Chad Burdette
The comic industry suffered another loss this weekend when it was announced that Sam Kieth, creator of The Maxx and co-creator of The Sandman passed away at the age of 63, from the effects of Lewy Body Dementia, a combination of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Related: Italian Artist Jacopo Camagni Passes Away At The Age Of 48
Kieth will be remembered for his distinctive style and multiple contributions to the industry throughout the years. His first published work was Max the Hare, by Comico at the age of seventeen and breaking into the industry inking the Matt Wagner series Mage in 1984, which showcased his unique talent for detail and expression in his work at the age of 19. His work showed influences of creators such as Bernie Wrightson and Frank Frazetta, which he transformed in his superhero art.
In his career, he worked across the major publishers, contributing his style to characters such as Wolverine, The Hulk, and Batman.
His career took off working with Neil Gaiman to co-create The Sandman series for DC Comics, establishing the Gothic tones that became the hallmark of the series.
He also created his own characters, notably The Maxx (Image Comics) in 1993, exploring themes such as trauma, reality, and identity, through the main character, a homeless man who believes himself to be the protector of another dimension. The Maxx was later reimagined for the animated series, airing on MTV as part of the 1995 Oddities show. He also created Zero Girl and Four Women, part of DC Comics’ Wildstorm imprint.
The last major project completed was 2018’s Batman /The Maxx: Arkham Dreams.
Creators and fans alike took to social media to remember and honor Kieth upon the release of the news.
Comic Watch extends sympathies to Sam’s family and friends in this time of loss.
