Michael Crichton (1942-2008) was an American writer, screenwriter, and director, considered one of the leading figures of the techno-thriller genre. A graduate of Harvard Medical School, he used his rigorous scientific training to create compelling narratives that explore the potential dangers of technological innovation and genetic manipulation. His career took off with the novel *The Andromeda Strain* (1969), but he achieved worldwide fame with bestsellers such as *Sphere*, *Congo*, and especially *Jurassic Park* (1990), which spawned an enormously successful film franchise. Crichton also had a significant impact in film and television: he wrote and directed the cult film *Westworld* (1973) and created the globally successful television series *ER*, based on his experiences as a medical student. His accolades include an Emmy Award for *ER* and an Edgar Award. The dinosaur *Crichtonsaurus* was named in his honor.