Bestselling author and former politician Jeffrey Archer has died at the age of 86. He had been active in public life before turning to writing full time. Archer served as a Member of Parliament for five years during his political career.
He later served as deputy chairman of the Conservative Party rather than party chairman. Archer also became a life peer in 1992 and remained in the House of Lords until retiring in 2024.
Just before his death he was preparing to attend the Cheltenham Literature Festival on Saturday. The event was meant to feature a discussion of his final novel Adam & Eve. He had recently visited Wellington School where he had studied on a scholarship. During the visit he expressed joy about seeing young students and thought about their future.
Archer and his wife Mary had celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary earlier this year. HarperCollins shared news of the author's passing and said he died suddenly and peacefully at home between writing sessions. Broadcaster Gyles Brandreth said Archer had been in excellent spirits during a packed event in London the day before his death. Brandreth described him as funny and engaging and said he remained a great storyteller until the end.
Former Conservative chancellor Nadhim Zahawi also paid tribute to the author on X. He called Archer a dear friend and an extraordinary human being. Zahawi praised his storytelling ability as well as his wit and warmth and energy.
Archer’s career spanned both politics and literature. He was well known for novels including Kane and Abel and the Clifton Chronicles. His books sold more than 300 million copies during a writing career that lasted five decades.
His final novel Adam & Eve was scheduled for publication on October 6.
His passing marks the end of a long and influential career.