Scott Adams, the creator of the widely recognized comic strip “Dilbert,” passed away on October 24, 2023, at the age of 68. Adams had been battling prostate cancer for several years. His death was confirmed through a statement he had prepared, which was read by his ex-wife, Shelly Adams, during a livestream.
In the heartfelt announcement, Adams reflected on his life, stating, “I had an amazing life. I gave it everything I had.” Known for his sharp wit and keen observations of corporate culture, Adams launched “Dilbert” in 1989. The comic drew inspiration from his experiences as a bank teller and manager at Pacific Bell, where he humorously critiqued corporate jargon and the absurdities of middle management.
Over the years, “Dilbert” transformed from simple office sketches into a significant franchise, reaching a peak syndication of over 2,000 newspapers in 2013. In addition to the comic strip, Adams produced companion books and even a short-lived animated television series. He also ventured into product lines, including an ill-conceived burrito brand.
Controversy and Decline
In 2023, Adams faced significant backlash after making racially charged comments on his podcast. He referenced a controversial poll from Rasmussen Reports that indicated 53% of Black Americans agreed with the statement, “It’s OK to be white.” Adams referred to Black Americans as a “hate group” and advised white individuals to distance themselves from Black communities. Following these remarks, he lost more than half of his syndication contracts, marking a dramatic decline in his career.
This incident was not the first time Adams courted controversy. In 2006, he questioned the Holocaust death toll on his blog, and in 2011, he drew criticism for comments regarding societal treatment of women, comparing it to the treatment of children and the mentally disabled.
Despite the controversies, Adams remained a vocal supporter of former President Donald Trump. In October, he reflected on the personal and professional sacrifices he made for his political beliefs, stating, “I sacrificed everything. I sacrificed my social life. I sacrificed my career. I sacrificed my reputation. I may have sacrificed my health. And I did that because I believed it was worth it.”
Following his death, Trump praised Adams on the social media platform Truth Social, describing him as a “fantastic guy” who “will be truly missed.” He acknowledged Adams’s long battle with cancer and extended condolences to his family and friends.
A Legacy of Humor and Controversy
Scott Adams leaves behind a complex legacy marked by both humor and controversy. His ability to capture the nuances of corporate life resonated with many, making “Dilbert” a staple in office culture for decades. As the comic strip continues to be remembered, the discussions surrounding Adams’s controversial views will likely persist, reflecting the ongoing debates about free speech and the responsibilities of public figures.
With a career that spanned over three decades, Adams’s influence on comic culture and commentary on corporate America will not soon be forgotten. His life, as he stated, was indeed “amazing,” but it was also fraught with challenges that shaped his public persona.
