American crime writer, Elmore Leonard dies aged 87

The American author Elmore Leonard, who wrote the crime novels, Get Shorty and Out Of Sight, has died at the age of 87 according to a brief statement on his website. He had been recovering after a recent stroke.

Born in New Orleans, Elmore John Leonard Jr. began writing westerns in the 1950s, before becoming one of the most popular and critically acclaimed crime writers of his generation. He also wrote a number short stories - several also adapted for the screen - and screenplays for film and television.

Several of his crime novels were adapted for the big screen, including Get Shorty starring John Travolta, Out Of Sight starring George Clooney and Jennifer Lopez and Rum Punch, adapted as Jackie Brown by Quention Tarantino.

The statement released on Elmore Leonard's website reads simply - "Elmore passed away this morning at 7:15 AM at home surrounded by his loving family."

 

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