Peter Benchley: Author of Jaws Dies at 65

Peter Benchley was an American author and ocean conservationist. Born on May 8, 1940, in New York City, he was the grandson of humorist Robert Benchley.

His 1974 novel Jaws became a bestseller and the basis for Steven Spielberg's 1975 blockbuster, for which he co-wrote the screenplay. He also wrote The Deep and The Island.

Benchley later campaigned for shark conservation, saying that he regretted the way his story had demonized sharks. He died of pulmonary fibrosis at his home in Princeton, New Jersey, on February 11, 2006, at age 65.

Achievements: Author of Jaws (1974), shark conservation advocate.

Birth: May 8, 1940 - New York City.

Profession: Author.

Interesting Facts: He worked as a speechwriter for President Lyndon Johnson.