Gerry Conway was one of the true greats of comic book creators. Over a career that spanned from the 1970s to the modern era, he wrote some of the most iconic and unforgettable stories in the medium’s history.
Conway began his career remarkably early, entering the comic industry at just 16 years old when he wrote for DC Comics on House of Secrets #81. By age 19, he took over writing The Amazing Spider-Man from Stan Lee—a monumental achievement that led to some of Marvel’s most defining moments. During his time on Spider-Man, Conway penned the heartbreaking storyline “The Night Gwen Stacy Died,” introduced The Punisher, and wrote the death of Norman Osborn. He frequently moved between Marvel and DC throughout his career and spent eight years writing various Justice League titles. One of his most memorable projects remains the legendary 96-page, tabloid-sized intercompany crossover Superman vs. The Amazing Spider-Man #1.
Conway also co-created an incredible number of characters across both publishers. His legacy includes characters such as The Punisher, Ms. Marvel, Ben Reilly, Man-Thing, The Jackal, Hammerhead, Tombstone, Firestorm, Power Girl, Vixen, Killer Croc, and Jason Todd—just to name a few.
The reaction to Gerry Conway’s passing has been tremendous, with fans, creators, and readers across generations sharing their love and appreciation for his work. Many have expressed how his stories left a lasting impression, even before they knew his name.
Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige shared this about the impact Conway has had.
“Gerry Conway brought real stakes to his writing, able to weave together sensational super heroics with the human and relatable, and in doing so created some of the most memorable stories and characters of all time,” Feige said. “His writing has been hugely impactful across our comics, but it has also inspired so much of what we’ve done on screen, from Werewolf by Night to Daredevil to Spider-Man and Punisher. Gerry was a wonderful collaborator and friend to so many and will be dearly missed.”
Marvel comics posted a long tribute to him here. Below is the first couple of paragraphs.
On behalf of his family, we are sad to share that writer and former editor-in-chief Gerry Conway has passed away. Gerry was a tremendous icon in comics who shaped pop culture itself. He was a dear friend, partner, and mentor, and our hearts are with his family and the millions he touched through his work. Marvel extends its sincerest condolences to all who knew and loved him.
“Gerry Conway was a gifted writer. He was thoughtful, deeply attuned to the emotional and moral core of storytelling, and a wonderful and articulate advocate for comics and creators. His writing has inspired all of us at Marvel, and will continue to inspire generations of writers, readers and fans to come,” remembers Dan Buckley, President of Marvel Comics and Franchise. (Marvel)
Below is a Tweet on X about the passing of Gerry Consay.
On behalf of his family, we are sad to share that Gerry Conway has passed away. Gerry was a tremendous icon in comics who shaped pop culture itself. He was a dear friend, partner, and mentor, and our hearts are with his family and the millions he touched through his work. pic.twitter.com/jwUgdSdvnt
— Marvel Comics (@MarvelComicsHQ) April 27, 2026
I have always loved the stories that Gerry Conway told. As a kid, I didn’t know he was the writer, but I knew I loved the story. Over time, I came to recognize his writing—if he was writing it, I knew I would love it. Thank you, Gerry, for all of the AMAZING memories and stories.
Rest in peace!
