Controversial Dilbert Cartoonist Scott Adams Dies Aged 68
9 hours ago
Paul Glynn, Culture Reporter
Scott Adams, the renowned cartoonist behind the iconic comic strip Dilbert, has passed away at the age of 68 after battling cancer. His ex-wife, Shelly Miles, announced his death during a live stream of his podcast, Real Coffee with Scott Adams.
Career Highlights of Scott Adams
– Dilbert, first published in 1989, became a cultural phenomenon, appearing in over 2,000 newspapers across 65 countries.
– The comic strip centers on a competent yet frustrated engineer and his chaotic workplace, capturing the essence of corporate life.
– Adams also authored best-selling books, including Dilbert Future and The Joy of Work, which further solidified his influence in the comedy genre.
– The character’s popularity extended to animated series and video games, showcasing the broad appeal of his work.
Controversy Surrounding Adams
Despite his success, 2023 marked a turning point for Adams when several newspapers, including the Washington Post, canceled the Dilbert comic after he made inflammatory remarks regarding race. During a discussion based on a conservative poll, he labeled Black Americans a hate group and suggested that White Americans get the hell away from Black people.
Adams later defended his statements as hyperbole meant to provoke thought, claiming that media narratives distorted the context of his comments. This controversy raised questions about race relations in America and the line between satire and offense.
Public Reactions
In the wake of his death, U.S. President Donald Trump paid tribute to Adams on Truth Social, stating: Sadly, the Great Influencer, Scott Adams, has passed away. He was a fantastic guy, who liked and respected me when it wasn’t fashionable to do so. He bravely fought a long battle against a terrible disease.
A visibly emotional Shelly shared Adams’ message during the podcast: I had an amazing life, I gave it everything I had. If I got any benefits from my work, I’m asking that you pay it forward as best as you can. That’s the legacy I want. Be useful, and please know I loved you all to the very end.
Legacy and Final Years
Adams also explored self-help through various books, including How to Fail at Almost Everything and Still Win Big, Win Bigly, Loserthink, and Reframe Your Brain. His unique perspectives often blended humor with practical advice.
In 1997, he received the National Cartoonists Society’s Reuben Award for his work on Dilbert, along with the Newspaper Comic Strip Award. As he faced the final stages of prostate cancer, which he had disclosed in May 2025, Adams received end-of-life care at home. Earlier this year, he shared updates with listeners about his condition, indicating limited chances for recovery and ongoing health struggles.
Conclusion
Scott Adams embodied a complex blend of humor, controversy, and insight. His death resonates deeply within cultural discussions about race, corporate life, and the role of satire. As we remember his contributions, his final words serve as a poignant reminder to make a positive impact: Be useful. Adams will undoubtedly be remembered not only for his Dilbert cartoons but for the conversations—both inspiring and contentious—that his work sparked throughout his career.