The man who created The Joker and the Boy Wonder has passed away.
Jerry Robinson’s contribution to the world of comics isn’t easily measured. Those two characters are two of the most iconic in the world and continue to remain as popular today as they were when they were created. Seriously. Try to imagine the Batman franchise, or the DC Comics Universe as a whole, without The Joker and Dick Grayson. It would not be a pretty sight.
He was also instrumental in getting Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster credited at the beginning of every Superman comic, a champion of artist’s rights throughout his storied career.
Mr. Robinson was 89. According to published reports, he died on Wednesday at a hospice in Staten Island.
I saw him at Comic-Con last year (or the year before?), scooting around in a motorized wheelchair and he seemed alert and involved. It’s sad to see someone this important go, but at 89, perhaps it was his time.
DC Comics sent us reactions of his passing from important figures in their organization:
“Jerry Robinson illustrated some of the defining images of pop culture’s greatest icons. As an artist myself, it’s impossible not to feel humbled by his body of work. Everyone who loves comics owes Jerry a debt of gratitude for the rich legacy that he leaves behind.”—Jim Lee, DC Entertainment Co-Publisher and artist of BATMAN: HUSH
“Jerry Robinson was one of the greats. He continued to be a vibrant, creative force well into his nineties, with ideas and thoughts that continue to inspire. Jerry was a great advocate for creators. It was my pleasure to meet and work with him. He will be missed.”—Dan DiDio, Co-Publisher, DC Entertainment
“It’s impossible to work at DC Entertainment without feeling the impact of Jerry Robinson’s contributions to the industry. His influence continues to resonate today.”—Bob Harras, DC Entertainment Editor-in-Chief
“Jerry Robinson was an innovator, a pioneer in storytelling. His artwork was always astonishing, but his contributions to the Dark Knight mythology go far beyond art. The streets of Gotham City are a little lonelier today…Jerry will truly be missed.”—Mike Marts, BATMAN editor