Scott Adams, Creator of Dilbert, Dies at 68
Scott Adams, the influential cartoonist behind the iconic "Dilbert" comic strip, has passed away at 68 after a battle with cancer. Adams’s death was announced by his ex-wife, Shelly Miles, during a live stream of his podcast, leaving a notable silence in the world of satire and commentary.
Why It Matters
Adams’s work has profoundly impacted the comic landscape, offering a satirical take on corporate culture and workplace dynamics. His best-selling books and extensive reach in over 2,000 newspapers across 65 countries made him a prominent voice in American humor. However, his legacy was complicated by recent controversies surrounding his remarks on race, leading to significant backlash and the cancellation of his comic in several major newspapers.
Key Developments
- Scott Adams announced his prostate cancer diagnosis in May 2025, revealing it had spread to his bones.
- In early January 2023, he indicated that his health was unlikely to improve, citing severe complications.
- His comic strip, "Dilbert," was cancelled by numerous newspapers, including the Washington Post, following accusations of racist comments.
- President Trump paid tribute to Adams on social media, highlighting his character and their relationship.
- Shelly Miles shared a heartfelt message from Adams during his final podcast, encouraging listeners to pay it forward.
Full Report
Career Highlights and Achievements
Scott Adams first introduced "Dilbert" in 1989, quickly becoming a staple in the world of comics. His portrayal of a competent engineer navigating a quagmire of corporate ineptitude struck a chord with readers, leading to widespread popularity. Over the years, Adams expanded his brand through books, animated television adaptations, and even video games.
Adams held the National Cartoonists Society’s prestigious Reuben Award in 1997, recognizing his significant contributions to the field. His self-help books, such as "How to Fail at Almost Everything and Still Win Big," further showcased his unique perspective on success and failure.
Health Issues
After revealing his prostate cancer diagnosis in May 2025, Adams underwent extensive treatment. In his January 2023 podcast, he shared sobering updates about his declining health, stating, “I’ll give you any updates if that changes, but it won’t.” He noted difficulties such as loss of feeling in his legs and ongoing heart failure.
Recent Controversies
In 2023, Adams faced a considerable backlash after making inflammatory comments regarding race. He labeled Black Americans a "hate group" and urged white people to distance themselves from Black individuals. This generated widespread condemnation and led to the cancellation of "Dilbert" by various media outlets, including the Washington Post. Adams defended his comments as hyperbole, arguing that the context was ignored.
In the wake of his passing, President Trump took to Truth Social, expressing condolences and reflecting on their relationship, saying, "He bravely fought a long battle against a terrible disease."
Context & Previous Events
Adams’s influence on the comic strip genre is well-documented, with "Dilbert" becoming an essential cultural touchstone over the last three decades. Despite the recent controversies that marred his late career, his earlier work remains a significant reflection of workplace culture in America. The cartoonist’s candid approach to discussing his health struggles and personal philosophy in his podcast marked a final chapter in his storied career, aiming to inspire others even in his last days.
