congo 2Crichton on the set of Congo. Michael Crichton, the hugely successful sci-fi author whose work included the best seller-turned-movie Jurassic Park, has died.

Crichton passed away unexpectedly after a private battle against cancer, according to a statement released by his family.

"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," reads the statement.

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

The novelist's extensive body of work included Congo, Sphere, and Disclosure, all of which were adapted for the big screen. He also directed eight times, including 70s thrillers Coma and Westworld, the latter serving as a basis for his hugely successful 1990 novel Jurassic Park. Three years later he co-wrote the movie script with director Steven Spielberg.

Crichton's medical background -  he graduated Harvard Medical School in 1964 and became a Medical Doctor in 1969 -  led to him create ER, the long-running hospital drama of which he wrote over 300 episodes.

He is survived by his daughter, Taylor Anne, and wife Sherri.

Sky Movies are showing a selection of Michael Crichton's movies to mark his passing. You can see what's on here.