George Clayton Johnson dead: Author of Logan's Run dies aged 86

Johnson passed away on Thursday in Los Angeles

The writer died aged 86 (Youtube/George Clayton Johnson)

George Clayton Johnson, the writer behind the novel Logan’s Run and the first episode of Star Trek, has died aged 86.

Johnson’s son, Paul B. Johnson confirmed his death from cancer on Thursday to the Associated Press news agency.

Johnson co-wrote the dystopian novel Logan’s Run with William F. Nolan in 1967. The novel was later produced into an Oscar-nominated film in 1976 and then a television show.

He also wrote the first episode of the Star Trek television series starring William Shatner which aired in 1966.

Johnson also penned the story on which the Ocean's 11 films were based. The first, released in 1960, starred Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr. and Dean Martin. The 2001 remake featured George Clooney, Matt Damon and Brad Pitt.

Johnson is survived by his son Paul, daughter Judy Olive and wife of over 60 years, Lola.

Additional reporting by Associated Press.