Billy Graham

Billy Graham (July 1, 1935 – 1997) was Marvel Comics' first Black artist and one of the most historically significant figures in the medium's relationship with Black creators. A graduate of New York City's Music & Art High School, Graham began his comics career at Warren Publishing, where he contributed to Vampirella, Creepy, and Eerie and was quickly promoted to art director. He joined Marvel in the early 1970s and became the primary artist on Luke Cage, Hero for Hire — the first ongoing solo series starring a Black superhero — bringing authenticity, energy, and genuine craft to a landmark title. He went on to illustrate the Black Panther's acclaimed Jungle Action run with writer Don McGregor, beginning with issue #10. Beyond comics, Graham had a rich parallel career in theater and film: he was a standup comedian and master of ceremonies at the Apollo Theater in Harlem, won awards for theatrical set design, and appeared in films including Mo' Better Blues, New Jack City, and The Preacher's Wife. He passed away in 1997 at age 61.