Jim Simon is a multifaceted figure in the world of comics, serving as a writer, publisher, and historian. As the son of Joe Simon, co-creator of Captain America, Jim has carved his own path in the industry, blending independent creativity with a deep respect for comic book history.
Born in New York, Jim Simon was immersed in the comic book world from a young age. Working in his father’s studio, he interacted with industry legends like Carmine Infantino and Jack Davis. These experiences provided him with a unique perspective on the evolution of comics. He later earned a bachelor’s degree in literature from SUNY Stony Brook and studied copywriting at the School of Visual Arts in New York City.
His creation of ShieldMaster and Spyder-Fly highlights Jim Simon’s independent ventures. ShieldMaster debuted in 1998 and was later featured in publications by Organic Comix, a firm known for its respect for creator-owned projects. In 2011, Organic Comix published the graphic novel “ShieldMaster: L’envol du phoenix,” with an English edition released in 2015. In 2024, Simon Studios, with his son, Jesse, released “ShieldMaster: Blast to the Past,” featuring contributions from Tom Morgan and Bob Layton, and an introduction by Alan Moore. In early 2025, Simon released “KillShott” and “In Pursuit of Dead-Bolt,” both of which he created and wrote.
While Jim Simon has a strong presence in independent publishing, he has also collaborated with major publishers:
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Marvel Comics: In 1991, Simon contributed to “The Kid Cowboys of Boys’ Ranch,” a hardcover edition published by Marvel Comics.
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DC Comics: In the late 1960s and early 1970s, Simon contributed story and character concepts to titles such as “Brother Power the Geek,” “Prez,” “The Outsiders,” and “The Sandman,” developed at his father’s studio and published by DC Comics. -
Titan Books: Simon contributed essays to “The Simon and Kirby Superheroes,” a 2010 anthology highlighting the superhero creations of Joe Simon and Jack Kirby from the 1940s and 1950s.
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Abrams ComicArts: In 2014, Simon collaborated on “The Art of the Simon and Kirby Studio,” a book exploring the artwork and operations of the Simon and Kirby studio in the late 1940s and early 1950s.
Jim Simon has made significant contributions to documenting comic book history:
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The Comic Book Makers: Co-authored with his father, this memoir provides an insider’s view of the comic book industry’s early years.
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Astounding, Mysterious, Weird & True: Co-authored with Steven Brower, this book examines comic book artists’ contributions to pulp magazines.
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Essays and Interviews: Simon has written essays such as “I Remember Weird Mysteries” and has been interviewed on platforms like WNYC radio, discussing the significance of documenting comic book history.
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Jim Simon’s work bridges the gap between the Golden Age of comics and contemporary storytelling. Through his independent creations, collaborations with major publishers, and historical writings, he has enriched the comic book industry and preserved its legacy for future generations.
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