British novelist Frederick Forsyth known for ‘The Day of The Jackal’ dies at 86

Bestselling British novelist Frederick Forsyth, known for thrillers such as ‘The Day of the Jackal’ and ‘The Dogs of War’, passed away on Monday at the age of 86.

Born on August 25, 1938, Forsyth led a life as colourful as his stories. He lied about his age to join the Royal Air Force in 1956, becoming its youngest pilot at the age of 19. After serving in the military, he transitioned to journalism, working as a war correspondent for various news agencies. His coverage ranged from the political tensions in Paris to the Nigerian civil war.

Forsyth’s first work of fiction, ‘The Day of the Jackal’, was inspired by his experiences as a journalist in Paris, including covering an attempted assassination of French President Charles de Gaulle. Released in mid-1971, the book became a runaway hit and has been translated into over 30 languages, including Hebrew, Chinese, and Thai.

His published works include 15 novels, two collections of short stories, and an autobiography that together have sold more than 75 million copies worldwide. He was honoured with several accolades, including a CBE in 1997 and the Crime Writers’ Association Diamond Dagger award.

Forsyth’s first three novels - ‘The Day of the Jackal’ (1971), ‘The Odessa File’ (1972), and ‘The Dogs of War’ (1974) - along with his fifth novel, ‘The Fourth Protocol’ (1984), were all adapted into successful films, largely retaining the original plots.

In his later years, Forsyth confirmed rumours that he had worked with MI6 during his time as a journalist.

According to reports, Forsyth passed away at home, surrounded by his family, following a brief illness. He is survived by two sons from his first marriage.