A legend in British comics passed away today.
For me, he was the definitive Dredd artist of the 80’s. But he was more than that…Ron’s career spanned almost 50 years.
Ron started his career as an animator and when the studio went bust he tried his hand at comic strip work. Animations loss was the UK comics industries gain.
He worked for DC Thomson, IPC/Feetway and then Marvel UK as well as illustrating many record album covers and working with advertising agencies.
He created so many characters…Nick Jolly and King Cobra being two standouts in his work for DC Thomson.
I had the pleasure of interviewing Ron back in 2013. He was one of my idols and he was a total gentleman. As far as I know…this two part interview was the last or even only Audio interview of the great man.
Have a listen. I’ve included the links below.
Now…if you excuse me, I have lots of Warlord, Hotspur, Victor and 2000ad to go through to marvel at his work again.
Rest in Peace Ron. You won’t be forgotten.
ECBT2000ad Ron Smith Interview: Part 1
ECBT2000ad Ron Smith Interview: Part 2
Ron Smith was not my favourite artist but re-reading his stuff recently has blown me away as to what a workhorse and legend he truly was in spite of my ignorance. He was one of those rare artists who could do funny and serious in the same strip and Ron was around at a time when the comic needed a man like that. A mate of mine has just died suddenly too so I’ll be raising two glasses tonight. Mr Smith, you can rest easy knowing your work will live on as iconic.
One of the greats; I guess his alarm clock finally rang.