Noted comic book artist and writer Keith Giffen, renowned as the co-creator of Marvel’s Rocket Raccoon and DC’s Lobo, has sadly passed away at the age of 70.
The official Facebook account of Keith Giffen confirmed his passing with a touch of humor, stating, “I told them I was unwell… Anything to avoid attending New York Comic Con. Thanks. Keith Giffen 1952-2023. Bwah ha ha ha ha.”
Numerous professionals in the comic book industry have taken to social media to pay their respects to Giffen. Colleen Doran, a fellow writer and artist, expressed her deep sorrow, saying, “My very dear friend, one of the best friends I’ve ever had. Keith Giffen. I am heartbroken. I will cherish your memory forever. You were incredibly kind and wonderfully eccentric, funny and unique.”
Writer J.M. DeMatteis added his tribute, “Keith was one of the most brilliantly creative individuals I’ve ever known. A curmudgeon with a heart of gold. A generous collaborator. An old, dear friend. And, as my wife pointed out, ‘He was like a character from a Keith Giffen story.’ Farewell, Keith. You will be greatly missed.”
Keith Giffen’s influence on the comic book industry is undeniable. He was born in Queens, New York, on November 30, 1952, and entered the industry in the mid-1970s. Shortly after his debut, Giffen, in collaboration with writer Bill Mantlo, introduced Rocket Raccoon to Marvel Comics, with the character’s first appearance in Marvel Preview #7 in July 1976. Rocket later gained widespread recognition as a significant character in the Marvel Cinematic Universe through the Guardians of the Galaxy film franchise.
However, Rocket Raccoon wasn’t the sole iconic character that Giffen had a hand in creating. Alongside writer Roger Slifer, he also brought DC’s Lobo to life, making his first appearance in 1983’s Omega Men #3. Lobo has since become a beloved character, appearing in various animated DC films and television shows over the years. The Last Czarnian even made his live-action debut in the Syfy series Krypton in 2019.
Giffen’s contributions to DC extended beyond Lobo, as he was well-known for his work on the publisher’s Legion of Super-Heroes and Justice League titles. He also left his mark on various other titles, including Aquaman, Blue Beetle, Doom Patrol, The Flash, Suicide Squad, Superman, and more. In the Marvel universe, some of his notable works included Annihilation, The Defenders, Drax the Destroyer, and Thanos.
Keith Giffen’s creative influence extended beyond the “Big Two” comic book publishers. He also worked on books for Image Comics, Dark Horse Comics, and Valiant Comics, showcasing his versatility in the industry. Giffen even ventured into television, with writing credits for episodes of popular shows such as The Real Ghostbusters, Hi Hi Puffy AmiYumi, and Ed, Edd n Eddy.