Bret Easton Ellis was born on July 3, 1964, in Los Angeles, California. He grew up in a wealthy family in the San Fernando Valley. Ellis attended Bennington College, where he studied with fellow writer Jonathan Lethem.
Ellis made his literary debut in 1985 with the controversial novel, Less Than Zero. The novel explores the decadence and moral bankruptcy of privileged youth in Los Angeles. Less Than Zero was a critical and commercial success, establishing Ellis as a young literary talent to watch.
In 1991, Ellis published his most famous work, American Psycho. The novel follows the exploits of a Wall Street investment banker who leads a double life as a sadistic serial killer. American Psycho was met with both praise and outrage for its graphic violence and satirical portrayal of 1980s consumer culture.
Both Less Than Zero and American Psycho were adapted into feature films, propelling Ellis into the realm of Hollywood screenwriting. He wrote the screenplay for The Canyons, a film starring Lindsay Lohan.
Throughout his life, Ellis has been open about his struggles with sexuality and identity. He has identified as gay, bisexual, and heterosexual at different points in his life. In Lunar Park, Ellis dedicated the novel to his partner, Michael Wade Kaplan.
Ellis's work has often sparked controversy for its graphic content and unflinching portrayal of violence. Some critics have accused his writing of being sensationalistic and exploitative. However, Ellis has defended his work as a reflection of the dark side of American society.
Despite the controversies surrounding his work, Ellis remains a prominent figure in contemporary literature. His novels continue to be studied and analyzed for their provocative themes and sharp social commentary. Ellis's impact on the literary world is undeniable, and his legacy as a writer of transgressive fiction is secure.