Legendary comic book writer Peter David, whose masterful 12-year run on The Incredible Hulk redefined the character and influenced generations of storytellers, has passed away at age 68 after battling prolonged health issues.
At a Glance
- Peter David, renowned for his transformative 12-year run on “The Incredible Hulk,” died at age 68 after battling multiple health issues
- His groundbreaking work explored Bruce Banner’s psychological struggles and dissociative identity disorder, influencing Ang Lee’s 2003 Hulk film
- David co-created Spider-Man 2099 and Young Justice while writing for numerous major titles including Aquaman, Supergirl, and Star Trek
- Beyond comics, he wrote novels, TV scripts for shows like Babylon 5, and co-created Nickelodeon’s Space Cases
- Despite a GoFundMe raising over $120,000 for medical expenses, David passed away after facing financial challenges when dropped from Medicaid
A Comic Legend’s Final Chapter
Peter David’s death was confirmed by his wife, Kathleen O’Shea David, who shared the news on social media. “Since it is out there. Peter David passed away last night. We are devastated. More when I can write about it,” she wrote in the heartbreaking announcement that sent shockwaves through the comic book community. David had been hospitalized and facing serious health complications, with his wife previously updating fans that he had been placed on a ventilator but was showing signs of improvement.
David’s most celebrated work came during his 12-year tenure writing The Incredible Hulk, where he revolutionized the character by delving deep into Bruce Banner’s psychological struggles. His innovative approach to the character explored Banner’s dissociative identity disorder, transforming what had been a relatively straightforward monster story into a complex psychological drama. This groundbreaking interpretation earned David an Eisner Award in 1992 and profoundly influenced how the Hulk would be portrayed in future comics and adaptations, including Ang Lee’s 2003 film.
RIP Peter David, a key Marvel writer. His run on INCREDIBLE HULK featured ascendant work by Todd McFarlane & Dale Keown. His Hulk: Future Imperfect story brought George Perez back to Marvel for a spell. https://t.co/31JGHMXudH
— Borys Kit (@Borys_Kit) May 25, 2025
Creating Comic Book Icons
Beyond his defining work on the Hulk, David’s creative genius extended to numerous other beloved series and characters. He co-created Spider-Man 2099 (Miguel O’Hara) and the DC Comics teen superhero team Young Justice, both of which developed devoted followings. His impressive resume included significant runs on Aquaman, Supergirl, The Sensational Spider-Man, and X-Factor, as well as work on The Avengers, Captain Marvel, Fantastic Four, and Wolverine.
“I was researching the series because I really hadn’t been reading it and I came upon this Bill Mantlo story that detailed Bruce’s being abused as a child. That suggested the entire Multiple Personality Disorder angle. The notion that Bruce had never been able to cure himself because he always treated himself from the outside in, and the problem was that his difficulty was on the inside working itself out. That the Hulk was part of his personality; the gamma rays just gave it form.”, said Peter David.
David’s talent for humanizing fantastical characters was perhaps his greatest gift to readers. He created memorable villains like The Maestro (an evil future version of the Hulk) and developed fan-favorite characters including Strong Guy, Genis-Vell, and Joe Fixit. His ability to bring emotional depth and psychological complexity to superhero stories elevated the medium and demonstrated the literary potential of comics.
Those who know are aware of how much of a legend he is. He might not have created The Hulk but many would claim he is THE Hulk guy in the same way Chris Claremont is seen as THE X-Men guy.
— Jay (@CreatureLives) May 25, 2025
Beyond the Comic Page
David’s creative talents extended far beyond the panels of comic books. He authored numerous novels, including Star Trek adaptations and novelizations of major films like Batman Forever, Transformers, Iron Man, and Spider-Man. His work in television included co-creating Nickelodeon’s science fiction series Space Cases and writing episodes for popular shows including Babylon 5, Young Justice, and Ben 10: Alien Force. Before his successful career in fiction, David worked as a reporter, bringing journalistic sensibilities to his storytelling.
“Sad news today of the passing of both Peter David and Tod Smith, both talented longtime comics pros. Peter I met when he was at the Marvel Direct Sales Department, and then I worked with him when he was writing HULK and I was in the Direct Sales Department — we cooked up the ‘Countdown’ event together (well, I suggested it as a promo thing, he did the hard work) and I gave him the kernel of a Rhino story a bit later. He was always a pleasure to hang out with and talk, which I didn’t get to do anywhere near enough of, and of course his career is chock full of storied and memorable runs. My condolences to his family and friends.”, said Kurt Busiek.
In his final months, David faced significant health and financial challenges. Despite being in remission for three years, he encountered financial difficulties after being dropped from Medicaid. A GoFundMe page started by family friend Graham Murphy raised over $120,000 to help with medical expenses, demonstrating the deep respect and affection the comic book community held for him. His passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, friends, and fans who recognized his immense contributions to the medium.
A Lasting Legacy
Peter David’s legacy as one of the most influential comic book writers of his generation is secure. His work demonstrated that comics could tell complex, emotionally resonant stories with psychological depth and literary merit. The characters he created or reinvented continue to appear in comics, films, and television shows, ensuring that future generations will experience his creative vision. For fans of the medium, David’s name will forever be associated with storytelling excellence and the elevation of comic books as a serious art form.
As tributes continue to pour in from across the industry, it’s clear that Peter David’s impact extended beyond his impressive body of work. He helped shape the modern comic book landscape and inspired countless writers who followed in his footsteps. While funeral arrangements have not yet been announced, the comic book community has already begun celebrating the life and work of a true visionary whose stories will continue to entertain and inspire readers for generations to come.
