Scott Adams, the American cartoonist who created the globally syndicated Dilbert comic strip, has died at the age of 70. His death was confirmed by his family, who stated he passed away following a battle with cancer.
The Rise and Reign of a Comic Strip Phenomenon
Adams launched Dilbert in 1989, and it quickly became a cultural touchstone. The strip, which satirised the absurdities of corporate office life and management fads, struck a chord with millions of employees worldwide. At its peak, Dilbert was published in nearly 2,000 newspapers across 65 countries and was translated into 25 languages.
The comic's success spawned a vast empire, including best-selling books, an animated television series, and a wide range of merchandise. Adams became a prominent commentator on workplace culture, blending his cartooning with business advice and public speaking.
A Legacy Marred by Controversy
Despite his professional achievements, Adams's later career was defined by controversy. In February 2023, he faced widespread backlash after making racially charged comments during a YouTube livestream. In response to a Rasmussen Reports poll, Adams described Black Americans as a "hate group" and advised white people to "get the hell away" from them.
The fallout was swift and severe. Major newspaper publishers and distributors, including Andrews McMeel Syndication, dropped the Dilbert strip almost overnight. This mass cancellation effectively ended the comic's 33-year run in mainstream print media, though Adams continued to publish it on his subscription website.
Remembering the Man and His Work
Scott Adams was born in 1957 and held a bachelor's degree in economics from Hartwick College and an MBA from the University of California, Berkeley. He worked at Crocker National Bank and Pacific Bell before Dilbert's success allowed him to become a full-time cartoonist.
Reactions to his death have been mixed, reflecting his complex legacy. Many fans and peers have expressed condolences, remembering the sharp wit and relatable humour that made Dilbert a staple for office workers. Others have reiterated the deep hurt caused by his public statements.
Adams is survived by his wife, Kristina Basham, and two siblings. No details regarding a public memorial service have been announced at this time. The world of cartooning has lost one of its most commercially successful and divisive figures, a man whose work brought laughter to millions but whose words ultimately led to his professional downfall.
