Disney's 'The Power of Joy' producer sets Eisner record with 'Weirdo' nomination in the children's category
Tony Weaver Jr. Nominated for Prestigious Eisner Award
Tony Weaver Jr., a Disney content creator and author, has made history with his nomination for the 2025 Will Eisner Comic Industry Award. Weaver's debut graphic novel, "Weirdo," has been recognised in the Best Publication for Kids category, marking a significant milestone in his career [1][2][3][4].
"Weirdo" is a middle-grade graphic novel memoir, drawing on personal experiences to explore themes of identity, belonging, and personal challenges [3]. Although specific plot details are scarce, the classification of the book as a memoir for younger readers suggests it aims to provide a relatable and empowering narrative.
Weaver's nomination in this prestigious award category underscores the book's resonance with its intended audience and its potential to positively influence mental health by validating diverse experiences and emotions [3][4]. Graphic novels like "Weirdo" that tackle personal and emotional themes through accessible art and narrative forms have been increasingly recognised for their ability to foster empathy, normalise discussions around mental health, and support young readers in understanding their own experiences.
In his own words, Weaver describes "Weirdo" as a "nerdy kid's instruction manual for self-love and self-confidence" [5]. The book is designed to be accessible, appearing in various locations such as lockers, classrooms, backpacks, and homes.
Weaver's storytelling inspirations can be traced back to the Walt Disney Company, with characters like Hercules serving as influential figures during his youth [6]. As a Disney "The Power of Joy" creator, Weaver uses his platform to inspire joy in his work, emphasising the importance of moving forward during difficult times and finding the light that will guide one home.
Sadly, Weaver's own journey mirrors the struggles faced by many young people today. He attempted to end his life as a teenager due to feelings of hopelessness and lack of self-worth [7]. However, he found solace in stories, specifically comic books, manga, anime, and video games, which inspired him to become a storyteller.
Suicide rates among males ages 15 to 24 have risen more than 18% between 2014 and 2023, peaking in 2021, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [8]. For Black teens, the suicide rate nearly doubled during the same period [9]. It is crucial to address these issues and provide resources for vulnerable young people, especially for Black children and other children of colour.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline's new three-digit code is 988, providing free, 24/7 crisis counseling for individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts, substance use, or other mental health crises. The website for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 988lifeline.org.
Tony Weaver hopes to channel the power of joy into a guiding light for those who need it most, using his platform to inspire and support young people in their darkest moments. His book, "Weirdo," serves as a beacon for young people, offering a message of self-love, self-confidence, and resilience.
Tony Weaver Jr., apart from being a Disney content creator and author, is also a mental health advocate. His graphic novel, "Weirdo," which tackles personal and emotional themes, could potentially uplift mental health by validating diverse experiences and emotions [3][4]. In a world where suicide rates among young people, particularly Black teens, have been rising, Weaver's book serves as a beacon, fostering empathy and offering a message of self-love, self-confidence, and resilience [8][9]. Amidst his success in the entertainment industry, Tony Weaver remains dedicated to using his platform to support health-and-wellness, relationships, and overall lifestyle improvement, especially through books like "Weirdo" [1][2][3][4][5].
