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 20, 2026

John Irving, an American and Canadian novelist, short story writer, and screenwriter, is celebrated for his darkly comedic and often socially conscious novels. His works frequently explore themes of sexual identity, gender, and social injustice, often featuring eccentric characters and grappling with serious issues such as rape, abuse, and political activism. Irving is known for his intricate plots, wrestling themes, and memorable characters, making him a prominent figure in contemporary literature. He won an Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay for 'The Cider House Rules' and has received numerous other literary awards.

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Full Timeline

1963: Meeting Shyla Leary at Harvard

In 1963, John Irving met Shyla Leary at Harvard while taking a summer course in German.

1964: Marriage to Shyla Leary

In 1964, John Irving married Shyla Leary, whom he had met at Harvard in 1963. They traveled to Vienna with IES Abroad and had two sons, Colin and Brendan.

1981: Visit to Israel

In 1981, John Irving visited Israel at the invitation of the Jerusalem International Book Fair. He met a Holocaust survivor who invented a technique for growing asparagus in the desert, which inspired his writing.

1987: Marriage to Janet Turnbull

In 1987, John Irving married Janet Turnbull, who had been his publisher at Bantam-Seal Books. They have one daughter, actor and writer Eva Everett Irving.

2007: Diagnosis of Prostate Cancer

In 2007, John Irving was diagnosed with prostate cancer and subsequently underwent a radical prostatectomy.

2010: Relationship to Amy Bishop

In 2010, John Irving's second cousin, Amy Bishop, was convicted of perpetrating the 2010 University of Alabama in Huntsville shooting.

October 28, 2018: Richard C. Holbrooke Distinguished Achievement Award

On October 28, 2018, John Irving received the Richard C. Holbrooke Distinguished Achievement Award at the annual Dayton Literary Peace Prize gala.

2018: Honorary Degree from Williams College

In 2018, John Irving received an honorary degree from Williams College.

December 13, 2019: Became a Canadian Citizen

On December 13, 2019, John Irving became a Canadian citizen. He stated his intention to retain his U.S. citizenship and remain outspoken about the United States and his disapproval of Donald Trump.