Will Murray: Remembering the Legacy of the Squirrel Girl Co-Creator

The world of comic books and pulp literature lost one of its most versatile voices this week. Will Murray, a revered author, comic book writer, and dedicated historian, has passed away at the age of 73. Known for his expansive bibliography that spanned from the golden age of pulp heroes to the vibrant world of Marvel superheroes, Murray leaves behind a legacy defined by his immense passion for storytelling.

The Enduring Impact of Will Murray on Pop Culture

While his career was incredibly diverse, Murray is perhaps most affectionately remembered by modern fans as the co-creator of Squirrel Girl. Alongside legendary artist Steve Ditko, Murray introduced the world to Doreen Green in 1991’s Marvel Super-Heroes #8. What began as a whimsical addition to the Marvel Universe blossomed over the decades, with Murray even returning to write for the character as recently as 2019.

Beyond his contributions to Marvel, Murray was a titan in the world of pulp fiction. His work helped preserve and revitalize classic archetypes that paved the way for the superheroes we know today. His notable contributions include:

• Writing numerous Doc Savage novels under the house name Kenneth Robeson.
• Extensive work on iconic properties like Tarzan, The Shadow, and The Spider.
• Ghostwriting the acclaimed The Destroyer series featuring Remo Williams.
• Crafting diverse stories for DC Comics anthologies starring Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman.

A Scholar of Comics and Pulp History

Will Murray was more than just a writer; he was a gatekeeper of literary history. As the literary executor for the estate of Doc Savage creator Lester Dent, he played a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of pulp literature. His peers, including Mark Evanier, have lauded him as a versatile talent and an essential historian whose knowledge of the medium was unparalleled.

He was a great scholar and writer, and friend, and will be deeply missed by everyone who knew him. — Matt Moring, Steeger Books

Looking Back at a Prolific Career

From his early days writing for fanzines to his 2023 induction into the First Fandom Hall of Fame, Murray’s dedication to the craft never wavered. Whether he was penning an Untold Tales of Spider-Man arc or digging deep into the archives of pulp lore, he approached every project with a scholar’s precision and a fan’s enthusiasm. His work ensured that characters from the past remained relevant for future generations of readers and gamers alike. He will be remembered as a cornerstone of the industry whose influence will continue to ripple through the pages of our favorite stories for years to come.

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