Comic Book Resources and others are reporting the death of classic comics artist John Severin.  The Marvel and EC artist, known for titles including “Two-Fisted Tales” and “The Incredible Hulk” was 90.  Severin was also a major contributor to “Cracked” and “MAD.”

Comics professionals responded to the news on Twitter.

“It was one of the highlights of my career to write pages he drew in Iron Fist,” wrote Ed Brubaker. “He was still great, still working, at 90.”

Artist Tony Moore related his childhood memories of Severin, and encouraged everyone to read the artist’s work on EC and MAD.

“Severin was one of my earliest favorites, picking up his stuff in Cracked as a kid,” wrote Tony Moore. “I’m so close to his work, i feel like i’ve lost family.”

“Astronaut Dad” artist Brent Schoonover also shared his reaction.

“RIP John Severin.  I’ll always have a stack of MAD magazines that you worked on and made me laugh like crazy,” Schoonover wrote.

A statement from the family has been released at The Beat.

- Matt Price

Happy Valentine’s Day to all of my Nerdage readers!

Archaia sent out a special Valentine’s Day card from the creators of “Mr. Murder is Dead” to celebrate the holiday.  It’s in the style of the paper Valentines that grade school kids cut out and share, but with a “Mr. Murder” twist.

Here’s a description of the graphic novel from Archaia:

Mr. Murder Is Dead is an original graphic novel first published by Archaia in September 2011. There’s been a murder—Mr. Murder is found dead! Old Gould Kane, long into his retirement as a top cop, looks to be the #1 suspect with a motive so deep and intense even Gould’s old partner suspects him. But the truth is Gould’s the only cop worth a damn to solve the cryptic case. The clues could lead Gould to a new and perhaps even greater profession in his twilight… as a very bad man. Mr. Murder is Dead is a “who didn’t do it” set in the fading world of Golden Age comic strips. A criminal’s lament to all things past, present and meaningless. Written by Victor Quinaz and illustrated by Brent Schoonover (Astronaut Dad). Published in partnership with Zachary Quinto (“Star Trek,” “Heroes”) and Before the Door.

Click past the cut for the Valentine’s Day card!

- Matt Price