Comics creator Donna Barr saw the news of Will Eisner's death (see 'EXTRA: In Memoriam: Will Eisner') and shared this recollection:

 

One year at the Eisners, Jeff Smith and I were watching in amazement as the aged master, Will Eisner, did the whole show on his feet.

 

'This is wrong,' said Jeff.  'He's an old guy, and anyway, he shouldn't have to stand the whole time.  They should at least show a little respect and get the man a chair.'

 

'Chair, hell,' I snorted.  'They should get that man a throne.'

 

Never make a joke around Jeff Smith.
 
The rest is history.