Groundbreaking comics writer, artist, and editor Howard Cruse has passed away, according to a post by his daughter on Facebook. He was 75. His first comic work was the underground comic Barefootz, published by Kitchen Sink Press between 1975 and 1979. In 1979 he began editing Gay Comix, an anthology with stories by gay and lesbian cartoonists, also published by Kitchen Sink Press.
Perhaps his magnum opus was Stuck Rubber Baby, published under DC’s Paradox Press imprint in the 90s, in a Vertigo edition in 2010, and due for a new edition from First Second next May.
Cruse was the first out gay comic creator we remember emerging from the underground comics scene; his creations told the stories of gay characters and his editing gave visibility to a generation of LGBT writers and artists.
Cruse is survived by his husband, Eddie Sedarbaum, other family members, and friends and colleagues.

Founder and Editor of 'Gay Comix,' Creator of 'Barefootz,' 'Stuck Rubber Baby'
Posted by Milton Griepp on November 27, 2019 @ 11:28 am CT

MORE COMICS
Ten Speed Graphic Fall 2025 Catalog
July 11, 2025
Ten Speed Graphic has released its Fall 2025 catalog.
From Dynamite Entertainment
July 11, 2025
Check out the preview for Gargoyles: Demona #1, published by Dynamite Entertainment.
MORE NEWS
At Recent Heritage Auction; Frazetta Original Comic Art Closes Over $1 Million
July 11, 2025
An Action Comics #1 cover wrap hammered at over $400,000 at Heritage Auctions' June 26-29, 2025 Comic & Comic Art Signature Auction.
As Chief Growth Officer
July 11, 2025
Paizo, Inc. has hired Christian Moore as their Chief Growth Officer, the company announced.