Today in Comics History, September 13: Happy birthday, Mike Grell!

Born on this day: comics writer/artist Mike Grell (Green Lantern, Green Arrow, Warlord, Superboy, Action Comics, Jon Sable: Freelance, Legion of Super-Heroes, Starslayer, and much more)! He co-created Jon Sable, Warlord, Dawnstar, the Calculator, Shado, and Tyroc (we won't hold that last one against you, Mike).


from 1st Issue Special #8 [Warlord] (DC, November 1975), self-portrait by Mike Grell



Grell's long runs on his issues of Warlord and Green Arrow are fantastic comics, and don't forget his creation Jon Sable, Freelance and co-creation Starslayer, two excellent First Comics titles!


from DC Special Blue Ribbon Digest #10 [Warlord] (DC, June 1981), text by Andrew Helfer, self-portrait by Mike Grell
But my personal favorite work of his is on Legion of Super-Heroes, where he not only updated the previous zeerust look of the 30th Century but dressed the Legionnaires in fantastic, often daring outfits!



from Superboy Starring the Legion of Super-Heroes #205 (DC, November 1974), cover art by Nick Cardy
In thanks, the Legion invited Mike (lower right) to Saturn Girl and Lightning Lad's wedding! (Also scripter Paul Levitz, lower left). Did they have Space Jordan Almonds at the reception, Mike?

from All-New Collectors' Edition #C-55 [Superboy and the Legion of Super-Heroes] (DC, March 1978), script by Paul Levitz, pencils by Mike Grell, inks by Vince Colletta, colors by Jerry Serpe, letters by Gaspar Saladino
(Click picture to Gim Allon-size)
We heartily wish you a happy birthday, Mike, and many grand Klordny Weeks to come!


from Direct Currents #15 (DC, March 1989)