Rob Liefeld, the comic book legend behind Deadpool, X-Men’s Cable, Image Comics itself, and so much more, has made an unforgettable mark on the industry. But in a surprising and somber update, Liefeld has revealed that his time in comics may be coming to an end due to health concerns.
While most fans know that Rob Liefeld stepped away from writing Deadpool for Marvel and has since refocused on his Image Comics series Youngblood, the creator has now revealed that his retirement from the Merc with a Mouth may soon extend to all comics.
Speaking at New York Comic Con 2025, Liefeld shared that he’s considering full retirement from the industry. Citing worsening vision problems, he explained that he likely has only about five years left before his “eyes go.” Every retirement carries a bittersweet edge, but knowing that Liefeld’s hand is being forced by health concerns makes the news especially disheartening.
Rob Liefeld Reveals He Has Only Five Years Left in Comics
From Vision Struggles to Youngblood’s 2025 Return, Here’s How the Legendary Creator Plans to Make Every Year Count
Speaking about his impending retirement, Liefeld explained, “I figure I have five years left doing comic books before the eyes go. I already have to upgrade my glasses all the time, and I’m not doing that laser [@%#*]. I’d be the guy the laser blinds, so that’s not going to happen.”
While this may sound like grim news, Liefeld put a positive spin on it: “But I’ve got five years left. I am committed to doing all of this stuff with Image Comics. Having a blast. I feel that we are giving you some fun comics.” Fans may dread his retirement, but Liefeld plans to make the next five years fully count.
This November marks the return of Youngblood to Image Comics, a series Liefeld originally launched in 1992. Youngblood #1 (2025), written and drawn by Liefeld, will be available on November 5. The series signals both a celebration and the beginning of the end of the Rob Liefeld era in comics, giving fans yet another chance to enjoy his work.
Why Did Rob Liefeld Say Goodbye to Deadpool and Marvel?
From Age Concerns to Frustrations with Marvel Studios
Fans will recall this isn’t the first time Rob Liefeld has hinted at retirement. In February 2024, he announced on X that he was producing his final work on Deadpool for Marvel, citing his age as the reason. A year later, Liefeld shared additional details that likely influenced his decision to step away from the Merc with a Mouth.
Liefeld revealed he had several negative experiences with Marvel Studios and told THR, “Kevin Feige does not treat comic book creators well. That is my personal experience.” While fans mourned his departure from Deadpool, considering the multiple reasons behind his decision, it’s understandable that Liefeld chose to step back from the character he gave life to.