Ernie Colón (July 13, 1931 – August 8, 2019) was an American cartoonist and illustrator celebrated for a long career across multiple comic-book genres. He produced work ranging from lighthearted children's comics to mature, politically conscious graphic non-fiction. Early in his career he attracted attention for clear, expressive line work and a capacity to shift style to suit subject matter, contributing to both popular and niche titles in the industry. Colón drew comic books and related genres (genres and publications) throughout his life.

Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Colón later worked mainly in the United States publishing scene. His versatility allowed him to work on humorous, supernatural and adventure strips as well as mainstream superhero titles. He became known for balancing readable, accessible storytelling with enough detail to support dramatic or historical subjects when required.

Notable works

  • Arak, Son of Thunder — a fantasy-adventure series blending historical and mythic elements.
  • Amethyst, Princess of Gemworld — a fantasy superhero title notable for its colorful, imaginative settings.
  • Casper the Friendly Ghost and Richie Rich — work for popular children's comic franchises, including Richie Rich.
  • SpyCat and similar shorter pieces in genre anthologies.
  • The 9/11 Report: A Graphic Adaptation — a nonfiction graphic adaptation of an important report, created with writer Sid Jacobson and widely noted for bringing complex material to a broader audience.

Colón's career spans several decades and a range of publishers. He is remembered for marrying economical storytelling with a pliant draftsmanship that could be playful or solemn depending on the assignment. His graphic adaptation work helped demonstrate how comics could serve as a medium for explaining civic or historical documents to general readers.

Colón died on August 8, 2019 in Huntington, New York from colorectal cancer at the age of 88. His body of work remains referenced by creators and historians interested in the crossover between genre comics and serious nonfiction presentation.