Renowned Writer-Producer Roberto Orci Passes Away at 51

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Roberto “Bob” Gaston Orci, a celebrated writer and producer known for his work on blockbuster films and popular television series, died at his home in Los Angeles on February 25, 2025, at the age of 51 after a prolonged battle with kidney disease.

Orci, born and raised in Mexico City, moved to the United States at age 10. He began his career as a writer-producer on iconic series such as “Xena: Warrior Princess” and “Hercules: The Legendary Journeys.” He frequently collaborated with fellow writer Alex Kurtzman, forming a partnership that led to numerous high-profile projects.

Throughout his career, Orci contributed to the reboots of the popular “Transformers” franchise and the acclaimed “Star Trek” films. He was a co-writer and producer on the 2009 “Star Trek” reboot and its follow-ups, as well as on the 2007 film “Transformers” and its 2009 sequel, “Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.” His other notable feature film credits include writing for “Mission: Impossible III” and “The Legend Of Zorro,” alongside producing credits for the “Now You See Me” franchise and the films “The Proposal,” “Eagle Eye,” and “The Amazing Spider-Man 2.”n

In television, Orci was recognized as a co-creator and executive producer on CBS’s reboot of “Hawaii Five-0,” which spanned over 200 episodes. He also played instrumental roles in the creation of Fox’s “Fringe” and “Sleepy Hollow,” as well as contributing to ABC’s “Alias” and CBS’s “Scorpion.” His latest endeavor was founding Rubber Room Media, a production company focusing on writer-driven content.

Upon his passing, Orci’s brother J.R. Orci paid tribute, saying, “He was a visionary storyteller with a boundless heart and a beautiful soul. But beyond his creative talents, he was a compassionate friend who would put his life on hold to help a stranger and find room in his home for the most overlooked pup at the shelter.” The Orci family, which includes his father, Sr. Orci, mother Macuqui Robau-Garcia, siblings J.R. Orci, Taylor Orci, and Courtney Ford, and his dog Bogey, mourns the loss of a beloved son and sibling.

Orci’s contributions to the entertainment industry have left an indelible mark, influencing the storytelling and production landscape, especially in the action-adventure and sci-fi genres. He is remembered fondly by fans and colleagues alike as a driving force in modern cinema.