Gianluigi Bonelli

Giovanni Luigi Bonelli, born 22 December 1908 in Milan, Italy, and passing on 12 January 2001, is best known as the co-creator of the iconic Italian Western comic *Tex Willer*, which he launched in 1948 with artist Aurelio Galleppini. Bonelli entered comics through publishing, initially writing adventure stories and adapting novels before finding his signature voice in the *fumetto nero* and Western genres. His work on *Tex* defined his career, with the series becoming a cornerstone of Italian comics, known for its sprawling narratives, strong moral themes, and detailed historical settings. Bonelli’s writing style emphasized long-form storytelling and complex characters, often collaborating with Galleppini and later with other artists on the series. Beyond *Tex*, he contributed to titles like *Hondo, der weiße Indianer* and *Tex Mefisto Il Signore del Male*, extending his influence across decades. His legacy is immense, shaping Italian popular culture and inspiring generations of creators. Bonelli received multiple awards, including the Yellow Kid Award and the Fiera del Fumetto prize, cementing his status as a foundational figure in European comics.