111 Script Doctor (Michael Crichton)

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Who was Michael Crichton?

Michael Crichton: A Biography of the Master of Techno-Thrillers and Science Fiction

Michael Crichton (October 23, 1942 – November 4, 2008) was a bestselling American author, screenwriter, director, and producer renowned for blending cutting-edge science with suspenseful storytelling. He rose to international fame with groundbreaking novels like Jurassic Park, The Andromeda Strain, and Sphere, becoming one of the most influential writers in the science fiction and techno-thriller genres.

Born in Chicago and raised in Long Island, New York, Crichton attended Harvard College and Harvard Medical School. Though trained as a doctor, he chose a literary path, using his scientific background to craft thrilling and plausible narratives rooted in real-world research and emerging technologies.

Crichton’s breakout novel, The Andromeda Strain (1969), launched his career and was quickly adapted into a film. His 1990 novel Jurassic Park became a cultural phenomenon and was adapted into a blockbuster film directed by Steven Spielberg. Crichton also wrote and directed movies, including Westworld (1973), the first major film to feature computer-generated imagery (CGI).

In television, Crichton created the long-running medical drama ER, which earned critical acclaim and numerous awards, including a Primetime Emmy. His works often explored themes like bioethics, corporate greed, and the unforeseen consequences of scientific advancement.

Michael Crichton passed away in 2008 from cancer at the age of 66. His legacy endures through his novels, films, and lasting influence on science fiction. His ability to entertain while provoking thought continues to captivate readers and viewers around the world.