The comic world lost a legend! Mort Todd, a true visionary from Maine, shaped the pages of Marvel, DC, and even revitalized Cracked magazine. From launching careers to creating his own humor publication in Portland, his impact was immense. What’s your favorite piece of work or memory of a creator who left their mark?

The comic book world mourns the passing of Mort Todd, a visionary editor and artist who profoundly influenced both mainstream and independent comics. Known for his uninhibited humor and supportive nature, Todd’s career spanned decades, leaving an indelible mark on iconic characters and nurturing the talents of many aspiring artists.

Todd’s journey through the vibrant landscape of comic book publishing began in the 1980s, culminating in significant roles at industry giants Marvel and DC Comics. Beyond the superhero realm, he held the esteemed position of editor at Cracked, a prominent humor magazine often likened to the legendary Mad, where his unique sensibility flourished.

As an editor, writer, and artist, Todd’s versatility was unparalleled. He contributed to the narratives of beloved characters such as Superman and Spider-Man, while also lending his artistic prowess to diverse projects, including CD covers, magazines, and various print advertisements. His reputation for fostering creativity extended to his editorial work, where he was celebrated for actively championing and hiring emerging artists, notably Daniel Clowes, significantly launching their careers.

Born Michael Jon DelleFemine in Yarmouth, Maine, Todd’s formative years were steeped in a passion for comics and drawing. Following his graduation from Yarmouth High School, he ventured to New York City, pursuing formal education at institutions like Parsons School of Design while simultaneously honing his craft and selling his work to various publications. His early successes, including writing for DC’s Superman and creating album art, gradually led him to prioritize his professional artistic pursuits over academic studies.

A pivotal moment arrived in 1985 when Todd assumed the editorship of Cracked magazine. Under his guidance, the publication underwent a remarkable rejuvenation, attracting a new wave of talent. A testament to his influential tenure, a tribute on Cracked’s Facebook page highlighted his greatest artistic coup: successfully enticing the esteemed cartoonist Don Martin to depart Mad magazine and join the ranks of Cracked.

The 1990s saw Todd at Marvel, where he helmed Marvel Music, an innovative line of comics that reimagined rock stars within the comic book format. After his departure from Marvel around 1995, his creative energy remained undiminished, leading him to explore various independent endeavors, including the production of a documentary film focused on the distinctive medium of photo comic books.

After more than three decades immersed in the dynamic New York art scene, Todd returned to his roots in Portland, Maine. Here, he continued his artistic endeavors, creating TV commercials and painting murals. Driven by a long-held ambition to create a humor magazine tailored for the 21st century—an idea that had germinated during his Cracked tenure—he launched Vex, a free, comic-centric weekly newspaper. This 16-page publication showcased strips by his artist friends and himself, alongside opinion pieces, editorials, arts listings, and local advertisements, embodying his vision for contemporary humor.

Maine humorist and artist Tim Sample, who contributed cartoons to Vex, vividly recalls Todd’s infectious energy and distinctive spirit. Sample described Todd’s approach as “off the cuff and slightly irreverent,” perfectly aligning with the vibrant and unique character of Portland in earlier times. This sentiment underscores Todd’s enduring philosophy that his main intent, regardless of the medium, was always to amuse and entertain, a drive that originated from his childhood fascination with comics.