Comics / Comics News

DC Comics' unnerving reaction to Joe Kubert's passing

By Dan Horn
August 13, 2012 - 13:19

As the comics industry mourned the passing of visionary creator Joe Kubert yesterday, I found it strange that DC's twitter feed and blog seemed to remain obstinately ignorant of the news that one of their legendary artists had passed away. Then, today they released an awfully cursory and impersonal statement about Joe's death that reads more like a Before Watchmen ad. Here's DC's full statement (note: no alterations have been made to this statement except for italicization):

"We are saddened to learn of the death of our colleague and friend Joe Kubert. An absolute legend in the industry, his legacy will not only live on with his sons, but with the many artists who have passed through the storied halls of his celebrated school. His latest work on BEFORE WATCHMEN: NITE OWL was among his best, and we are so honored to have worked side-by-side with such an unforgettable force in both comics and in life." - DC Entertainment Executive Team

I was very blessed to have been able to meet Joe Kubert when I was a young boy living in Philadelphia. He was truly a wonderful man, and his artistic virtuosity was, is, and always will be an inspiration to us all. He was more than an artist, however. He was also a father, a mentor, and a pioneer of the medium. Joe had worked for DC for nearly seventy years, his iconic work for the company beginning in 1943. His passing should not be remembered as an ad opportunity for the vile, inhuman scumbags over at DC Comics.

This moment has really served to show us all what these legendary creators mean to their corporate overlords, the hidden sentiments behind publishers' treatment of their creators in regards to rights and royalties, and I sincerely hope that this instance catalyzes a vehement movement in support of creators.

UPDATE:

Since this article was posted, DC has retracted their initial statement and has issued a modified one in its stead.

Last Updated: August 31, 2023 - 08:12