Bruce Vilanch

Bruce Vilanch (born November 23, 1948) is an American comedian, songwriter and actor. He is best known for his four-years on Hollywood Squares, as a celebrity participant and head writer for the show. He has won six Emmy Awards. From 2000 to 2014, he was the head writer for the Oscars. For ten years before this role, he was the Oscar program co-writer. He is also a featured writer for the Tonys, Grammys and Emmys.

Vilanch was born in New York City, New York. He grew up in Paterson, New Jersey. He was adopted when he was four days old. He was raised in a Jewish family. He studied at the Ohio State University (OSU). He is openly gay.