Comic book industry legend Steve Ditko has died at age 90.
Ditko most famously co-created Spider-Man and Doctor Strange with Stan Lee, former Marvel Comics editor-in-chief, before leaving the company under mysterious circumstances in 1966.
Many comics industry heavyweights like Neil Gaiman mourned the influential writer and illustrator. Gaiman said, "Ditko was true to his own ideals. He saw things his own way, and he gave us ways of seeing that were unique."
Steve Ditko was true to his own ideals. He saw things his own way, and he gave us ways of seeing that were unique. Often copied. Never equalled. I know I'm a different person because he was in the world. https://t.co/2GFSA86Btj
Just saw this. What a loss, and what an amazing, amazing artist. His work gave me as a kid a peek into a world more surreal and beautiful and terrifying than anything I could possibly have imagined. He was truly one of a kind. https://t.co/HcadRwrEpO
I spoke to Steve ditko on the phone once. I’ve talked about it often. I got to thank him for creating Spider-man and putting food on my table. I hope he really heard me
Spider-Man, Dr. Strange, Squirrel Girl, Mr. A, Speedball, and so many others. RIP Steve Ditko, creator of heroes and infinite wonders. https://t.co/Lj4DEzn4yd
Filmmakers, including Doctor Strange director Scott Derrickson, also said goodbye to Ditko on Twitter.
Goodbye Steve Ditko
RIP to comic book legend Steve Ditko, beyond influential on countless planes of existence. He never truly profited from his comic creations that have lasted for decades, but his work will never be forgotten. https://t.co/UBZQWpF79i
RIP Steve Ditko. A complicated life, an amazing artistic legacy. Thank you for your creativity. https://t.co/Yi443uyCIS