American comic book artist, writer, and television director John Cassidy worked for labels such as Marvel and DC, which left him little time to consider having a wife or children.
Earlier on September 3, 2024, John’s elder sister, Robin K Cassaday, uploaded on Facebook to let people know that the comic artist had been admitted to the ICU at a New York hospital for an undiagnosed condition.
Likewise, she assured her followers that she’d update them on John’s condition as soon as the doctor’s report came out. Later, the medical team moved the artist to the extensive unit at the Mount Sinai West Hospital.
After days at the facility, John’s condition was stable, as his organs and heart were functioning normally. However, his brain was the primary concern, requiring an MRI to get a clearer picture.
Soon, Robin delivered the heartbreaking news that John had passed away on September 10, 2024, at 6:51 pm Texas time. In the post, she mentioned, “Please keep me and my mom in your prayers.“
Such a message implied that John Cassidy never had a wife before his demise, as Robin would’ve mentioned her in the emotional post for the comic artist. Now, the industry mourns the untimely departure of the talent who contributed much to the comic world.
Following the disheartening news, John’s close friend Mark Weid shared his feelings through a Facebook post, writing, “John was one of the very best illustrators and storytellers to ever work in the comics medium. My friend will be talked about and remembered by an entire industry for ages. And rightfully so. Rest in peace, sir.“
John Cassidy was a self-taught comic artist who started as a construction worker!
The artist took inspiration from creators such as NC Wyeth, who helped him develop a strong base in classic pulp magazine culture and popular music.
While working on his professional portfolio, John attended film school and directed television news for five years while working construction jobs in the summer. His first published work appeared in a comic by Boneyard Press.
The 52-year-old soon received calls from big publishers after he displayed his works to writer and editor Mark Waid at the San Diego Comic-Con in 1996. His life took a turn after that as he moved to New York.
RIP John Cassaday, one of the great cinematic comics artists of the "widescreen" era pic.twitter.com/7vRHb1WZ5t
— Matthew Perpetua (@perpetua) September 10, 2024
Within a year of moving to the new city, Homage Comics hired John as a regular artist for Desperadoes, which circulated for over a decade. However, his work on the Teen Titans and Flash helped John to establish his name in the industry.
Following such success, John became an in-demand artist working on several comics, including Gen 13, Superman/Batman, The Hulk, and The Avengers. Likewise, his cover art followed a World War II theme, a popular concept among fans and critics.
Given his works with Marvel, the artist appeared in the Captain America 75th Anniversary television special and was responsible for the upcoming Captain America story featuring Sam Wilson.
However, his unfortunate demise left the work unfinished, and his partner, Joss Whedon, will pick it up.
Similarly, his fans have sent messages of condolence to John’s family and have supported them by buying several of his comics and artwork from his official website.
Additional Information
- John Cassidy has won several Eagle and Eisner Awards and nominations for his work, which included Planetary, Astonishing X-Men, Captain America, and Star Wars.
- According to several sources, John Cassidy’s estimated net worth as a comic artist was $1 million before his departure from the industry and unfortunate demise.
- His artworks have been used in the Futureal Studio documentary Adventures into Digital Comics, Dollhouse, Watchmen, and Daredevil.
