Oscar-winning songwriter-director of ‘You Light Up My Life’ charged with rape in NY

‘You Light Up My Life’ writer accused of NY rape

NEW YORK — The songwriter and director behind “You Light Up My Life” has been indicted on charges of raping or sexually assaulting women who answered audition ads on Craigslist.

Joseph Brooks, who’s 71, will be arraigned later Tuesday.

Manhattan District Attorney Robert Morgenthau says nine of the 11 victims answered an ad seeking women to audition for acting roles.

Brooks won the Oscar for Best Original Song for the 1977 ballad “You Light Up My Life.”

He also wrote and directed the “You Light Up My Life” movie. It’s about a comedian who has a one-night stand with a director.

Brooks’ attorney, Jeff Hoffman, says “there will be lengthy arguments” during the arraignment.