"He can detach his spine to escape." Holy cow, talk about a burn.

Please get well Chris. Don’t exhaust or stress yourself and if you need to take a break me and many others will understand.

A strange comic caricature has got to be Erik Larsen adding Johnny Redbeard to Savage Dragon as a recurring villain, whose power was to make derivative versions of preexisting characters. This was back when Image was getting a ton of crap from several comic pros. And Larsen wasn't shy about saying it was based on John Byrne. Larsen and Byrne snarked at each other for years. A few years later Johnny Redbeard showed up again in Dragon as a revamp who was mostly just a giant head called the Creator, who again just made derivative versions of preexisting characters, that Dragon beat the crap out of.

So basically this is the adult version of High School me drawing/writing unflattering or concerning things of my enemies and least-favorite teachers.

Negative caricatures of colleagues in their own books is so unprofessional. As for poor old Roy Thomas, he was a fanboy turned office gopher, and eventually took over all Stan's books and carried forward Stan's style. Sycophant would be a mean term for Roy given his general enthusiasm and good will. But I suppose any one who takes the role of Editor in Chief, including Jim Shooter, is going to inevitably rub someone the wrong way for good or ill. As for your depression, I can totally relate. I've been dealing with severe depression for the last two years and somedays I don't know what to do. But its great seeing your videos because I feel like there's someone else out there I can relate to and share your interests. So keep on doing what you love and try to find positive distractions from the negative thoughts that creep in. I'm sure I speak for everyone when I say we're not going anywhere. So if you need a break, or a little longer between videos, do it. Look after number one because if you don't, we'll all be yelling at you to do it anyway. Hope you see the sunrise soon. I know its hard. Best from Maryland.

The word is a crazy place right now so your mental health and self care comes first. Take care of you. Love the content as always

Hope you're doing well, Chris Don't force yourself Just take a break when you need it

Chris -- I was going through a tough period in my life at the end of 2018. My marriage was over, I was separated from my family, and I was struggling with depression. During that period, I discovered your channel. Binging episodes of ComicTropes got me through some rough nights. I want you to know how grateful I am for what you've done for me -- though I know you had no idea that you were doing it. I know how hard it is to keep moving when you're struggling with depression, so try not to worry about us, your viewers. We want you to take care of YOU. If that means that you're not able to do as many videos, well, that's okay. You're awesome -- don't forget that.

Feel better, man! One of my favorites is “Johnny Redbeard.” He was Erik Larsen’s swipe at John Byrne in “Savage Dragon.” Gave people superpowers and radically altered their lives, but the abandoned them once he grew bored with them. “The Nixed Men.”

We stan Chris, life is not easy right now, for some more than others. My heart goes out to you, keep being you

Chris, you must know that your work brings joy to all of us comic book lovers, and we treasure everytime that bell notify us that you have uploaded something new, you are original and you do valuable work for the comic world. We live in very depressing times and its getting harder and harder to leave bed each morning and find motivation to make the most of our day, believe me I know. But we must keep in mind that this fight will bring us a great reward and make us apreciate more what we had in simpler times. Keep doing what you love Chris, even if you can't do it has often has you would like, because even you realease a video once a month we'd still love you and what you do for all of us. And never stop reading comics..

My first remembrance of a self insert was Jack and Stan getting stopped trying to get into the wedding of Reed Richards and Susan Storm.

Depression is a hard illness to manage, Chris. Don't feel guilty or beat yourself up about the slower pace. Your content is always fantastic and I know your entire fanbase is ride or die with ya.

Hey Chris, don’t feel guilty or anything. It happens to the best of us and I hope you feel better soon. Your content helps me and the community more then you know.

Given the historical precedent, genuinely surprised Neil Gaimen hasn’t done a similar thing in the Sandman books, given his history with Todd Mcfarline

If co workers could draw, I'd guarantee i would see much much caricatures of people i know.

Paul Grist poked some gentle fun at Alan Moore in the pages of Jack Staff when he introduced Morlan the Mystic.

I remember when the F-men issue came out. The owner of my LCS from way back pointed it out to me, and I laughed my arse off reading it.

*expected the Jim Shooter parody in Legends, leaves satisfied*

There was a Kirby bio comics recently, which touches on Kirby being annoyed by Thomas and basing a few characters on him. My favorite caricature is probably Eightball's Doctor Infinity.

Don't care about getting slower Chris. I feel you, as many of us, got a lot of mental health issues because of the Pandemic or the ones we had before got worse. Thanks for all the job you do. A hug from Chile :)

You've done it again Chris, I'm excited to see this one. I know you've been struggling recently with depression and I just want to say I have been there as well. Keep your head up and keep making great content! Or don't, take a break if you have to. Take care of yourself!

Hey man, don't worry about the video schedule, we love your content nonetheless, this is a great channel and anything you do will be awsome, fight that depression and recover

As someone who's been out of work since COVID and has had trouble finding work currently your videos bring joy to a tough couple of months. Take your time, thank you for your dedication and being honest.

We're all living in hard times. take it one day at a time. For the last 20 years or so I've make my living off of booking bands and running night clubs, so except for my wifes unemployment and the few dollars I make DJing at KEXP I've been unemployed since March. I tell myself over and over again - one day at a time, one step at a time, one breathe at a time. We're living in depressing times, but the only thing constant about life is change, so things will change. Ya just gotta wait it out. Peace to you.

Hey Chris, I wanted to let you know that your show helped me when I was at my lowest point. I came home exhausted and defeated and there was no one else I could hear talk but your voice in your videos. Comic tropes is such a comforting thing to binge. Know you will never be thought of badly for taking things easier.

I second the emotion that you're not alone with your depression. Last weekend I visited my mum and just before leaving on Monday morning I had a terrible breakdown. I'd be lying if I said I don't look forward to seeing much more great content from you, but take your time if you need it. Your health is the most important thing and everything else is secondary!

Chris, I found your channel during perhaps the darkest time of my life. It's been a great comfort, and as a comics creator myself, I got to learn everything from history to storytelling on top of the sheer fun. These are exceptional times, and you make exceptional work, so while I hope you can work to your heart's content, I hope your heart *is content*. Take your time. Thank you for opening up; it does satiate the curiosity of how you've been during these vicissitudes. PS: Your interviews are fantastic. Plus, it's neat to see something intimate worth drinking coffee to, as opposed to 2-minute ambushes at their convention tables.

Hey man it's a hard time. I found your channel in the before-times, and I've since binged through every single episode of Comic Tropes. Upload as often as you're able and don't push yourself! I feel you.

A brief cameo in the Beano!!! That is such an honour - the most popular comic in the UK for decades. That is really something to be proud of.

Take the time you need to take to get right brother. I’m in the same boat but thanks to therapy and help I’ve been able to keep my ship from listing. I hope the same for you my friend, please take care and continue to be the thoughtful and kind person your fans know you to be. You’re never alone friend!

Hey Chris, I suffer from severe depression as well. My passion of choice is writing and I've published a couple of novels but lately, even though I have more passion than I can describe, my depression gets the best of me. It steals my joy and keeps me down. It's a miracle if I can write a page a day. Anyways, I appreciate your transparency. Hang in there friend!

Did Stan Lee wear a toupee in his later years? It's so weird seeing him bald in his youth actually made him look older.

Speaking as a professional caricaturist and comic artist, inserting a likeness is an entirely different kind of challenge. It's very difficult to speak to some of the motivations. I expect that while the office politics of the work undoubtedly comes into play but a lot of respect and possible affection can't be discounted. I generally don't draw folks I don't like but I've inserted friends into some rather dire situations too :) I'm sure some of those caricatured saw their appearances as a kind of cool badge of honor. Have a great day! I feel your depression in this weighty atmosphere and share the struggle. I appreciate you putting out these excellent videos as you can :) I'll have to try to send some of my own fan art caricature to hopefully add a bright spot to one of your days. Stay well!

I love ur content soo much man I start reading comics because of u

Greetings from Japan, Chris!

The "Kenny Who?" strip in Judge Dredd was a pretty biting satire on the comic industry in the 1980s. The artist, Cam Kennedy made a caricature of himself in that one. I really look forward to your videos Chris, but your own health comes first. Take care and know that what you do is appreciated.

I think the best (and most lovingly thought-out) was "Wolfman Marv" in Unamerican Gladiators, a Lobo 4-shot, who bears an odd resemblance to Wolverine...But you do what you have to Boo. You've brought me a lot of joy with your channel, and you deserve to get the same joy out of making episodes as you used to. Take the time you need- your fans will wait.

"Detach his spine to escape" That's pretty good, no lie.

Hey man, you're great. A lot of us are dealing with depression, even more so this year for sure. With Winter coming, it gets worse too because of the weather. We're about the same age and I notice this with a lot of my friends. I think we don't realize we are ever changing and sometimes we think that the way we are at certain points in life are the way we are always going to be, and it's simply not true. After a friend kind sorta stabbed me in the back to get with a girl (some things never change) I finally gave in talked to a "grief councilor" lemme tell ya, best decision ever. Talking out loud a lot really helped me untie a mental knot. And professional or not, it's always good to talk so you should throw that update in there whenever ya like. You're a good guy Chris.

Ugh. That Mafalda in the fan arts hits hard now. Descansa en paz, Quino.

Thanks for highlighting aspects of the comic book industry that I never would've found out about otherwise

I read somewhere that Jasper Sitwell, another Kirby creation, with his eagerness to please his elders and encyclopaedic knowledge of obscure trivia, was also a caricature of the young Roy Thomas when he first started at Marvel.

Hey Chris, I just wanted to let you know that your videos are always the highlight of me and my friend's day. We're always quoting your vids to each other and appreciate all the thought and work you put into them. I just wanted to send some positivity back at you for all the positivity you put out for us viewers. Take care of yourself and I hope knowing your videos make a lot of people smile can help. I know depression can just weigh a person down outta nowhere and burn you out but we all really appreciate the energy you put forth. You're awesome.

Oh Chris, I'm always ready for you!

This is a good one! I did not have any idea why there was Captain Thundersword in Secret Wars II!! It was one of the weirdest things to see in comics and I had no context back in the 80s.

Chris, buddy, please. You've got to take some time for yourself. Take a break from the channel if need be. We appreciate you and we will wait for you while you take some time for yourself. This channel is amazing and we're not going anywhere.

From an English point of view, that's a real honour to be featured in the Beano.

Bill sienkiewicz (SP) during the Demon Bear saga of New Mutants put in a caricature of Alfred Hitchcock as one of the doctors operating on Dani Moonstar along with someone else, a dark haired guy who i SWORE i recognized as SOMEONE famous but could never pinpoint just who it was....

Kirby was such a kickass man, always sticking it back.

Don't worry about it. Depression is hell. Your getting back. Keep keepin on. It's October 2021 now and your still putting out content. Love your show. Just found it recently. We have to be right with ourselves before we can get right with others.

I'm a bit late to the party on this one but what a fun, surreal video. I remember the first time I really got a dose of comic self-parody in issue #176 of Fantastic Four. The Impossible Man reappears and wreaks havok at the Marvel offices where we see Stan Lee, Jack Kirby, Roy Thomas, John Verpoorten, and others. So much fun. At age 9, I was just about cognizant enough to get the jokes. On a serious note, Chris, if bouts of depression and exhaustion are your biggest obstacles, then you are doing GREAT. Anyone who's made it through 2020 and 2021 with their jobs and sanity intact is WINNING! You are a friendly, affable, pleasant, comforting presence online and that counts for a lot. We, your subscribers, want you to be well and happy. Thanks for all you do.

Roy Thomas was complicit in Lee's thorough screwing over of Kirby. To this day he lies and affirms Lee's lies that denied Jack's contributions.

I feel ya, Chris. This year as a whole has been a major blow to me, but watching your channel has been great. It’s revitalized my love for drawing and comics, and I can’t thank you enough for that

Chris take your time, we love you and we will accompany you in this crazy year. Those are good ideas and I trust we will see them eventually. Take care and see you in the funny papers.

as someone who suffers from severe depression, I absolutely understand. you take as much time as you need to feel better, Chris. you do not owe us the show. hope you feel better soon!

I don't comment often but as a fan I do want to thank you for your videos, cause the topics and passion in them really do make me smile as well as help out some of the comic creators i share them with. If you need time to rest, recharge or try new directions I, and I'm sure the other fans, will be happy to follow what you wanna do going forward. Depression has been super sucky for a lot of people this year after all and something a lot of the comic creator communities have been very aware of; so I'm glad there's an open discussion about burnout/mental health issues among creators on YT too. On a lighter note: This video made me think warmly of how the close knit webcomic creators communities I'm apart of are now drawing positive cameos of others character/creators etc in their own works to show LOVE for others. Amazing how a creative industry can change attitudes so quickly these days

I would love it if you did an video talking about the history of The Beano and other British comic magazines, especially since I'm from Britain myself!

As a guy that likes comics but never got around to read most of them due to not having the resources to do so, you bring me so much joy in terms of stuff I'm interested and don't know much about. I can tell you that any amount of work you do and you put into making these videos is worth it cause you can feel this warmth and passion into the topics and history that I couldn't find in similar channels, and trust me I've checked. I know that having depression is not as easy as being told that you matter, and I do personally know that, but I also know that it might help for you to know that we all keep coming back because of you and the special touch you put into every video.

Chris, if you see this then know that sometimes I curl up in bed depressed, not wanting interaction with anyone and suddenly a video from you pops up and I find myself forgetting my troubles etc and it really gives me a little lift. Love your vids, totally understand what you're going through and want you to know you're not unique in whats affecting you. Stay strong for yourself and us bud. We are all with you and all in this together.

Dude, as someone who also deals with depression I understand where you are coming from. I also know there is really nothing we can say or do other than the fact that, I personally appreciate what you do. I can't speak for everyone but I know a lot of us look to you, and respect you for what you do. Some days are harder than others and some episodes of depression last longer than others. I personally just wanna give you thanks for being strong and pushing on even when it seems impossible. Be safe be healthy, physically and emotionally and mentally

All the best you, Chris. Your show is a welcome relief, and there's no obligation to publish them any faster than you can. On the subject of caricatures, I think Stan Lee was made into a sleazy Hugh Heffner-type character who tried to get topless pictures of She-Hulk in a Fantastic Four issue.

Thank you for what you do, Chris. I'll join everyone else in wishing you all the best... and PLEASE don't worry about the frequency. I'm guessing 99.9% of all your subscribers want you at your best... If we have to wait for that, no problem... what we get is Grade A stuff... so you should be really happy to know that I (and I'm guessing everyone else) LOVE the work you do. Yelling at a painter to finish a painting never really works well. The best work is done when the artist "feels it"... Your best work is done when you're taking care of yourself. Depression is nothing to mess around with. It's nothing to be embarrassed by. It just is. Know that we're all pulling for you... and we're looking forward to whatever you can do on your timetable. We'll be there. Cheers!

Your openness and honesty is very generous. I believe any frustration expressed at delays is only a testament to how good, enjoyable and informative the shows are. Take care of yourself, talk to friends and/or professionals. Remember no one wants to add stress or worry onto your shoulders just for our entertainment. Take the time you need, anyone worthwhile worrying about will be here and avid to hear more whenever you are ready.

A great history that I think deserves its own episode is Doctor Thirteen Architecture and Morality by Brian Azzarello and Cliff Chiang, which also features both Grant Morrison and Geoff Johns as somewhat villains while criticizing the whole structure of redifining comics and comic book universes through reboots, revamps and reimaginings. Really good stuff.

I also suffer from depression and its hard to keep it going sometimes. I love your work and it kept me going during those unsure months when I was furloughed from work. I want to thank you for that. Take care of yourself and however much content you can produce will be appreciated. This is one of my favorite channels.

I really do appreciate the work you do Chris. I've watched several other KZfaq videos about the world of comics but yours are the best. I bought my first comic about the time JFK was getting used to putting his feet on the desk in the Oval Office so I've been a fan for a while now. Your overall emphasis on comic history, its artists and writers is right in my wheelhouse. Your love of the industry comes through and your knowledge and research is impressive. Keep fighting through that depression because you've got a lot of friends on the other side of the screen rooting for you. Like my old art teacher used to say, "Keep hanging in there like a hair in a biscuit. "

Fantastic episode :-) Never knew Kirby had such a wickedly funny cruel streak. Also, Byrne would later satirize Len Wein in Sensational She-Hulk for no good reason, having him show up as the goofy space giant Big Enil Wen who really loves teddybears.

So what you’re saying is Jack Kirby was a roast master supreme. Damn some of these digs had me going, especially the detachable spine hahah

Just remember that life is more important than Internet videos, Chris. Depression is a bastard to overcome, and your hard work is evident in the channel. These videos can never be taken away, but your well-being and health can be if they aren't cared for.

These are difficult times. Depression is going to be a problem for a great many people. The fact that you continue on is a source of inspiration for many. Take care of yourself. If that means a slower pace, then so be it. There is no show without you. Thank you very much.

I'd recommend checking out "Hey Kids, Comics" by Howard Chaykin and "Inkspot" by Ted McKeever. Both are satires on the comics industry with clear and not so clear caricatures of famous comics vets. Also, for what it's worth, I remember an old interview with Mark Evanier in Comics Journal where he said something like, "I don't think John Byrne really believes this 'I'm happy to be a cog' nonsense, a cog is the most replaceable thing in the world." They included a footnote, "This was recorded right before John quit the FF, Starbrand, and Marvel Comics."

I'm not surprised at the name calling between creators considering the comic community at large is very tribal, I really get tiered of angry DC and angry Marvel fans. That said, really enjoy your channel Chris. If it takes a little more time to create a episode, I'm more than happy to wait for the quality you put into every video. Think most of us are feeling a bit spent this year to put it mildly and we all need to practice a little self care to keep going.

Since I came to across your channel, years ago, the content stroke me as sincere, deep and passionate. I'm always awed by how much you know about comics and how well you do your research, it is truly a joy to watch. That being said, I belive everyone is ready to bear with you through whatever you have going on. We get you're not just a content creator, but a real person with a real life. Take care of yourself, because we, want to see you well and health. No need to pump out content while suffering. Take your time and take care.

I appreciate your honesty about depression. You are definitely not alone in how you feel but do what you can when you can. We’ll be here.

Chris we love you man! I battle with depression as well and it’s tough putting on a smile when you don’t want too. I applauded your courage to be able to sit in front of a camera and put out content for all of us. I don’t get to watch the videos but I listen to them while I’m at work. I’m probably not like most of your fans. I operate heavy equipment for a living, and live in the mountains of North Carolina. I just found your channel a few months ago so I’m still trying to catch up. Keep up the great work, and stay strong!

Keep up the good work, man. As for caricatures, in Youngblood #2, Rob Liefeld introduced a character called Kirby, a gun-toting muscle monster. I suppose it was meant as a homage, but it's just grotesque.

The world needs more positivity right now and the world needs more people like you. Take care, Chris.

As long as you eventually come back take a break for however long you want! Always looking forward to episodes but your health comes first.

As someone who deals with depression, I wish nothing but the best for your spiritual, mental and physical health. I love your channel and your videos. If you have to walk away from everything or stop what you’re doing to take care of yourself than please do so. Nothing is more important than your well being. I’m pretty sure your fans will have your back, whatever you decide. Take care and God bless you and your loved ones.

chris, just wanted to let you know that you bring TREMENDOUS joy to this viewer, and, i'm sure, the entire viewership at large of your show. please do not let the depression get the better for you. if it's any consolation to you, know that i myself am an entertainment creator who knows quite a few fellow creators in the entire expanse of the industry, MANY whom are sharing in your current state of malaise. i have been tempted to fall in that rut myself time and again with only my innate optimism and love of all the arts i participate in to keep me going. a large part of that love emanates from programs like yours. i learned a few years back that realizing that there are so many talented fellows of ours out there and helping them achieve getting their art out there can be as wonderful a thing as getting your own art out there, too, and hoping you realize just how much you inspire all of us out here who watch your show. forge on, noble fellow! do so, and all things good will stand! :)

Chris,as a former combat vet(4 tours of duty in Iraq)diagnosed with severe ptsd,I too have been battling depression,just continue to get rest and do things that bring you joy.And as far as being tired all the time,you may have to change your diet and exercise if you;re not doing it already.

Video game developers do this too, either hiding rants about coworkers & executives in code or hiding parodies in NPCs or easter eggs.

I'll watch the episodes as they come out, at whatever rate. You're still doing great content and I'm liking the variety. Most importantly, take care of yourself.

You are not alone with suffering with the curse of depression,I appreciate your honesty. We enjoy your videos and your channel is my pick up. Do not put pressure yourself, your mental health is of upmost importance. Never apologise for suffering. Take it essy, Chris.

I’m sorry that you’ve been going through this Chris. This year has been nothing but one toxic landfill and our mental health is being crushed by it all. If you want to ever take a break, don’t believe that you must put a video out every week or so. The fans that truly love your work and your insights on comics will wait for you and will welcome you back with open arms. Be safe and be healthy mate.

I also have depression and something you said hit close to home, so I wanted to say: You own us nothing. There's no 'I should'. Just take care of yourself first and foremost. Your content is wonderful, and I know it's not only me that don't mind waiting a little bit more. Specially for your health. Take care!

Your work has been one of the things I have looked forward to during these strange times. Thank you.

Thanks for the end bit Chris. As a melancholy person who has a lifelong relationship with depression I can understand. While I often lose the struggle to create, I do very much appreciate your channel. Best wishes and thank you ...also, this was a really fun idea for an episode. Very well done!

I don't usually comment, but I watch many of your videos and I was moved. first, thanks for sharing your situation with us, total strangers, I can see you lifted like a ton of bricks from your shoulders by doing that. Keeping the pace up is hard and keeping it under these extreme circumstances (being furloughed, pandemic, current mood, even the political situation) wears oneself out with extreme prejudice (hehe, Liefeld pun!). anyway, I think that some of the things I have learnt from these past months, are that we need to focus in one selves, and this may sound harsh, but you don't owe us anything, so take care of your feelings and then feel free to keep doing these videos. There is nothing worst than that feeling of sensing that the thing you do for love is becoming a burden, so, find your own way to stop and breathe. We'll here every time you post a video. Hugs, bro!

Your work is world class and greatly appreciated. As someone who has dealt with depression, I totally understand your situation. Stay strong, thanks for sharing, and keep doing the things that center you. The world affairs, and the situation here in the US, are mental health deflating. I get you. Take care of yourself.

i 100% feel for you, bro. For me, it helps to make a strict schedule. I make myself go through all the steps of a routine and it helps me get through the harder things, even if they usually would be things that make me happy. Hoping for the best for you!

Hey, I appreciate you and your opening up about your depression. Thank you for all your work on the channel, and I hope you find yourself in a better space soon.

Buddy, take a break if you need to take a break! Don’t think we will stop returning if you aren’t posting content constantly. We will understand! As much as I love the show, and love to see new episodes, your mental health has to come first man. You’re a great guy and an awesome creator. Takes. Lot of guts to be in the public eye and admit you are struggling with something. Very glad to see you aren’t trying to keep it all bottled up inside. We love you brother.

Been subscribed to you since last year, I always appreciate the interesting angles you take on comics and the stories behind the panels

Whatever style or amount of episodes you want/need to put out, we'll enjoy. This is a little community you've helped create and the main thing to us is your wellness. So, whatever you need to do that helps you look after yourself, we support. Good thoughts and well wishes sent your way, Chris.

As someone who is also dealing with depression, I understand how you feel. Take your time making episodes, we'll wait

Hey man. I appreciate any shows you do get out. Always informative and always fun. Thanks.

Mannnn. You have no idea how many people you helped during the Covid crisis, at least me. I spent months watching all your shows and it really helped me through this time. Don't despair my friend, you can tackle this. Take care of yourself. Lots of love and good vibes

That spine removal escape is so good. Such an unsubtle attack. Lol