Jules Feiffer, Acclaimed Cartoonist and Illustrator, Dies at 95

January 21, 2025
Jules Feiffer, Acclaimed Cartoonist and Illustrator, Dies at 95
  • Jules Feiffer, a Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist, playwright, author, and screenwriter, passed away on January 17, 2025, at the age of 95 due to congestive heart failure at his home in Richfield Springs, New York.

  • Feiffer joined The Village Voice in 1956 as a staff cartoonist, where he created the influential weekly comic strip 'Feiffer,' which ran for over 40 years until 1997 and was syndicated to more than 100 newspapers.

  • In addition to his comic strip, Feiffer wrote a weekly column titled 'Sick, Sick, Sick' for The Village Voice, humorously critiquing politicians and societal issues from 1956 to 1997.

  • Feiffer's film career began with the Oscar-winning animated short 'Munro' in 1961, which critiqued military mentality through the story of a child drafted into the military.

  • He began his career as a political cartoonist influenced by the cautious attitudes of his contemporaries regarding free expression after serving in the army.

  • His legacy includes a unique ability to balance humor with serious themes, showcasing a lifelong commitment to creativity and learning.

  • Feiffer is survived by his wife, JZ Holden, and three children, leaving behind a rich cultural legacy.

  • Throughout his career, Feiffer authored nearly 30 books, plays, and films, including notable works like 'Harry the Rat with Women' and the children's book 'Bark, George.'

  • He is best known for his screenplays for significant films, including Mike Nichols's 'Carnal Knowledge' and Robert Altman's 'Popeye,' the latter of which received mixed reviews despite decent box office performance.

  • In a 2010 interview, Feiffer expressed that his success stemmed from determination, relying on 'accident, luck, desperation,' and resilience.

  • Feiffer illustrated the beloved children's novel 'The Phantom Tollbooth,' which has sold over 5 million copies and has been adapted into various media.

  • In his later years, Feiffer remained active in the literary community, teaching courses on humor and graphic novels at Yale and SUNY Stony Brook.

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