Al Feldstein (October 24, 1925 – April 29, 2014) was an American writer, editor and artist whose career spanned comic-book fiction, magazine satire and later fine-art painting. He first gained prominence for his contributions to the influential EC Comics line and is widely remembered as the long-running editor of the satirical Mad magazine from the mid-1950s through the 1980s. After leaving publishing he concentrated on painting scenes of Western wildlife and landscapes.

Career and contributions

Feldstein began as a writer and artist for comic-book publishers at a time when the medium was expanding into a variety of genres. At EC Comics he wrote and illustrated many short stories in horror, science fiction and crime titles that are regarded as creative and technically accomplished for the field. In 1956 he took over editorial duties at Mad, guiding the magazine through decades of satire aimed at popular culture, politics and advertising. Under his editorship Mad broadened its readership and became a major outlet for parody and cartooning in America.

Style, editorial approach, and influence

As an editor Feldstein emphasized sharp writing, clear visual storytelling and a steady stream of topical humor. He commissioned and nurtured cartoonists and writers, maintaining Mad’s mix of single-page gags, parodies and illustrated features. His editorial voice favored accessible satire rather than overt campaigning, helping Mad shape American comedic sensibilities and influencing later generations of cartoonists, humorists and satirists.

Later life: painting and Montana

After retiring from magazine work in the mid-1980s, Feldstein turned to painting full time. He produced canvases that focused on Western wildlife, rural scenes and natural settings, showing a careful attention to composition and color. He lived for many years near Livingston, in Montana, where he worked as an artist and participated in regional exhibitions.

Legacy and notable facts

  • Feldstein is widely credited with stabilizing and popularizing Mad after its early years and with expanding its audience.
  • Before Mad, his writing and art for EC Comics helped establish the narrative and visual standards of mid‑20th‑century American comics.
  • Late in life he pursued painting professionally; his work is often associated with Western themes and wildlife.
  • He died April 29, 2014, at his home near Livingston, Montana. No specific cause was publicly released.
  • For basic biographical information see entries and retrospectives about Al Feldstein and the publications he influenced.