# Joe Caldwell, 'Dark Shadows' Writer, Dies at 97

Joe Caldwell, the television writer best known for his work on the gothic soap opera "Dark Shadows," has died at age 97. He also wrote for series including "Peyton Place" and "The Waltons." Caldwell's contributions helped shape the distinctive tone of 1960s and '70s television drama.

**Importance:** 3/5

## Sources

### Entertainment
- [Variety](https://variety.com/2026/tv/news/joe-caldwell-dead-dark-shadows-1236815444/) — Sat, 18 Jul 2026 16:52:26 +0000