Hubert Douglas, Sir Henderson

Hubert (1971–2020), born Hubert Boulard, was a transformative figure in French comics, evolving from a sought-after colorist for artists like David B. and Jason into one of the industry's most poignant screenwriters. Growing up in a conservative Catholic family that struggled to accept his homosexuality, he endured years of undiagnosed depression, a period that deeply informed his creative obsession with "monsters" and those living on the social periphery. His work is defined by this tension between inner vulnerability and outward beauty, often using the lens of fantasy or historical fiction to dissect very modern human struggles. His career reached heights of both critical and commercial success through long-standing collaborations, most notably with the duo Kerascoët on the hit Miss Don't Touch and the award-winning graphic novel Beauty. However, it was his dark fantasy saga The Ogre-Gods (with Bertrand Gatignol) and the posthumous phenomenon Men’s Skin (with Zanzim) that cemented his legacy. These works showcased his unique ability to blend political intrigue with a profound exploration of gender, sexuality, and the weight of family heritage, earning him prestigious international awards, including the 2021 Grand Prix de la Critique. Beyond his fictional narratives, Hubert was a committed advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, notably directing the collective work Normal People in 2013 during the French debate over marriage equality. Influenced by literary giants like William Faulkner and Joyce Carol Oates, his writing remained unflinching and lucid until his tragic death by suicide in February 2020. He leaves behind a body of work that serves as a sanctuary for the marginalized, proving that even in a world of cruelty and "monstrosity," there is a profound, necessary beauty to be found in being true to oneself.