Preacher co-creator Steve Dillon passed away in New York City. The prolific graphic novelist and artist, whose work on both Preacher and the Punisher were genre-changing, was just 53 years old. His brother confirmed his death in a tweet early Saturday morning.
https://twitter.com/glyn_dillon/status/789834909376479232
Long considered a comics prodigy, Dillon landed the job of a lifetime when he was 16, drawing lead story art for Marvel UK’s Hulk Weekly debut issue. It was his work on Preacher that defined his legacy and earned him an Eisner nomination. Dillon’s work revamping the Punisher with Welcome Back Frank set the course for an epic return whose impact is still felt to this day.
Fans and colleagues alike have taken to social media to mourn the loss of such an iconic artist.
#RiPSteveDillon One of my favorite artists. pic.twitter.com/eqnLSdGhey
— Jonathan Wyke (@JonathanWyke) October 22, 2016
Heartbroken to hear about Steve Dillon's passing. He was a sweetheart of a guy, his storytelling was right to the point. An incredible loss.
— Colonel Tony Moore (@tonymoore) October 22, 2016
Such awful, unexpected news about Steve Dillon, a unique talent. Take care of yourselves, comics people.
— Ron Marz (@ronmarz) October 22, 2016
https://twitter.com/pauljholden/status/789833062850916352
So sorry to hear of Steve Dillon's passing. He was a massive talent. pic.twitter.com/NcgqSDB0lD
— mckone (@Mike2112McKone) October 22, 2016
Steve Dillon was a master storyteller. PREACHER, PUNISHER, all of it done with so much exceptional skill + magic. We lost one of the greats.
— Mitch Gerads (@MitchGerads) October 22, 2016
https://twitter.com/BrianLynch/status/789840918169853953
Update 12:56pm Oct. 22: This article has been updated to reflect the fact that Dillon was 54 and not 53 when he passed away.