Comics To Rot Your Brain: Bernie Wrightson R.I.P.

Bernie Wrightson 

R.I.P. 1948 - 2017

It’s with a heavy heart that we announce that Bernie Wrightson, the prolific horror comic book artist, died on Sunday after a long battle with brain cancer, his wife announced on his official website. He was 68.

Swamp Thing by Bernie Wrightson

Wrightson is best known for co-creating the DC Comics monster Swamp Thing with Len Wein in 1971. The character would go on to be the subject of Wes Craven’s 1982 cult horror classic.

The illustrator began his career as a freelance artist for the Baltimore Sun at the age of 18. He joined DC Comics two years later, going by “Berni” in his early professional work.

Creepshow / Father's Day by Bernie Wrightson

Wrightson’s many other projects include a 1983 version of Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein,” released by Marvel and comprised of 50 ink illustrations. He also illustrated the comic book adaptation of the Stephen King-written horror film “Creepshow.” He worked as a conceptual artist on movies such as “Galaxy Quest,” “Ghostbusters,” and “Land of the Dead.”

Frankenstein by Bernie Wrightson

Wrightson was known for his vivid attention to detail, and took on the works of such authors as Edgar Allen Poe and H.P. Lovecraft. He released his own interpretations of other famous superheros, including Spider-Man and Batman.

Mr. Wrightson was one of our favorite comic book illustrators here at Pittsburgh Underground and will be sorely missed. Our condolences to his wife and family. Godspeed Mr. Wrightson.