Comic book artist Juan Giménez has passed away at the age of 79 after losing his battle with COVID-19. The artist has been hospitalized since March 22 and was later diagnosed with coronavirus. Giménez passed away in his hometown of Mendoz, Argentina where he was born in 1943.
The passing was confirmed Friday morning by his long-time publisher Humanoids.
RIP Juan Giménez, the writer, artist, and genre trailblazer behind The Metabarons, The Fourth Power, and Leo Roa. The universe is a darker place to explore without you. pic.twitter.com/RYenzRfJvF
— Humanoids (@humanoidsinc) April 3, 2020
Giménez was an Argentine comic book artist that was perhaps best known for his work on the science fiction comic series, The Metabarons, which he co-created with Alejandro Jodorowsky. The series, which ran from 1992 until 2003, depicted a space opera reminiscent of Greek tragedy, and was heavily influenced by Frank Herbert’s Dune. Soon after its conclusion it was reprinted in English in collected editions by Humanoids from 2004 until 2010.
In addition to The Metabarons the artist also received high praise for his contributions to the science fiction adult animated film Heavy Metal.
A number of comic creators reacted to Giménez’s passing.
“He was a brilliant artist and a treasure of South America and to all the illustration world” — Jill Thompson
“He did beautiful elaborate and decorative work that was the envy of many, including me. Never met him, but I didn’t have to. His influence touched my work and still remains, hidden away here and there.” — Walter Simonson
We lost Argentina's master comics artist Juan Giménez to COVID. Sad… https://t.co/9cWY6XZX2O
— Neil Gaiman (@neilhimself) April 3, 2020
RIP the great Juan Giménez.
I didn't know him but loved his work. He was actually a major influence (don't know if it shows) on the more tech sci-fi bits of my old IRONWOLF graphic novel.
Sadly sounds like he was a victim of COVID19. pic.twitter.com/fgaQCPkTb8— Mike Mignola (@artofmmignola) April 3, 2020
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