Comics Percy Carey’s Comic Book Corner: Dwayne McDuffie

[Each Wednesday, Complex columnist Percy Carey a.k.a. MF GRIMM dives into the world of comic books with industry interviews, reviews and more.]

For those who grew up reading comics, I’m sure you will agree with me when I say that it’s every child’s dream to one day meet their favorite superhero. Superman, Thor, Wonder Woman, Fantastic Four, Batman…well, my favorite all time superhero is actually a comic book creator named Dwayne McDuffie. In the realm of comic books, Dwayne is Jackie Robinson to me. Mr. McDuffie paved the way for artist like me to follow; and if followed correctly it will guide an artist down a successful path.

If it wasn’t for Dwayne McDuffie, there wouldn’t be a Sentences: The Life of MF GRIMM. Vertigo/DC Comics took a chance with my book when no other publishing company would even return my phone call, in part because of Dwayne McDuffie and the success of Milestone Media (the other half is because of the wonderful Karen Berger of Vertigo). And I would like to state for the record that following me into the comic book arena are artist that will break barriers and sell units of comics in the millions by using unconventional formats and channels of distribution, sales tactics and marketing strategies that are not formula to the industry. I remember Knight Rider, when the narrator would say, “One man can make a difference.” Well Dwayne McDuffie is that man, but I’m here to tell you Dwayne McDuffie is no longer alone…he has an loyal army of supporters. Like I said before, it’s every child’s dream to one day meet their favorite superhero. Well my dream came true and yours can too. Enjoy the interview…