Hunter S. Thompson (1937-2005) is best regarded for his unique work as an author and journalist.  Credited as the creator of ‘Gonzo journalism,’ Thompson’s reaction to objective news-coverage is commonly identified as reporting where the reporter becomes involved in the story to such an extent that they themselves soon become a central figure within it.  Thompson often blurred the line between fact and fiction as well.

Most remembered for his novel, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, he wrote numerous others including The Rum Diary, Hell’s Angels, Fear and Loathing on the Campaign Trail ’72, and Kingdom of Fear.  Additionally, Thomspon wrote and published countless articles, many for Rolling Stone.

Thompson’s books have been adapted for film twice with a third project currently in the works.  1980’s “Where the Buffalo Roam” features Bill Murray as Thompson and Peter Boyle as Carl Lazlo, a character loosely based on Thompson’s associate, attorney Oscar Acosta.  The surreal adventures surrounding these two were visited once again in Terry Gilliam’s 1998 cult hit, “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas,” starring Johnny Depp as Raoul Duke (Thompson) and Benicio del Toro as Dr. Gonzo (Acosta).  The film spurred the reprint of the novel and introduced Thompson’s work to a new generation of readers.  Hollywood cinema aside, Thompson has been the focus in over half-a-dozen documentaries, inluding Alex Gibney’s 2008 feature, “Gonzo: The Life and Work of Dr. Hunter S. Thompson.”

Thompson held strong political beliefs, many of which influenced his writing.  He publically endorsed the complete legalization of mind-altering substances, though when it came to promoting their use, he famously stated, “I hate to advocate drugs, alcohol, violence or insanity to anyone, but they've always worked for me.”  He also held strong skepticism regarding gun control and government oversight.

Thompson died at his estate in Woody Creek, Colorado as a result of a long-planned gun-assisted suicide.  His requests to scatter his ashes by way of cannon atop a self-designed tower were honored.