Al Feldstein, American author and illustrator (b. 1925)

Albert Bernard Feldstein, an iconic American writer, editor, and artist, left an indelible mark on popular culture from the mid-20th century well into the 21st. Born on October 24, 1925, and passing away on April 29, 2014, Feldstein's career was characterized by remarkable versatility and a profound influence on two distinct, yet equally revolutionary, publishing ventures: EC Comics and Mad magazine.

Feldstein first rose to prominence through his pivotal work at EC Comics during the post-war era. As a prolific writer, editor, and artist, he was instrumental in shaping the distinct identity of EC's groundbreaking line of horror, science fiction, crime, and war comics. He was at the helm of creating memorable and often controversial titles such as Tales from the Crypt, The Vault of Horror, Weird Science, and Crime SuspenStories. Under his creative direction, EC Comics pushed the boundaries of sequential art, delivering sophisticated narratives with moralistic undertones that challenged contemporary societal norms and expectations for comic books. His tenure at EC established him as a visionary who understood the power of sequential storytelling to entertain, provoke, and comment on the human condition.

Following the significant changes in the comic book industry and the eventual decline of EC's original line due to censorship pressures, Feldstein transitioned to a new, equally impactful role. In 1956, he took over as the editor of Mad magazine, a satirical publication that had originated as a comic book under the EC umbrella. For an extraordinary run spanning nearly three decades, until his retirement in 1985, Feldstein meticulously guided Mad into becoming one of America's most influential and beloved humor magazines. Under his editorial leadership, Mad magazine became a cultural touchstone, lampooning everything from advertising, politics, and consumerism to movies, television, and popular music. Its unique brand of irreverent, often biting, satire shaped the comedic sensibilities of generations and cemented its place as a groundbreaking institution that challenged authority and celebrated absurdity.

After stepping down from the demanding role at Mad, Feldstein embarked on a significant career shift, dedicating his time and artistic talent to a long-held passion. He concentrated on creating detailed and evocative American paintings of Western wildlife. This artistic pursuit represented a profound departure from the fast-paced, satirical world of comics and magazines, showcasing another dimension of his creative spirit. His wildlife art, often celebrated for its realism and connection to the natural world, offered a peaceful yet powerful contrast to his earlier work, illustrating the breadth of his artistic capabilities and his continued desire for creative expression.

Frequently Asked Questions About Albert B. Feldstein

Who was Albert B. Feldstein?

Albert B. Feldstein was an influential American writer, editor, and artist, best known for his transformative work at EC Comics and as the long-time editor of Mad magazine.

What was Feldstein's contribution to EC Comics?

At EC Comics, Feldstein served as a versatile writer, editor, and artist, playing a crucial role in developing iconic horror, science fiction, and crime titles such as Tales from the Crypt, Weird Science, and Crime SuspenStories. He was instrumental in shaping the company's distinctive and often controversial narrative style.

How long did Albert Feldstein edit Mad magazine?

Albert Feldstein edited Mad magazine for nearly three decades, from 1956 until his retirement in 1985, guiding its transformation into a major cultural force in satirical humor.

What made Mad magazine so significant under Feldstein's editorship?

Under Feldstein's editorship, Mad magazine became renowned for its sharp, irreverent, and often critical satire of American popular culture, politics, and everyday life, influencing generations of humorists and readers.

What did Albert Feldstein do after retiring from Mad?

After retiring from Mad magazine, Albert Feldstein focused on his passion for painting, specializing in detailed and realistic American Western wildlife art.

When was Albert B. Feldstein born and when did he pass away?

Albert B. Feldstein was born on October 24, 1925, and passed away on April 29, 2014.