Robert Jordan

Robert Jordan (born James Oliver Rigney Jr., October 17, 1948 – September 16, 2007) was a legendary American fantasy author best known for creating The Wheel of Time, one of the most expansive and influential epic fantasy series ever written. A native of Charleston, South Carolina, Jordan served two tours in Vietnam as a helicopter gunner before earning a degree in physics from The Citadel.

He began writing under the pen name Robert Jordan in the 1980s, initially publishing historical fiction and Conan the Barbarian novels. His breakthrough came in 1990 with the release of The Eye of the World, the first volume of The Wheel of Time—a richly layered saga featuring intricate world-building, multiple point-of-view characters, and a mythic battle between Light and Shadow.

Spanning 14 volumes and a prequel (New Spring), the series is renowned for its complexity, magic system, and depth of lore. Though Jordan passed away in 2007 before completing the series, he left extensive notes. Acclaimed author Brandon Sanderson was chosen to finish the final volumes—The Gathering Storm, Towers of Midnight, and A Memory of Light—based on Jordan's outlines and drafts.

Jordan’s work has sold over 100 million copies worldwide and inspired countless authors and fantasy fans. In 2021, The Wheel of Time was adapted into a high-profile television series by Amazon Prime, introducing a new generation to the world of Rand al’Thor, Moiraine, and the One Power.

Jordan was known for his dedication to fans, often engaging with readers online and at conventions. He lived in Charleston with his wife and editor, Harriet McDougal, who was instrumental in shaping the success of the series.