Michael Crichton, the prolific best-selling author of Jurassic Park, The Lost World and Sphere and creator of TV's ER, has died at age 66.
The writer, who sold more than 150 million books and had many of his titles made into blockbuster movies, died on Tuesday in Los Angeles after waging a private battle with cancer, his family says.
"While the world knew him as a great storyteller who challenged our preconceived notions about the world around us – and entertained while doing so – his wife Sherri, daughter Taylor, family and friends knew Michael Crichton as a "devoted husband, loving father and generous friend who inspired each of us to strive to see the wonders of our world through new eyes," his family says in a statement. "He did this with a wry sense of humor that those who were privileged to know him personally will never forget."
The family adds: "Through his books, Michael Crichton served as an inspiration to students of all ages, challenged scientists in many fields, and illuminated the mysteries of the world in a way we could all understand. He will be profoundly missed by those whose lives he touched, but he leaves behind the greatest gifts of a thirst for knowledge, the desire to understand, and the wisdom to use our minds to better our world."
A private funeral is being planned.
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