Jim Cash

James Willis Cash (January 17, 1941 – March 25, 2000) was an American film writer, noted for writing such 1980s films such as "Top Gun" and "The Secret of My Success".
Early life.
Cash was born on January 17, 1941 in Boyne City, Michigan.
Education.
In 1970, Cash received a B.A. in English from Michigan State University (MSU). In 1972, Cash received an M.A. in Television and Radio from Michigan State University.
Career.
As a professor, Cash taught writing and film history at Michigan State University. Cash met a student named Jack Epps, Jr., who would later become his writing partner. Epps was from the Detroit area.
Cash and Epps began their writing relationship while at Michigan State University. In 1975, they wrote their first story together in the MSU Union Grill. Soon afterward Epps moved to Hollywood, California. Cash continued to live in East Lansing, Michigan, while Epps lived in Santa Monica, California. They collaborated via computer.
In 1986, Cash and Epps co-wrote "Top Gun".
Personal life.
Cash and his wife Cynthia Cash had four children. He died of intestinal disorders.