Robert Crais Contemporary writer, author of novels Date of Birth: 20.06.1953 Country: USA

1. Early Life and Career
2. Transition to Novelist
3. Elvis Cole and Joe Pike
4. Hollywood Adaptations
5. Personal Life and Legacy

Early Life and Career

Robert Crais was born in 1954 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. In 1976, he moved to Hollywood and began his career as a television writer. He wrote scripts for acclaimed series such as "Hill Street Blues," "Cagney & Lacey," and "Miami Vice." For his work on "Hill Street Blues," Crais received an Emmy Award nomination.

Transition to Novelist

In the 1980s, Crais decided to leave television and pursue a career as a novelist. His early attempts were unsuccessful, but the death of his father in 1985 inspired him to create the character of Elvis Cole. The novel featuring this character, "The Monkey's Raincoat," won the 1988 Anthony Award for Best First Novel and the Mystery Readers International Macavity Award for Best Paperback.

Elvis Cole and Joe Pike

Elvis Cole, as depicted in Crais's novels, is a former Army Ranger with nerves of steel, a kind heart, and the charisma of his namesake, Elvis Presley. His colleague, Joe Pike, is a skilled detective known for his perpetually serious demeanor.

Hollywood Adaptations

In March 2005, the film "Hostage" was released, marking the first Hollywood adaptation of a Robert Crais novel. The film stars Bruce Willis, Kevin Pollak, and Ben Foster. Despite the film's success, Crais has steadfastly refused to sell the film rights to Elvis Cole and Joe Pike, wanting his readers to envision their beloved characters as they choose.

Personal Life and Legacy

Robert Crais resides in a home in the Santa Monica Mountains, California, with his family. He credits Raymond Chandler, Dashiell Hammett, Ernest Hemingway, Robert Parker, and John Steinbeck as his literary influences. Crais has established himself as a respected and successful author in the crime fiction genre, captivating readers with his compelling characters and complex plots.