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Neal Adams, the legendary comic artist who helped influence some of DC’s greatest characters, has passed away. According to THR, the artist, who was 80 years old, passed due to complications from sepsis. As an influential member of the comics industry, Adams fought for creators’ rights in comics. He also interacted regularly with fans on social media and created many beloved comic book characters.
Who was Neal Adams?
Neal Adams was born in New York City on June 15, 1941. While he traveled a lot in his youth due to his father’s military career, most of his life would be spent in and around New York. He graduated from Manhattan’s School of Industrial Art high school in 1959. From there, he would begin his career in comics as an artist for Archie Comics under Joe Simon.
Beginning in 1967, Adams and Arnold Drake worked on his first major commercial success, Deadman. From there, Adams would finally get his chance to work with DC Comics. He helped reinvent Batman after the end of the 60’s TV series starring the caped crusader. He also contributed covers to Superman titles and drew an Elongated Man story for Detective Comics.
What Else Is The Legendary Comic Artist Known For?
One of Adams’ most notable contributions to the comic world is his Green Lantern/Green Arrow work. The comics have remained relevant years after their publication. It reinvigorated both characters and introduced them to a whole new generation of readers.
This series was so influential as it tackled topics that hadn’t been explored by DC Comics before. They were a deep dive into contemporary culture and examined issues like racism, poverty, and more. They featured Hal Jordan as a cosmic police officer and Oliver Queen as a protester. The series never really outlined who was right and who was wrong. Instead, it showed that the world was more grey than black-and-white.
Neal Adams is remembered by his wife Marilyn, five children, six grandchildren, and great-grandson Maximus.