Stephen King was born on September 21, 1947, in Portland, Maine. His father left the family when Stephen was very young, so he was raised mostly by his mother, along with his older brother, David. They moved around a lot but eventually settled in Durham, Maine.

Stephen King married Tabitha Spruce in 1971. They met at the University of Maine. Tabitha is also a writer, and they’ve supported each other’s careers for decades. They have three children: Naomi, Joe, and Owen. Both Joe (Joe Hill) and Owen King followed in their father’s footsteps and became writers too.

Stephen King struggled with substance abuse (alcohol and drugs) in the 1980s but overcame his addiction with the help of his family. In 1999, he was hit by a van while walking near his home in Maine. He was badly injured but eventually recovered, although the accident still affects his health.

King and his wife live primarily in Maine, and they’re known for their generosity — donating to libraries, schools, and local causes.