Aspen Comics’ Editorial Director Vince Hernandez sadly announced the passing of fan favourite comic creator Michael Turner at the age of 37.
From Aspen Comics’ Message Boards:
Hello all,
Unfortunately it’s with great sadness that I must inform everyone that Michael Turner tragically passed away last night, June 27th at approximately 10:42 pm in Santa Monica, Ca. Turner had been dealing with recent health complications arisen in the past few weeks. More details concerning Turner’s passing, and services, will be given shortly.
Anyone wishing to send their condolences to Michael Turner’s family is encouraged to send to:
Aspen MLT, Inc.
C/O Michael Turner
5855 Green Valley Circle, Suite 111
Culver City, CA, 90230Aspen also encourages anyone wishing to make a charitable donation to please send to Michael Turner’s requested charities:
Or
Official Contact: Vince Hernandez
Turner got his big break into comics as the artist and co-creator of Witchblade. Shortly afterwards he moved onto his creator-owned series Fathom and eventually started his own publishing company, Aspen MLT Inc. He also worked with Marvel and DC Comics doing mostly covers but he also illustrated the six-issue “Supergirl from Krypton” story arc in Superman/Batman.
In March 2000, Turner was diagnosed with cancer which he lost his entire hip, 40% of his pelvis, and three pounds of bone. Since then he has been in and out of treatment for his condition.
Whenever I saw Michael Turner at cons, he was always smiling, very humble and very approachable. When I got word from colorist Blond of his passing, I had to do a double take. I knew he was sick but I kept wanting and thinking he was going to get better. It is such a shame he spent such little time with us. He will definitely be missed.
All of us at Newsarama send our condolences to his loved ones and to those that loved him.
June 28th, 2008 at 5:48 am
Rest in peace, Mike. My condolences go to his family, friends and fans.
June 28th, 2008 at 6:12 am
my condolences to his friends and family. you’ll be missed, Mike
June 28th, 2008 at 6:28 am
Oh no! This man was one of comics modern day visionaries. You could tell his work easily over his peers with beautiful fine linework, sexy and pixie-ish women and hyper muscular males. His work had a dynamism to it that transcended the comics page. I can’t believe we will soon never see any more from this talented artist, whose cover depictions of everything from the JLA to X-men made you want to buy the book for their gorgeous covers alone. I am very sad.
June 28th, 2008 at 9:17 am
Its a very very sad day….nuff said.
June 28th, 2008 at 9:19 am
wow i’m in shock. seriously in shock.
June 28th, 2008 at 9:56 am
This is terrible news. He and George Carlin in the same week is a real blow to my childhood.
I never met Turner or had any interactions with him. I prized that first issue of Witchblade I had until I sold it for money during college.
I was always struck by how upbeat he was whenever you read about his cancer problems. I always wished the best for him. I think his passing is sadder than Carlin’s because at least George had a full life.
I am glad they both have a body of work that people will forever marvel at, though. I guess that’s something.
June 28th, 2008 at 11:14 am
Very shocking.
June 28th, 2008 at 12:31 pm
Couldnt believe it when I read it. Not much to say; just a sad day. RIP Mike…
June 28th, 2008 at 12:56 pm
Another valued artist lost to us all. What a shock. Rest in Peace and my prayers go out to his family and friends.
June 28th, 2008 at 3:21 pm
Farewell Mike,
I hope that you will rest in eternal peace.
June 28th, 2008 at 5:11 pm
you will be missed!! i cant say how much you’ve inspired me!!
June 28th, 2008 at 9:28 pm
Michael you were the reason i got back into collecting back in 2004, I remeber when i first saw an issue of soulfire and i said to myself” Damn this artwork is unbelievable” my condoleneces go to his friends,family, and fans everywhere. First george carlin now this
peace
June 28th, 2008 at 11:00 pm
My condolence to his family and friends.
One of today’s best artist to say the least. He will be missed.
June 29th, 2008 at 12:07 am
From all of us in Malaysia,
Rest in Peace Michael.
Your work is an inspiration to us all.
June 29th, 2008 at 2:00 am
I must confess that Turner’s art was not my cup of tea, but the story of his personal battle to overcome his cancer really impressed me. It’s very sad to learn of his demise.
My condolences to all of his family and friends.
June 29th, 2008 at 12:54 pm
I only know turner by his books, but… He has achieved so much at so young an age.. I salute you, Michael Turner!! I sincerely say that you’re a marvel!! I won’t say any sad words…
June 30th, 2008 at 8:59 am
Very sad news.
July 21st, 2008 at 11:53 am
From Crossville: our awesome memories of you will live on.
We are proud of your accomplishments.
Condolences to the close family and friends.