Scott Adams, Creator of 'Dilbert,' Dies at 68 After Battle with Metastatic Prostate Cancer

Pleasanton, California – January 13, 2026 — Scott Raymond Adams, the influential cartoonist and author best known for creating the iconic Dilbert comic strip, has passed away at the age of 68. His death, confirmed through reports from family and close associates, came after a prolonged and public struggle with advanced prostate cancer that had metastasized to his bones.

Adams first revealed his diagnosis in May 2025 during an episode of his daily podcast, Real Coffee with Scott Adams, noting that the cancer was the same aggressive form as one publicly disclosed by former President Joe Biden. He described the disease as having spread extensively, leading to severe pain, partial paralysis below the waist due to spinal involvement, and ongoing heart failure. In early January 2026, Adams shared a stark update, stating that consultations with his radiologist had delivered "all bad news" and that the odds of recovery were "essentially zero."

By mid-January, his first ex-wife, Shelly Miles, reported that Adams had entered hospice care at his Northern California home the previous week. Family members, including Miles, her sister, and Adams' stepdaughter, provided round-the-clock support alongside nurses as his condition deteriorated rapidly. Reports indicated he had only days remaining, with bouts of confusion setting in, though he pushed through to record what may have been his final podcast episode.

In his final weeks, Adams made headlines for announcing his intention to convert to Christianity, influenced by conversations with Christian friends. He framed the decision in part as a "Pascal's wager," expressing hope that it aligned him with the path to eternal life amid his terminal illness.

Adams launched Dilbert in 1989, a satirical take on corporate life that became one of the most widely syndicated comic strips in history, appearing in over 2,000 newspapers worldwide at its peak. The strip spawned books, merchandise, and an animated series, cementing Adams' reputation as a keen observer of workplace absurdity.

His career took a controversial turn in 2023 when remarks about race led to the widespread cancellation of Dilbert by major syndicators and newspapers. Adams relaunched it independently as Dilbert Reborn on his subscription platform. A vocal supporter of Donald Trump and commentator on persuasion, politics, and culture, he maintained a dedicated following through his podcast and social media even as health challenges mounted.

In late 2025, Adams cited physical limitations—including focal dystonia in his drawing hand and semi-paralysis—from the cancer's progression, transitioning to writing the strip while others handled the art.

Adams is survived by family members, including stepchildren from his marriages. His sharp wit, unfiltered commentary, and resilience in facing mortality leave a complex legacy in American pop culture and commentary.Funeral arrangements have not been publicly announced. Those who knew him or followed his work are remembering a man who challenged norms, provoked thought, and, in his final chapter, sought peace.

17GEN4.com