SCOTT STANTIS

Born on May 2, 1959, Scott Brian Stantis has emerged as an influential American comics artist and editorial cartoonist. The wit and creativity that infuse his works underscore his unique contributions to American political commentary expressed through cartoons. Particularly well-known through his association with major media groups such as the Nexstar Media Group, Stantis’s career is marked by numerous successes that reflect his inherent contrarian perspective and a unique charm that identifies him as one of the key American libertarians.

In San Diego, California, a city known for its aptitude for arts and entertainment, Scott Stantis was born. He studied under William Loiterman at Los Angeles Harbour College before continuing his academic journey at California State University. It was in California that Stantis began developing his exceptional aptitude for sketching his perspectives into insightful cartoons.

The master cartoonist commenced his professional journey as a staff cartoonist for a series of influential publications, including The Birmingham News, The Orange County Register, The Commercial Appeal, The Arizona Republic, and the Grand Rapids Press. His adept understanding of political dynamics combined with his distinctive and amusing visual style led to the creation of weekly cartoons for USA Today.

Stantis anchored his career further when he stepped into the significant role of an editorial cartoonist for The Chicago Tribune in 2009. He filled in the shoes left by the talented cartoonist Jeff MacNelly, who passed away in 2009. This position helped Stantis reach out to a wider audience, establishing himself as a prominent voice in the world of political cartoons.

Stantis's editorial cartoons are syndicated to more than 400 newspapers via the Tribune Content Agency, reaching out to a vast array of readers who appreciate his unique blend of wit and social commentary. Three comic strips succinctly exhibit his talents:

Moreover, his association and contributions to King Baloo, a comic strip by Bob Thaves, can't be forgotten.

Stantis's popularity further soared when he took on an alternative role as a host of a short-lived afternoon talk show on Birmingham's local talk station, WYDE 850 AM. However, his heart always rested with his art, drawing him back into the world of cartooning.

In 2003, drawing from years of experience and a reputation built on engaging and incisive cartoons, Stantis was elected as the president of the Association of American Editorial Cartoonists. During his tenure, he advocated for preserving and promoting the profession of editorial cartooning, encouraging robust and humorous political and social commentary in news media.

Scott Stantis shares his life with his long-term wife, Janien Fadich-Stantis, with whom he has two sons. Despite his professional commitments, he devotes quality time to his family and is known to divide his time between Chicago and a suburb of Birmingham, Alabama. His passion remains deeply rooted in cartooning, consistently delivering insightful and comic perspectives on contemporary issues.

Scott Stantis's life and career highlight the unique potential that editorial cartoons have in communicating intricate socio-political observations through wit and humour. As a masterful American editorial cartoonist and comics artist, his work galvanises discussions and fosters critical thinking among his extensive audience. For aspiring cartoonists, Stantis serves as a stellar example of innovation, resilience, and the pursuit of one’s passion.