George Perez: Artist, Writer, Storyteller

Comic book legend diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. 

On May 19th, 2019, comic artist and writer, announced he was retiring. He seemed to be enjoying his retirement, when on this past Tuesday, November 7th, he posted the following on Facebook:

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George has been drawing comics since 1974, but I think a lot of guys my age really noticed him when he and writer Marv Wolfman, were on the New Teen Titans books. He co-created Cyborg, Starfire, Raven, and designed the first costume for Dick Grayson when he stopped being Robin and started being Nightwing. His run on the Avengers is still considered to be one of the greatest runs of Avengers’ stories. He also re-defined Wonder Woman and made her more connected to Greek mythology. 

In terms of personality, I don’t think I ever heard one bad story about him. He really loved his fans, especially cosplayers. He would get photographs with them, and I think he may have enjoyed it more than the cosplayers. Of course, he is especially loved by his peers in the industry. From the people he worked with, to the ones who were inspired by him. 

I’ve told my own story before about my experience with George. The way he shut down some internet trolls that were attacking my son. I will always be grateful to him for that. And the times I did meet him to get books signed, like I said before, just such a nice guy.

If you’re not a comic fan, then let me put it in perspective. George Perez is to comics as to what Wayne Gretzky is to hockey, or what Michael Jordan is to basketball. You get the idea. He is a living comic book legend. 

 This just really sucks on so many levels. Logically I know he’s not dead yet, and it does seem like I’m talking about him as if he is. There’s just an overwhelming sense of shock still.

I’m truly hoping that something might change, and he’ll get better. But life isn’t a comic book. All I can do is wish he goes peacefully, surrounded by the people George loves.