Tim Sale has died aged 66 after being admitted to hospital with severe health issues earlier in the week.
The legendary comic book artist's death was confirmed on social media after his Twitter account changed its name to 'Remembering Tim Sale'.
He was best known for his work on the likes of Batman: Legends of the Dark Knight Halloween Specials, Batman: The Long Halloween, Batman: Dark Victor and influenced generations of creatives.
A post on his page on Thursday read: "It's with a heavy sadness that I must announce that Tim Sale passed away today.
"He passed with the love of his life beside him, and loves all of you very much. Please share photos and stories under this post, as we hope to share them with the community."
The post followed a comment by DC Chief Creative Officer and Publisher Jim Lee earlier in the week stating how the artist wasn't well.
He wrote: "I regret to share the very sad news that the legendary artist Tim Sale has been admitted to the hospital with severe health issues."
Tim's partner Susan Bailey replied to the post saying she was reading the replies to him to "brighten his day" and explained how he was in "good spirits, despite everything".
Fans and organisations were quick to take to social media too following the sad news.
Marvel Entertainment paid tribute to Tim, writing: "Tim Sale was a legendary artist who created comic book masterpieces across and beyond the industry. At Marvel, his Color series became stunning classics and remain just a glimpse at his acclaimed legacy.
"We mourn his loss today, and our thoughts are with his family & loved ones."
DC also wrote a message of condolence, saying: "Tim Sale was an incredible artist, whose take on iconic characters had real human depth, and his groundbreaking page designs changed the way an entire generation thinks about comic book storytelling.
"Our condolences go to Tim’s family and friends. He will be deeply missed."
And Mondo wrote: "Rest in peace to the legendary Tim Sale. His art is a constant inspiration and his contribution to comics cannot be overstated."
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