Top-selling author Michael Crichton has died of cancer in Los Angeles.
His long-time publicist, Joe Marich, told CTV.ca that Crichton was 66 at the time of his death.
"It's devastating," Marich said in a phone interview from New York. "He was a very good man."
Crichton, who originally trained as a medical doctor, sold millions of books during his career as an author.
Many were adapted into movies, including "Disclosure," "Sphere," "The 13th Warrior," "Twister" and the popular "Jurassic Park" franchise.
Filmmaker Stephen Spielberg released a statement saying Crichton's "talent out-scaled even his own dinosaurs of 'Jurassic Park.'"
"He was the greatest at blending science with big theatrical concepts, which is what gave credibility to dinosaurs walking the earth," Spielberg, who directed "Jurassic Park," said in the statement.
"Michael was a gentle soul who reserved his flamboyant side for his novels. There is no one in the wings that will ever take his place."
In addition to his writing career, the six-foot-nine Crichton also directed six films, including "Westworld" and "Coma," and was a co-creator (with Spielberg) of the TV series "E.R."
In the late 1980s he wrote a well-received autobiography, "Travels," that chronicled his gradual disillusionment with medical school at Harvard, and why he decided to move into the writing game. The book delivered extraordinary accounts of his travels and adventures -- which included paranormal and New Age experiences that challenged his thinking.
A statement released by Crichton's family to his website notes that the best-selling author "died unexpectedly" after a "courageous and private battle against cancer" on Nov. 4.
"While the world knew him as a great story teller 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 humor that those who were privileged to know him personally will never forget," the posting reads.
"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."
The posting does not specify what type of cancer Crichton was battling at the time of his death.
Marich said there will be no further statements from the family at this time.
Crichton had a new novel scheduled to come out next month, but his publisher HarperCollins decided to delay its release because of his illness.
With files from The Associated Press
