Legendary Hulk Writer Peter David Dies at 67 — Comic World Mourns a Storytelling Giant
May 26, 2025 – New York, NY — The comic book world is mourning the loss of one of its most celebrated and influential writers. Peter David, the prolific and beloved creator whose pen redefined The Incredible Hulk and left an indelible mark on characters across Marvel and DC Comics, has died. He was 67 years old.
David’s family confirmed his passing in a statement released Monday morning, noting that he died peacefully at home after years of health complications, including multiple strokes and a prolonged battle with kidney failure. His death marks the end of an era in comic storytelling—one defined by humor, depth, psychological nuance, and a passion for humanizing even the most fantastical heroes.
A Writer Who Reshaped Heroes
Peter David began his comics career in the 1980s, but it was his seminal work on The Incredible Hulk from 1987 to 1998 that truly solidified his legacy. Across an unprecedented 12-year run, David redefined the Green Goliath—not as a one-dimensional brute, but as a complex, fractured man whose multiple Hulk personas were rooted in childhood trauma and dissociative identity disorder. His work introduced fans to the “Grey Hulk” (Joe Fixit), the “Professor Hulk” hybrid personality, and the long-running psychological tension between Bruce Banner and his alter egos.
“Peter saw what others couldn’t,” said Tom Brevoort, longtime Marvel editor. “He gave Hulk a mind, a past, and a soul. He turned a monster into a man—and fans followed him every step of the way.”
In addition to Hulk, David wrote dozens of influential arcs across the Marvel universe, including X-Factor, Spider-Man 2099, Captain Marvel, and The Dark Tower adaptation. He was also known for his work at DC Comics on Supergirl, Aquaman, and Young Justice, always imbuing characters with sharp wit and human vulnerability.
Beyond Comics
David’s talents weren’t limited to comics. He was also a successful novelist, screenwriter, and television writer. His original novels, including the Sir Apropos of Nothing series and Knight Life, earned critical acclaim for their clever prose and genre subversion. He also wrote Star Trek tie-in novels that became New York Times bestsellers, and he served as a writer for the television series Babylon 5 and Space Cases.
Fellow writers describe David as both a mentor and a friend, whose generosity with young talent and unabashed love for the medium made him a cornerstone of the creative community.
“Peter was a titan,” said comic book writer Gail Simone. “He showed us that comics could be funny, tragic, poetic, and smart—sometimes all on the same page. We are all walking in his footsteps.”
A Life in Panels and Pages
Born on September 23, 1957, in Fort Meade, Maryland, Peter Allen David grew up in a military family but found comfort in comic books and writing. He graduated from New York’s SUNY Oneonta and initially worked in publishing before moving to Marvel Comics, where his early editorials and fill-in scripts quickly caught attention.
David’s writing style was characterized by its humor, psychological depth, and social commentary. Whether tackling AIDS in The Incredible Hulk, addiction in X-Factor, or LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream comics, he was never afraid to push the boundaries of the medium.
Over his career, David won multiple Eisner Awards, a GLAAD Media Award, and the respect of millions of fans worldwide. In 2022, he was inducted into the Will Eisner Hall of Fame.
Family and Legacy
Peter David is survived by his wife, Kathleen, and their children. In recent years, she had been his public advocate and caregiver, frequently updating fans on his health while also championing his legacy.
In a heartfelt message posted to social media, Kathleen wrote: “Peter was a storyteller, a father, and a husband whose imagination never stopped. He created worlds, heroes, and memories for so many. We thank everyone for their love.”
Fans and fellow creators flooded social media Monday with tributes, artwork, and memories. Marvel Entertainment released a statement calling David “a cornerstone of our storytelling tradition” and “a hero behind the heroes.”
In honor of his contributions, Marvel announced it would reissue a special Peter David Visionary Collection later this year, spotlighting his most influential arcs.
A Final Page
For fans of The Incredible Hulk, Spider-Man 2099, and countless other titles, Peter David was more than just a writer—he was the voice of an era. His stories taught readers that pain and power can coexist, that heroes are born not just in battle, but in healing. His words brought tears, laughter, and moments of revelation to millions.
As the comics community turns the page on this profound loss, Peter David’s impact will remain eternal—etched in panels, in print, and in the hearts of fans everywhere.