Douglas Adams (1952–2001) was an English author, scriptwriter, and humorist best known for creating The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy. He was born in Cambridge and studied English at the University of Cambridge, where he began developing his distinctive comedic voice.

Adams first created The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy as a radio comedy series for the BBC in 1978, which later expanded into a bestselling book series. The work became a cult phenomenon, blending science fiction with absurdist humor and philosophical satire. He also wrote Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency and The Long Dark Tea-Time of the Soul.

His writing is known for its wit, imaginative concepts, and playful approach to science and logic. Adams is widely regarded as one of the most influential comic science fiction writers of the 20th century, with a lasting impact on literature, radio, and popular culture.