The comic book world lost an absolute icon on Friday. Legendary artist and writer George Pérez passed away at the age of 67 due to complications from pancreatic cancer. In a career that lasted four decades, George left a lasting legacy at both Marvel and DC Comics. He is well-known for his work on the Avengers, the New Teen Titans, and DC’s Crisis on Infinite Earths. Additionally, he is credited with playing a key role in the reboot of Wonder Woman in the late 1980s. To honor the legacy of George Pérez, let us take a look at some of his best work.
The Avengers
George Pérez ‘s first major rise to prominence began in the 1970s with issue #141 of the Avengers. George himself observed that many artists avoided drawing larger teams like the Avengers due to the vast roster of characters. However, he took on the task with a great deal of enthusiasm. He prided himself on working intricately on each character so that they had their own distinct appearance, even when unmasked. George later worked with writer Jim Shooter on the Avengers story “The Korvac Saga.”
Along with writer David Michelinie, George is also credited with creating the Avengers villain, Taskmaster in Avengers #196.
The New Teen Titans
Following his work on the Avengers, George started working for DC Comics. There, he was given the duties of drawing the New Teen Titans. He joined writer Marv Wolfman, who he worked with previously on the Fantastic Four Annual. The two of them presided over what was considered to be the most popular version of the team.
During this time, he is credited with the co-creation of the character Deathstroke.
Crisis on Infinite Earths & Wonder Woman
In 1985, George embarked upon what is widely considered to be some of the best work of his career when he took on art duties for DC’s Crisis on Infinite Earths. The work was challenging, but George’s best work always came from a challenge. During this period, George displayed his ability to create beautiful splash pages featuring multiple characters. This comic book would place George in the upper pantheon of artists due to how detailed his artwork was.
In 1987, George helped reboot Wonder Woman, leaning heavily into Greek mythology for Diana’s backstory. This version of the character would later serve as inspiration for Patty Jenkins when she directed the 2017 movie.
The Infinity Gauntlet & Return to the Avengers
In 1991, George took part in another blockbuster story that would later serve as inspiration for a film when he began drawing for Marvel’s huge crossover event, the Infinity Gauntlet. Once again, George displayed his talent for creating splash pages that feature numerous characters.
His career came full circle when he returned to the Avengers in 1998. He and legendary writer Kurt Busiek joined forces for its third volume. George worked on the Avengers for three years. The duo also worked on the JLA/Avengers crossover event, which came out many years later.
A Lasting Legacy
George went on to do great work for other publications such as Gorilla Comics and CrossGen, before once again rejoining DC Comics in 2006. He also wrote and drew the series Sirens for Boom! Studios in 2014. His career spanned for more than four decades. Outside of his amazing work, George will always be remembered for his kindness and enthusiasm. He is survived by his wife of over 40 years, Carol Flynn, his brother David, and his parents Jorge and Luz.
