James O' Barr

James O’Barr was born in Detroit, Michigan. His biological mother spent a great deal of time in jail, hospitals, and mental institutions. Due to her lifestyle choices, she bore children from different fathers as well. James spent much of his life as a youth in orphanages and foster care homes.

In his youth, James found it difficult to adapt to the constant change of being in different homes on a regular basis. At the age of 17 he struck out on his own and moved in with his girlfriend, Bethany. Bethany was James’ first love and the pain of losing her is the reason he would

… More come to write The Crow.

Many rumors have surrounded her tragic death. James was not present when Beth became the victim of the tragic accident that would take her life. She was walking down a sidewalk in Detroit, alone, when she was struck by the vehicle of a drunk driver. Beth’s father notified James of the accident via telephone and James rushed to the hospital. He was with Beth’s family when she died. There was nothing romantic about the way things happened as if often portrayed.

James joined the Marines in an effort to cope with his devastating loss. He was stationed in Germany and illustrated combat manuals for the military, but spent his time on leave in barroom brawls.

James received an early discharge after spending only two years in the military. He returned to the United States and intended to find and kill the driver of the van that took Beth’s life. His plan was thwarted when he discovered that the driver had already died of natural causes.

James had to find another way to channel his grief. This is what led to the creation of The Crow. The comic was originally published by Caliber Press. James’ inspiration for The Crow was music rather than other comics. James included lyrics by Joy Division and paid homage to Iggy Pop and The Cure. The Crow had a positive impact on the comic world by opening the door for books such as Sandman and Hellblazer.