Jim Shooter, Former Marvel Editor-in-Chief, Dies at 73 | Legacy Remembered

New York, July 1, 2025 – Jim Shooter, the legendary comic book writer, editor, and publisher who played a pivotal role in shaping modern superhero storytelling, has died at the age of 73. The news was announced by fellow comic creator Mark Waid on Facebook, who noted that Shooter had been battling esophageal cancer “for some time.”

Shooter’s career began remarkably early. Born in Pittsburgh in 1951, he became obsessed with comics while hospitalized as a child. At just 13, he submitted scripts to DC Comics and was hired at age 14, making him one of the youngest professional comic writers in history. His early work included writing Superman and Supergirl, and developing iconic characters for the Legion of Super-Heroes. Alongside artist Curt Swan, he co-wrote the first legendary footrace between Superman and The Flash — a moment still celebrated by fans.

In 1969, Shooter left DC Comics after being offered a position at Marvel Comics. He declined a spot at NYU to fully commit to his career. His editorial vision and understanding of comic structure led to a rapid rise within Marvel. In 1978, he became Editor-in-Chief, succeeding Archie Goodwin and stepping in during a time of creative transition, as Stan Lee shifted focus to the entertainment side of the business.

During Shooter’s leadership, Marvel flourished both creatively and commercially. He was at the helm during groundbreaking runs such as:

• X-Men by Chris Claremont and John Byrne

• Daredevil by Frank Miller

• Thor by Walt Simonson

Shooter also co-wrote and spearheaded the Secret Wars event in 1984 — Marvel’s first company-wide crossover, which introduced the symbiote suit later known as Venom and helped set the blueprint for future multi-title story arcs. The accompanying toy line in partnership with Mattel turned Secret Wars into a pop culture milestone, blending comics with merchandising strategy.

Shooter’s tenure was also marked by innovation. He launched Marvel’s Epic Comics imprint, which allowed creators to retain ownership of their characters — a radical move at the time. He also championed Dazzler #1, the first major comic book sold exclusively through the direct market, helping shift the industry's distribution away from traditional newsstands.

However, his management style proved divisive. Shooter was often seen as rigid and authoritative, and he clashed with numerous artists and writers. His editorial decisions around LGBTQ+ representation in the early 1980s — including censoring the revelation that Northstar was gay and approving a storyline featuring two gay villains in The Rampaging Hulk — have been heavily criticized in retrospect.

Shooter was dismissed from Marvel in 1987, but he remained a driving force in comics. He co-founded Valiant Comics, bringing new life to characters like Bloodshot, Harbinger, and X-O Manowar. Valiant quickly became the third-largest comic publisher in the U.S. before he was ousted in 1992. He later founded Defiant Comics and Broadway Comics, both short-lived but creatively ambitious ventures.

In his later years, Shooter continued to engage with the comic community. He returned to write Legion of Super-Heroes for DC in 2007 and revisited Valiant characters in 2010. He also participated in conventions, interviews, and mentorship, offering insight into the golden and modern ages of comics.

Shooter's contributions to the medium were recognized with several awards, including:

• Eagle Award (1979)

• Inkpot Award (1980)

• Named Ambassador for the Inkwell Awards (2012–2025)

While his career was often marked by bold decisions and deep controversy, Jim Shooter remains a towering figure in comic book history. His editorial vision reshaped Marvel Comics during a crucial era, and his innovations continue to influence how comics are written, published, and marketed today.

He leaves behind a legacy of storytelling, innovation, and industry transformation — one that fans, creators, and critics alike will continue to debate and celebrate for years to come.