Sal Buscema, the longtime Marvel Comics artist whose distinctive visual storytelling helped define some of the company’s most iconic heroes, passed away on January 24, 2026, at the age of 89. Revered by fans, writers, and fellow artists alike, Buscema leaves behind a towering legacy that shaped the look and feel of Marvel Comics for decades.
Born into a family of extraordinary artistic talent, Sal was the younger brother of legendary Marvel artist John Buscema. While his brother’s name often drew early attention, Sal quickly established himself as a formidable creative force in his own right. He began his professional career working for Dell Comics and in advertising before joining Marvel Comics in the late 1960s, a period of rapid growth and creative experimentation for the publisher.
One of Buscema’s earliest and most acclaimed contributions came as an inker on his brother’s work during a celebrated run on Silver Surfer. His ability to enhance storytelling through expressive line work soon led to penciling assignments, including a notable stint on The Avengers. From there, his career accelerated rapidly.
Over the following decades, Sal Buscema became one of the most prolific and dependable artists in the industry. He worked on an extraordinary range of characters, including Thor, Captain America, the Uncanny X-Men, Namor the Sub-Mariner, and many others. He also played a key role in launching The Defenders, helping establish the tone and visual identity of the unconventional superhero team.
Two extended runs ultimately cemented Buscema’s place in comics history. His ten-year tenure on The Incredible Hulk defined the character for a generation of readers, capturing both the brute force and emotional depth of the Jade Giant. Equally influential was his eight-year run on The Spectacular Spider-Man, where his clean storytelling, expressive figures, and dynamic pacing made him one of the definitive Spider-Man artists of the era.
Writer J.M. DeMatteis, a frequent collaborator, once praised Buscema not only for his immense talent but for his character. “He can draw beautifully, he’s an impeccable visual storyteller and a total professional,” DeMatteis said. “Sal is a truly good person—an old-fashioned gentleman.”
Beyond his artistic achievements, Sal Buscema is remembered for his humility, professionalism, and generosity. His work continues to inspire artists and delight readers worldwide. Though he has passed, the worlds he helped create will endure, panel by panel, for generations to come.