Unsung Ink: Sam Kieth | SIDEBAR FOREVER

Unsung Ink: Sam Kieth | SIDEBAR FOREVER

From Sidebar Forever by Hosted by Dwight, Swain & Adrian

March 26, 2026 · 46 min · Episode 212

About this episode

This episode explores the unique contributions of Sam Kieth to the world of comics, reflecting on his legacy and influential works.

What happens when superhero comics get weird—like, really weird? On this episode of "Unsung Ink," we explore the world of Sam Kieth, a creator who bent anatomy, tone, and storytelling into something wholly his own. We dig into Kieth’s early days in comics, from his inking work on Mage with Matt Wagner to his memorable contributions to The Sandman alongside Neil Gaiman. From there, we discuss his underrated run on Marvel Comics Presents with Peter David—work that helped define his elastic, expressive style. Of course, no conversation about Kieth is complete without diving into his creator-owned projects, including The Maxx, Zero Girl, and Four Women—books that blended psychological depth and surrealism in ways that still feel ahead of their time. Following his passing on March 15 at the age of 63, we take a moment to reflect on Sam Kieth's legacy—a true original, and a voice in comics that can’t be replicated. Rest in peace.

Topics covered

  • Sam Kieth
  • superhero comics
  • The Sandman
  • creator-owned projects
  • The Maxx
  • Zero Girl
  • Four Women

Keywords

  • comics
  • art
  • storytelling
  • legacy

Mentioned in this episode

Products: Mage, The Sandman, Marvel Comics Presents, The Maxx, Zero Girl, Four Women

Books & works: Unsung Ink, The Sandman, Zero Girl, Four Women

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