Scott Adams, the influential cartoonist behind the acclaimed comic strip “Dilbert,” passed away at the age of 68 following a battle with metastatic prostate cancer. The announcement of his death was made on Tuesday via Adams’ YouTube channel, where he engaged with his audience through daily livestreams until just days before his passing.
Adams’ health struggles began to unfold publicly in May 2025, when he shared his diagnosis of Stage 4 prostate cancer, coinciding with former President Joe Biden’s own diagnosis of the same illness. “I have the same cancer Joe Biden has,” Adams remarked during his May 19, 2025, livestream, revealing that his condition had progressed to bone metastasis. He candidly explained the severity of his illness, stating, “If it’s localized… it’s 100% curable. But if it leaves your prostate and spreads… it is 100% not curable.” Adams continued to livestream from his hospital bed during radiation treatment and resumed his broadcasts from home, showcasing his determination to connect with followers despite his declining health.
Born on June 8, 1957, in Windham, New York, Adams developed an interest in cartoons at a young age. He graduated as valedictorian from Windham-Ashland-Jewett Central School and earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from Hartwick College. He later obtained a master’s in business administration from UC Berkeley. His early career included positions at Crocker National Bank and Pacific Bell, experiences that would later inform the satirical workplace culture depicted in “Dilbert.”
Launched in 1989, “Dilbert” quickly became a cultural phenomenon, appearing in over 2,000 publications across 57 countries and translated into 19 languages. Adams was honored with the esteemed Reuben Award from the National Cartoonists Society in 1997, and his work led to the sale of more than 20 million calendars and books. Among his notable titles are comic compilations as well as business-oriented works like “Win Bigly” and “How to Lose Almost Every Time and Still Win Big.”
Adams faced significant backlash in February 2023 when comments made during a livestream were interpreted as racist. He had discussed a poll regarding the statement “It’s OK to be white,” which led him to make controversial claims about the Black community. The fallout was swift; numerous newspapers, including the Los Angeles Times, dropped “Dilbert,” and his syndicator severed ties with him. Furthermore, Penguin Random House canceled the publication of his book “Reframe Your Brain,” which he later self-published in August 2023.
Despite the controversies, Adams maintained a loyal following, with his livestreams attracting tens of thousands of viewers. He reflected on his situation, asserting that he had used hyperbole to express his points and emphasizing his belief in treating individuals as individuals without discrimination.
In his final days, Adams remained engaged with his audience, illustrating the complexities of his life and career. His passing marks the end of an era for “Dilbert” and leaves a legacy that will be remembered for its unique insights into workplace dynamics and culture.
