Legendary comic book writer Peter David, best known for his 12-year run on The Incredible Hulk, has passed away at the age of 68.
His death was announced on Sunday by his friend and fellow author, Keith R.A. DeCandido on Facebook.
“Just got the news that Peter David finally lost his rather lengthy battle with his failing physical form last night. I first met Peter 35 years ago, when he appeared on The Chronic Rift public access show, and over the last three-and-a-half decades, he has been a respected creator, a good friend, a valued colleague, and a generally wonderful person.”
“I have a lot to say about him, but right now I’m just sad that I won’t get to enjoy his delightfully smart and funny presence ever again. And I’m also thinking of his wife Kathleen O’Shea David, and his daughters Ariel, Shana, Gwen, and Caroline.”
Peter David, the acclaimed comic book writer and novelist, was widely celebrated for his dynamic storytelling. Born on September 23, 1956, in Fort Meade, Maryland, David developed a love for writing at a young age. After graduating from New York University, he began his professional career in publishing, working as a sales manager for Marvel Comics before transitioning into writing full-time.
David is perhaps best known for his groundbreaking 12-year run on The Incredible Hulk, where he redefined the character by exploring the psychological complexity of Bruce Banner and his many alter egos. His tenure on The Incredible Hulk is often cited as one of the most definitive and influential periods in the character’s history.
Beyond The Incredible Hulk, David’s prolific career spanned numerous titles and publishers. He wrote memorable runs on X-Factor, Aquaman, Spider-Man 2099, Supergirl, and Fallen Angel, among others. His work consistently showcased his signature wit, layered characters, and ability to balance humor with serious storytelling. David also contributed to major crossover events, mini-series, and one-shots. In addition to comics, Peter David was a successful novelist, penning numerous Star Trek novels, including several bestsellers.
He also wrote original works like the Sir Apropos of Nothing fantasy series. His versatility extended to television, film novelizations, and video games.
Throughout his career, David received numerous awards and honors, including the Eisner Award, the Haxtur Award, and multiple Wizard Fan Awards.
David’s death comes just months after a family friend, Graham Murphy, relaunched a GoFundMe campaign to help him and his wife cover mounting medical bills after he was denied Medicaid. According to the fundraiser, David had been in recovery for three years while managing ongoing health issues, including kidney disease, minor surgeries, and several small strokes. Despite these challenges, his condition had been steadily improving in recent years.
In the most recent GoFundMe update posted on May 20 David’s wife wrote, “Due to his inability to cough or clear his throat, he is temporarily on a ventilator.” In a May 27th update, his death was attributed to a “cardiac event.”
