Michael Crichton has died at the age of 66 after battling cancer.
The author was best known for penning Jurassic Park and sequel The Lost World, which were both famously adapted for the big screen. He also created US medical drama ER and served as the show's executive producer.
He died unexpectedly in Los Angeles yesterday, having fought "a courageous and private battle against cancer".
"While the world knew him as a great storyteller that challenged our preconceived notions about the world around us, and entertained us all while doing so, his 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," read a statement posted on the writer's website.
"Michael's talent out-scaled even his own dinosaurs of Jurassic Park," said Steven Spielberg, who directed the movie version of the novel.
"He was the greatest at blending science with big theatrical concepts, which is what gave credibility to dinosaurs again walking the Earth."
Other Crichton books adapted for the big screen include Congo and Disclosure.
