MICHAEL CRICHTON - MICHAEL CRICHTON DIES AGED 66

MICHAEL CRICHTON DIES AGED 66

The international best-selling author Michael Crichton has unexpectedly died at the age of 66.

The ER creator wrote a number of hugely popular novels, some of which were turned into blockbuster movies such as Jurassic Park and Sphere.

Entertainment Tonight quote his family as saying: "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.

"He did this with a wry sense of humour that those who were privileged to know him personally will never forget."

Over 150 million copies of Crichton's books are reported to have been sold worldwide.