James O'Barr is an American comic book artist and writer, best known for creating the comic series The Crow. Born on January 1, 1960, in Detroit, Michigan, O'Barr began working on The Crow in the early 1980s as a way to cope with the loss of his fiancée. The series, which combines elements of fantasy and horror, gained a cult following and was later adapted into a successful film in 1994. O'Barr's work is characterized by its dark themes and emotional depth, often exploring topics such as love, loss, and revenge. His artistic style features detailed illustrations and a gothic aesthetic, which have influenced many other creators in the comic book industry.