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

Jim Shooter, a pioneering comic book writer, editor, and publisher, has died at age 73 after battling esophageal cancer. Breaking into comics at just 14 years old, Shooter began his career writing for DC Comics’ Legion of Super-Heroes and went on to become Marvel Comics' Editor-in-Chief from 1978 to 1987, where he oversaw landmark titles such as Uncanny X-Men, Daredevil, and Fantastic Four, and launched the first major crossover event, Secret Wars. Shooter was credited with bringing professionalism and creative innovation to Marvel, introducing royalties for creators and supporting top talents like Chris Claremont and John Byrne, though his managerial style was often controversial and led to conflicts. After his Marvel tenure, he co-founded Valiant Comics, creating influential characters such as Bloodshot and X-O Manowar, and later founded Defiant and Broadway Comics. Despite some contentious decisions, including the handling of LGBTQ+ representation, Shooter's legacy is marked by his dedication to storytelling, creator rights, and shaping the modern superhero comic industry. Colleagues like writer Mark Waid have remembered Shooter both for his creative influence and complex personality, expressing admiration and mourning his passing.