Oct 23, 1942 – Nov 4, 2008
Michael Crichton, born on Oct 23, 1942 in Chicago, IL, passed away on Nov 04, 2008 in Los Angeles, CA.
Obituary
Los Angeles, AP -- Michael Crichton, the million-selling author of such historic and prehistoric science thrillers as "Jurassic Park," ''Timeline" and "The Andromeda Strain," has died of cancer, his family said.
He died Tuesday in Los Angeles at age 66 after a long battle with the illness.
Chrichton was a brand-name author, known for his stories of disaster and systematic breakdown, such as the rampant microbe of "The Andromeda Strain" or dinosaurs running amok in "Jurassic Park," one of his many books that became major Hollywood movies.
"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," his family said in a statement.
The 6-foot-9-inch author was also a screenwriter and filmmaker, earning producing and writing credits for the film versions of many of his titles. He also created the TV hospital series "ER " in 1994.
In recent years, he was the rare writer to get on well with President Bush, perhaps because of his skepticism about global warming, which Crichton addressed in the 2004 novel, "State of Favor." Crichton's views were strongly condemned by environmentalists, who alleged that the author was hurting efforts to pass legislation to reduce emissions of carbon dioxide.
A new novel by Crichton had been tentatively scheduled to come next month, but publisher HarperCollins said the book was postponed indefinitely because of his illness.
"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 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 said.
Copyright © 2008 The Associated Press
Michael Crichton's work inspired me from childhood into adulthood. He is well missed in the world and in the sci-fi genre. Rest in peace, Mr. Crichton, and peace and love to your family.
Micah Williams
January 17, 2025 | North Little Rock, AR
The Andromeda Strain was one of the best books I have read
mpm
June 08, 2024 | Other
I am signing the guest book because Mr. Crichton was a real talent. He was an author I appreciated almost more than any other. He will be missed. (He was the best.)
November 11, 2017
Peace and comfort to your dear loved ones!
Nazarene Mckinney
April 24, 2017 | Macclenny, FL
Thank you for all of the beautiful literary works you have given to all of us. Every time I need a pick-me-up, or a break from reality, I dive into one of your books and I am taken back to the simpler days of my childhood. I will miss all of the publications you undoubtedly had planned for the future. Rest in peace Michael Crichton.
Garett
January 30, 2017 | Neenah, WI
Valenda Newell
September 08, 2016 | Indianapolis, IN
Thanks for the knowledge and the wonderful stories.
Your life made mine more fun.
Judy Treece
July 15, 2016 | Hamlet, NC
I am now reading Micro- and I weep that this is the last time I will read the elegant, yet both simple and sophisticated, prose that you will write. Thank you for sharing your deliciously provocative mind with a grateful public. Rest in peace, Michael Crichton.
January 15, 2015 | GA
Many are the things we could say about Mr. Crichton, his films are legendary. May your fond memories of him bring back good thoughts. Peace and love to your family and friends.
B Lucas
October 25, 2014 | Fort Wayne, IN