It is with tremendous sadness that we announce Darwyn is now receiving palliative care following a bout with aggressive cancer. His brother Dennis and I, along with our families appreciate the outpouring of support we have received. We ask for privacy as we go through this very difficult time. Urgent inquiries please contact David Hyde david.hyde@superfanpromotions.com
Marsha
85 comments:
Sending all my love to you both. I miss you dearly.
Is there anything concrete that fans and friends can do to support Darwyn and his family? If so, I'd be eager to contribute AND spread the word.
This is horrible, horrible news. I was fortunate enough to meet Darwyn at the Baltimore Comic Con where I serve as one of the primary photographers. I will hold out hope for future good news and send heartfelt positive thoughts and wishes to you and Darwyn, Marsha. I'm so sorry that you are dealing with this. I've lost a father and sister to cancer and know how difficult the battle can be.
I don't pray. But I will keep Darwyn in my thoughts. I hope that things will take a turn for the better.
All my thoughts and prayers to Darwyn, his family and friends. My 13-year old is making his way through my collection of classic graphic novels. Just a few days ago, he asked, "What else you got?" Oh, "New Frontier" of course, I replied. A day later, he was gushing ecstatically about the beautiful artwork. He coined it "Best.Green.Lantern.Story.EVAH!" Darwyn's profound gifts as a storyteller will stand the test of time and outlive all of us.
Please let us know if there is anything we fans can do to help you and your family.
I wish you the very best of luck with your treatment. As a 54 year old fan of your work, I'm also a twelve year cancer survivor myself.
I am very sorry that you are having to face this.
It is a bloody difficult time. I went through that twice in the last 6 months, first with my father and then with my mother in law: there is really not a lot that words can say. but I found important to express gratitude for whatever was passed on: Darwyn's art has been simply monumental, and will be an example. Thanks a lot, and have strenght in this difficult time
Fuck cancer, indeed.
Darwyn has always been a hero of mine, even after he spilled a beer on my portfolio many years ago. Me and a couple of fellow layout guys just saw the news on Facebook and are shocked.
I wish him well and my prayers go to him and his family.
I'll never forget meeting him at Wonder Con 2015, in my Fionna the Human cosplay, and hearing him say, without a moment of hesitation, "hi there, beautiful."
As a woman who had just begun transition, this meant so much to me.
Hearing it from someone who has been profoundly touched by Mr. Cooke's art AND writing, was nothing short of magical.
He is an amazing, thoughtful man, on top of being a legendary talent.
All my love and positivity to Mr. Cooke and his family during this time.
So sorry to hear this, I hope for the best, sending my love
Beat it. It's a tough slog and one I have fought myself and I know each battle is our own. But I hope a message from someone who faced it and came out smiling that I can give you some hope and determination to kick cancers arse :)
I'm so sorry to hear this.
Daniel Klos
I'm a big fan of Mr/ Cooke work. I wish you all the best. His work has a very special place in my heart. My prayers are with you guys.
Such terrible news. I've had the opportunity to meet Darwyn on numerous occassions and each and every piece I have of his in my collection is a treasure. One of the nicest fellows I had a chance to visit with, every time. Sincere and genuine.
All I can say is my thoughts go our to you Darwyn and Marsha, along with my prayers for a positive outcome with many more years of a world with Darwyn Cooke in it!
Get well soon !
I think I speak for all Darwyn's fans when I say that we are with you, offering our thoughts and prayers and love from a distance.
Love and respect forever.
Sending love and heartfelt thoughts <3
Damn, best wishes and I hope the treatment goes well.
Darwyn,
Hoping the best for you.
-Troy
I agree, say the word, and I'll do all I can to help.
He is a great artist and influence to me as an illustrator . All positive thoughts and good vibes to you , sir. A fan.
So sorry learn this news. Darwyn is such a talented and super nice guy. So sad.
So sorry...
My best feelings and a BIG HUG
Javier
Hang in there, pal. You can beat this. We're all pulling for you.
Praying for you. <3
I haven’t met you yet Darwyn. When I do, I’m sure I will say something truly generic, but meaningful like “I really like your work.” Yeah that sounds about right.
Your work is inspiring, captivating, and exciting (oops. generic again.) Okay, enough generic praise, how about a what-you-mean-to-me moment:
I still remember the feeling I had the first time I saw your work. I was 20-something-years-old browsing the internet and the site I was visiting was running a piece about The New Frontier. The series had wrapped by this time and, since I hadn’t purchased a comic book for over 10 years, I knew nothing about the series.
I felt like it was June 1938 and I walked into my drug store to see the new comics and my life was forever changed. Only in this case, I was on a computer and viewing a screen filled with pixels that formed one of the most memorable and exciting images I had ever seen. Ever! (that “Ever!” makes this much less of a generic compliment)
Everybody was there—Superman, Green Lantern, Wonder Woman, Green Arrow, The Flash, and more. They were all standing there posing in this patriotic and moving stance. Everything was so smooth and strong and there was this purity and innocence to the characters . . . It was incredible. It still is!
Only one other time in my life had I seen a comic that filled me with such joy based on the art alone. The other time was for Todd McFarlane’s Spider-man #1 in 1990. I was 10-years-old then.
Not being 10 anymore, I was able to jump immediately on Ebay and buy two sets of the original run of The New Frontier, as well as a set of a set of the TPB.
The only thing more captivating. No. Not more captivating. Just as captivating. Yeah. Just as captivating was the story. The story was incredible and made me yearn for the Golden Age of comics.
After reading The New Frontier I decided I would go and read some Golden Age Superman and Batman. I never cared for it before because it was so campy, but I always appreciated its place in comic history. Yeah, they were just as campy and I couldn’t get through more than a few of the books.
I was craving the narrative that you created in The New Frontier. I wanted an adult comic that was both idealistic and gritty. I wanted the narrative to include social norms and their influence on the characters, not just the heroes versus villains. I wanted a monthly New Frontier. Sadly that never came to be, but I did get to enjoy the movie. While it didn’t “POP!” like your comics, it was still enjoyable.
I have two small children now—much too young to read comics (they’d just make the pages dirty). I know that when their interests bring them to comics, their introduction to these iconic DC characters will be through your eyes and the frames that you drew them within.
You’re probably wondering, “Who is this guy? Why the hell is he writing me?” Well, two reasons. First, right now you need strength to get well. I hope that by writing you this letter, you feel the enthusiasm and youth that filled me while writing it and reflecting on your impact on my nerdy existence. I hope those feelings fill you up as well and expedite your recovery.
Second, life happens at an extraordinary rate. We don’t realize it until something causes us pause. And when that happens the whole world keeps spinning around us because time stops for no person. It continues marching regardless. In this moment of pause I offer you a thanks for your work. For your time and commitment and especially all of your sacrifices.
I present this letter as a point of focus. Focus your energies on the joy you have brought to others and that shall provide you the strength to rise up like a great phoenix and give that cancer the middle finger. That’s my hope anyway.
I can’t wait to finally meet you.
I haven’t met you yet Darwyn. When I do, I’m sure I will say something truly generic, but meaningful like “I really like your work.” Yeah that sounds about right.
Your work is inspiring, captivating, and exciting (oops. generic again.) Okay, enough generic praise, how about a what-you-mean-to-me moment:
I still remember the feeling I had the first time I saw your work. I was 20-something-years-old browsing the internet and the site I was visiting was running a piece about The New Frontier. The series had wrapped by this time and, since I hadn’t purchased a comic book for over 10 years, I knew nothing about the series.
I felt like it was June 1938 and I walked into my drug store to see the new comics and my life was forever changed. Only in this case, I was on a computer and viewing a screen filled with pixels that formed one of the most memorable and exciting images I had ever seen. Ever! (that “Ever!” makes this much less of a generic compliment)
Everybody was there—Superman, Green Lantern, Wonder Woman, Green Arrow, The Flash, and more. They were all standing there posing in this patriotic and moving stance. Everything was so smooth and strong and there was this purity and innocence to the characters . . . It was incredible. It still is!
Only one other time in my life had I seen a comic that filled me with such joy based on the art alone. The other time was for Todd McFarlane’s Spider-man #1 in 1990. I was 10-years-old then.
Not being 10 anymore, I was able to jump immediately on Ebay and buy two sets of the original run of The New Frontier, as well as a set of a set of the TPB.
The only thing more captivating. No. Not more captivating. Just as captivating. Yeah. Just as captivating was the story. The story was incredible and made me yearn for the Golden Age of comics.
After reading The New Frontier I decided I would go and read some Golden Age Superman and Batman. I never cared for it before because it was so campy, but I always appreciated its place in comic history. Yeah, they were just as campy and I couldn’t get through more than a few of the books.
I was craving the narrative that you created in The New Frontier. I wanted an adult comic that was both idealistic and gritty. I wanted the narrative to include social norms and their influence on the characters, not just the heroes versus villains. I wanted a monthly New Frontier. Sadly that never came to be, but I did get to enjoy the movie. While it didn’t “POP!” like your comics, it was still enjoyable.
I have two small children now—much too young to read comics (they’d just make the pages dirty). I know that when their interests bring them to comics, their introduction to these iconic DC characters will be through your eyes and the frames that you drew them within.
You’re probably wondering, “Who is this guy? Why the hell is he writing me?” Well, two reasons. First, right now you need strength to get well. I hope that by writing you this letter, you feel the enthusiasm and youth that filled me while writing it and reflecting on your impact on my nerdy existence. I hope those feelings fill you up as well and expedite your recovery.
Second, life happens at an extraordinary rate. We don’t realize it until something causes us pause. And when that happens the whole world keeps spinning around us because time stops for no person. It continues marching regardless. In this moment of pause I offer you a thanks for your work. For your time and commitment and especially all of your sacrifices.
I present this letter as a point of focus. Focus your energies on the joy you have brought to others and that shall provide you the strength to rise up like a great phoenix and give that cancer the middle finger. That’s my hope anyway.
I can’t wait to finally meet you.
Such an inspiration and talented soul. You have been my hero. Following your dreams and being so talented at it is an amazing thing these days. Blessings and thoughts are with you! Big Hugs!
Tania
Our love, thoughts and prayers are with you all. DAMN! ❤️
Marsha, best wishes to you and Darwyn. I am praying for his recovery. He is such an amazing artist and a nice guy. Please let him know that so many people on Facebook are wishing him well.
DAMN! Our love, thoughts and prayers are with you all.... ❤️
As an avid comic reader, this news comes with the upmost sadness. Sending my thoughts and prayers to Darwyn, Marsha and the rest of the family.
Fuck Cancer! We are behind you every step of the way, Darwyn. I first discovered your work through Catwoman #1 and have followed you ever since. Know that you have thousands of fans pulling for you and your family.
I'm deeply sorry to hear this.
My heart goes out to you guys.
I can only hope it's something that can be cured.
Darwyn's work has provided me with immense comfort in hard times, and I can only hope now that these messages can afford the Cooke's some, albeit brief, warmth in cold times.
Darwyn, thank you for New Frontier, thank you for the Parker books, thank you so much for all those glorious innovative pages you've made for us.
I wish you and yours all the best. God bless.
Sorry to hear this. I've enjoyed your work through the years, and will keep you in my prayers.
(I have no idea if anything I'm about to type is actually true, but I believe it certainly won't hurt. Feel free to delete this if it is out of line.)
For those asking what they can do to help, the quickest and easiest way to show your support is with your wallets. Darwyn is going to have a lot of unexpected expenses.
1. Go over to the Comixology Half-Price Darwyn Cooke Sale Comixology Half-Price Darwyn Cooke Sale going on RIGHT NOW and stock up on digital copies of Darwyn's work.
2. If you have a deeper wallet, now would be a great time for you to pull the trigger on purchasing that piece of Darwyn Cooke original art that you've been eyeing from his art dealer, Albert Moy. (And maybe put a not in with your purchase explaining why you are buying it. Albert is a really nice guy and may just decide to forgo a portion of his regular commission.)
If anyone else is aware of ways that you can (indirectly) put money in Darwyn's hands please share.
From a fellow Canadian, and a huge fan of Darwyn's work, I'm sending as many positive thoughts as I can.
From the main title sequence of Batman Beyond, to the masterpiece work of The New Frontier, I've always found Darwyn's work to be personally inspiring. His passion for the characters always shines through his art. The best compliment that I can think of is that Darwyn's work has always made me want to strive to be better with my own art.
All of the best wishes to Darwyn and his family in this difficult time.
May God Bless you Darwyn, and your family.
Good vibes your way. Get better, you've got more art to make!
This is unfortunate news. The wealth of knowledge your hard work has inspired in me and others is beyond measure. My thoughts are with you and your family.
God bless, Darwyn. Please accept the wishes and prayers of a longtime admirer for speedy and complete healing. -- Nathan Rudin, MD
The first time I met Darwyn was at MegaCon in Orlando, Florida back in 2010. He signed my 2 volume edition of The New Frontier and its DVD adaption. I was the next guy in line when someone walks up to him and says, "Jimmy Palmiotti told me to give you this." It was a set of fingerless gloves made to resemble men's tighty whitey's called "Handerpants". Jimmy was at the other end of the table and walked up, reimbursing the guy.
Darwyn,
I'm sorry to hear you are going through such a difficult time. My thoughts are with you for a speedy recovery and back to full health. Sending light your way my friend.
I remember picking up Batman Ego for the first time and thinking, who the fuck did this? I just wanted to say that besides being a fan of your fantastic work, you are one of the nicest guys I've ever met in comics.
A year back I came up to you to ask you your advice on how to balance life with being an illustrator. You not only took the time to speak with me, but you gave me suggestions I will never forget. Every time I've interacted or seen others interact with you, you make the other person feel like they are the only one in the room and place great importance on hearing what they have to say. That is gold, and I wanted you to know how much that means. Being a great artist is one thing, but you're a damn good soul as well:) Look forward to seeing you soon at future cons and thank you for all of the great advice buddy.
Best to you and your family!
Jeremy de la Garza
You make comics fun.
Prayers and good thoughts sent to you and yours.
You are one fearsome powerful talent, Darwyn. Everyone is rooting for you. Go kick its ass.
Love to you and your family through this terrible time, my friend. - Darick Robertson
So sorry Darwyn & Marsha. Sending you good vibes. :'(
Sorry to hear this. Hoping for a full recovery and that it's a beatable kind. If lost my dad to cancer,nobody should have to go through this.
Lots of love from Poland, both for you Darwyn and for your family. Your works brought lots of joy to my life. Fingers crossed, man. Get well!
Marsha, as you know I've always been very fond of you and Darwyn and I'm so sorry to hear this news. my heart is with you both and if there's anything I can do please let me know
much love,
MO
xo
Full support and love from Spain. We are proud of being your fans. Your work is an inspiration for all of us. Our best wishes, master.
As an old-timer, there aren't many modern comic artists I admire. Your art strikes that perfect balance between realism and animation, a trait only achieved by master cartoonists like Eisner, Sprang, Wood, Beck, Cole, a few others, and yourself. You're part of that group. Good job.
Bob Rivard
Darwyn,
The few times we've met (mostly at SDCC after hours), you've always been all class and even in this tough stretch, I have no doubts, you are the same. Whether it was New Frontier, Parker, Jonah Hex, The Spirit, or Twilight Children, I've been transported to fantasy worlds, different decades and places my imagination has never before been tapped. Every dollar spent on your work I've been rewarded hundreds of times over and I wanted to say again, thanks!
Know that beyond your talent as a storyteller, you're an even greater person, a most gracious man and inspiration to all. As a fighter, I know you'll be punching cancer with all of your might and you have so many in your corner. Sending positive, healing vibes and thoughts to you, Marsha and your circle of close support. With love, comfort and strength!
Ernie Estrella
He wasn't always the easiest man to get along with but he was worth it, because of his intelligence, integrity and massive skills. The little I got to work with him was definitely an honor, as I'm as big a fan of his work as anyone else. You made a Goddamn Big Mark on this world, my friend, and what more can we possibly hope for. With much love and admiration, Richard Bruning
My thoughts and prayers for you and your family during such a difficult time.
Dear Darwyn Cooke,
Thanks for all you did on Comics and animation. I am Superman collector/fan/reader from Brazil, who had survived a Hodgkin's Lymphoma for the last 8 years. Your work helped me to go through the sickness and the gorgeous art showed who life was good and bearable even on the bad days.
Yours faithfully,
Fabio.
Hey Darwyn,
No words can express how saddened I was to hear the news. I know it has been so long since we last spoke but you have always held a special place in my heart. I have followed your enormous success with great pride. My thoughts are with you!
Anna Caravaggio
Man oh man. I wish the very best to you and your family, sir, and may whatever happens, happen as well as it can.
Marsha... "Wolfie" here... Dale and I are just gutted to hear this. We have no words right now, other that we love you both and are with you in every way but physical. More later when we can find words. Until then, just love. xoxoxo
Dale and Wolfie
What terrible, sad news. When I won my Shuster award, Darwin was there to plant a big, wet kiss on my cheek. The award meant a lot to me so the memory is forever etched in my mind. Such a sweet guy, such an immense talent so generous, so dedicated ....... you could go on and on and not run out ...... you'll be in my thoughts a great deal, Darwin. Much love to you, Marsha and your family in this awful time - Dale
All my thoughts to Darwyn, his family and friends. I'm 41 and was never too deep into comics. This, until I met Darwyn's job. Mr Cooke, your work is pure art and a refreshing one. Thanks for your effort and I hope your strenghts keep with you. From Argentina, my daughter and I will be wishing the best for you. Be a good man, always
I met Darwyn and Marsha in 2008 at HeroesCon - they were and remain a lovely pair of people. Of Darwyn I remember thinking in that first meeting "This guy is the coolest motherfucker in comics" - I wasn't wrong. The three of us, along with half the damn convention, spent the next two nights drinking on the steps of the Westin. He told stories about past conventions and working in the industry, I told him about growing up in Eastern North Carolina. Something that will forever stand out in my mind was how much Darwyn and Marsha loved each other. It was palpable. The little glances back and forth, the way they held hands - it was deep and genuine and the standard by which I've held affection since.
As we drank and I revealed more about life in the south, Darwyn made a joke about me going up in moonshine country. Half laughing, I told him I'd get him some, wether or not he thought I was full of horseshit remains a mystery.
Some moths later, late August/early September if I recall, I had the good fortune to run into Darwyn and Marsha again at Baltimore Comic Con. It was a busy show. I walked by three times the first day only to see a line of folks that was far too long. Two hours passed and it was down to two people. As I walked up, Marsha was taping a sign on a young lady's backpack that read "end of the line". I was a bit disappointed. As I began to walk away I felt a tap on my shoulder, I turned and it was Marsha - she had the "end of the line" sign in her hand. "Put this on your back. I'm only doing this because it's you." she said with a smile. Frankly, I was surprised she remembered me.
My turn came quickly and I was greeted warmly by both Marsha and Darwyn. Unfortunately he was sick, "it's just a cold" he said brushing it off (I would have been bed-ridden for a week if I had been as sick Darwyn), but in great spirits having just won a (well-deserved) Harvey award. We talked only for a few moments, I told him I'd keep it brief as it was a busy show and he really needed a break. As he and Marsha gathered their things, I told him I had a gift for the two of them "Have it with lunch" I told them. I reached into my bag and pulled out a small mason jar of moonshine. I'll never forget the look on his face and the words that followed "You crazy Southern bastard!"
I'm not sure if he drank it for lunch, but I know he slept well that night.
Marsha, Darwyn, you're always in my thoughts but more so now.
Mr Cooke is one of my comic heroes and the New Frontier is one of my all time favorite comic story and is one of the reasons why I love comics so. I was lucky enough to meet Darwyn last year at Baltimore. The top item in my bucket list was to get a sketch from Mr Cooke into my sketchbook, but by the time I got in line, Darwyn's list was already full. I was devastated, and I think Darwyn noticed this. He offered to draw me a sketch once he is less busy on Sunday. And while I wasn't able to get the sketch as I was scheduled to fly out Saturday, I will be forever remember this kind gesture by Darwyn and how lucky I was to meet this hero of mine. Thank you so much Darwyn for making this kid and countless others love comics. Love and prayers to the Cooke family.
Dear Darwyn and Marsha,
I am so, so sorry to hear this awful news. Truly, I am shattered. I hope you find comfort during this hard time that so many of us have faced. Marsha, I know Darwyn knows how much we all love him, but please don't let that stop you from telling him again for us. And if there's anything we can do to help him, you, or the family, for goodness sake don't hesitate to put the word out.
Giant hugs and all my love,
Ian Hughes
Vancouver, BC
I love you Darwyn. :)
Sending love and supprt to you both, and your family...Renee Witterstartter and Michael Golden.
Darwyn changed my entire life about 6 years ago. He gave me an honest critique (unsolicited but sorely, sorely needed) that has allowed me to correct my course and ultimately support my family with my artwork. He took the time to sincerely and profoundly help a stranger just because he's a good person. I can not express how sorry I am that such a great man has to deal with this battle. But, if anyone can do this it's him. I'll be praying for your family. God bless you all.
My thoughts to Darwyn, Marsha, his family and his friends.
I have nothing but respect for you and all you've done, thoughts and support are with you and your family.
I have nothing but respect for you and all you've done, thoughts and support are with you and your family.
I'm a french cartoonist, and Darwyn Cooke is a major influence for me, or should I say one of my heroes. I check his work nearly each days, and the pleasure is still intact, I feel inspired each times.
Very powerful art, direct, dynamic, and those shadows ... Incredible !
I'm so sorry to hear the news, it's heartbreaking...
Darwyn, I sincerely wish you the best and send you all my love.
Drangal.
Thoughts & Prayers for you and your family. Your work has meant so much to me over the years. I am heartbroken over the news of your illness. Mr. Cooke you are an inspiration as an artist and I will carry and share the stories & tales you crafted with me for the rest of my life. Nothing but my love and respect for you and yours.
God bless.
I'm hoping the latest news isn't true and that you're still here to read this outpouring of admiration. I met you in 2007 or 2008 at NYCC and you drew a Superman commission for me - something I'll always treasure. You're the best of your generation - New Frontier and Parker are monumental works. Thank you for everything.
Wow. Tragic news. I met Darwyn at MegaCon one year and he signed some books. Next day I went to have him sign some more and he wasn't able to because his wife Marsha was robbed walking to the hotel leaving the Orange County Convention Center. He was upset but still thanked us for coming out and supporting his work. That's the kind of guy Darwyn was!
Lord, hear my prayer,
listen to my cry for mercy;
in your faithfulness and righteousness
come to my relief.
Do not bring your servant into judgment,
for no one living is righteous before you.
The enemy pursues me,
he crushes me to the ground;
he makes me dwell in the darkness
like those long dead.
So my spirit grows faint within me;
my heart within me is dismayed.
I remember the days of long ago;
I meditate on all your works
and consider what your hands have done.
I spread out my hands to you;
I thirst for you like a parched land.
Answer me quickly, Lord;
my spirit fails.
Do not hide your face from me
or I will be like those who go down to the pit.
Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love,
for I have put my trust in you.
Show me the way I should go,
for to you I entrust my life.
Rescue me from my enemies, Lord,
for I hide myself in you.
Teach me to do your will,
for you are my God;
may your good Spirit
lead me on level ground.
For your name’s sake, Lord, preserve my life;
in your righteousness, bring me out of trouble.
In your unfailing love, silence my enemies;
destroy all my foes,
for I am your servant.
Amen
His colleague Ed Brubaker suggests buying Darwyn's books -- the more expensive, the better.
https://twitter.com/brubaker/status/731264436132945920
I am devastated to hear of Darwyn's passing. His work brought me a heckuva lot of joy, and I feel honored that I was able to meet him a few times and to be the caretaker of some of his original art. My condolences to Marsha and the rest of his family.
Mr. Cooke's work always made me really happy. And it, perhaps more than any other artist's, always conveys a sense that the world really is a good place, and something to be hopeful about.
I loved your artwork sir, I wish you all the best.
I loved your artwork sir, I wish you all the best
So sorry to hear of Darwyn's passing, Marsha! All my thoughts are with you on this sad day. I met you and Darwyn in NYC almost 10 years ago and we had a great chat after I told you I was from St. John's. Darwyn did me a cool little sketch of Popeye as he said I reminded him of Popeye. I also lost my wife to cancer, so I know the road you have before you and send all my love and hope that your memories of him sustain you through these dark times. In the end you will, like me with my beloved wife, always carry a bit of him in your heart.
He was such a great man and all of us in the comic book world and beyond, shed many a tear for him!
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