Picture an American storyteller who turned the Hulk into a complex antihero and spun witty tales of knights and spies—meet Peter David! Born in 1956, this self-proclaimed 'Writer of Stuff' has left a vibrant mark on comics, novels, and screenplays with his sharp humor, pop culture nods, and bold social commentary. From Marvel’s green giant to his own fantastical worlds, David’s work is a treasure trove for fans of storytelling with heart and edge.
The Making of Peter David
Born in Fort Meade, Maryland, Peter Allen David grew up in Bloomfield and Verona, New Jersey, where his early love for comics faded in his teens—until a fateful encounter with Superman vs. Spider-Man reignited his passion. A journalism graduate from New York University, David landed at Marvel Comics as a sales manager, but his storytelling itch led him to pitch scripts. His big break came in 1985 with Spider-Man’s 'Death of Jean DeWolff,' a gritty tale that showcased his knack for emotional depth and launched his writing career.
Peter David’s Unforgettable Stories
David’s 12-year run on The Incredible Hulk (1987–1998) redefined the character, introducing the cunning gray Hulk, Joe Fixit, and the intelligent Professor Hulk, blending raw power with psychological complexity. His creation of Spider-Man 2099 in 1992 birthed a futuristic hero, Miguel O’Hara, whose enduring popularity fueled a 2018 animated film. In novels, David’s Sir Apropos of Nothing series delivers a satirical twist on fantasy, following a roguish antihero with biting wit. His Star Trek: New Frontier books, a fan-favorite series, explore uncharted space with original characters, showcasing his ability to expand beloved universes. David’s style—packed with humor, metafiction, and real-world issues—makes every story a dynamic ride.
His television work, including co-creating Nickelodeon’s Space Cases and writing for Babylon 5, brings his signature ensemble dynamics to the screen. Whether crafting comics like X-Factor or penning novelizations, David weaves character-driven narratives that resonate across genres, earning him a loyal following.
Why Peter David Matters
Peter David’s impact lies in his ability to humanize icons and create new ones, blending entertainment with social insight. His progressive views, shaped by personal experiences like defending his gay best friend in high school, shine through in works tackling identity and justice. Awards like the 1992 Eisner for The Incredible Hulk and a global fanbase reflect his influence. Despite health challenges, including a 2012 stroke, David’s resilience and prolific output continue to inspire aspiring writers and readers alike.
About Peter David
- Born: September 23, 1956, Fort Meade, Maryland
- Key Works: The Incredible Hulk, Spider-Man 2099, Sir Apropos of Nothing, Star Trek: New Frontier
- Awards: 1992 Eisner Award, 1994 Golden Duck Award, 2011 Scribe Award Grandmaster
- Fun Fact: He wrote the satirical Potato Moon, poking fun at Twilight fan fiction!
Ready to dive into Peter David’s world? Grab Sir Apropos of Nothing or revisit his Hulk run for a dose of wit and wonder!