John W. Krafft, a notable figure in the world of journalism and filmmaking, was born in Indianapolis, Indiana, to Ernest L. and Mary E. Krafft. He graduated from Indianapolis' Manual Training High School in 1907, where he showcased his creative skills by writing and producing the senior play for the school.
Following his graduation, Krafft began his career as an editorial writer and stage and movie reviewer for the Indianapolis News. His exceptional writing abilities did not go unnoticed, and he soon received a telegram from Universal Pictures inviting him to join their writing staff. For a year, he worked as a title and advertising writer for the studio, honing his skills in crafting compelling narratives.
Krafft's impressive work caught the attention of Fox, who hired him to do similar work for five years. During this period, he contributed to various magazines, including Puck, Life, Film Fun, and Judge. His remarkable ability to refine and polish unfinished or problematic scripts earned him the reputation of a "script doctor."
In 1928, Krafft signed a contract with producer/director Cecil B. DeMille, with whom he worked for four years. He then joined Pathe Studios before becoming a freelancer, working for prominent studios such as Paramount, First National, Universal, and Associated Exhibitors.
Krafft's personal life was marked by a loving marriage to Emma Noble of Pendleton, Indiana. Together, they had two sons and a daughter.
