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Cormac McCarthy

Is Cormac McCarthy A-List?

NoB

NoCormac McCarthy is currently ranked B tier — a well-known figure with a strong career but not quite a household name.

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Reached A-list in 2007

The Road Wins Pulitzer

Lost A-list status in 2023

Dropped to B tier — Death at Age 89

Ranking Timeline

1965D$0.05M

Debut Novel Published

Published his first novel 'The Orchard Keeper' to modest critical reception. His early career was marked by financial struggle and obscurity.

1985C$0.3M+$0.25M

Blood Meridian Released

Published 'Blood Meridian,' which would later be recognized as a masterpiece but initially received limited commercial success. Critics began to take serious notice of his unique voice.

1992B$1M+$0.7M

All the Pretty Horses

Released 'All the Pretty Horses,' which became a bestseller and won the National Book Award. This breakthrough brought him mainstream recognition and financial stability.

2005B$2M+$1M

No Country for Old Men

Published the novel that would be adapted into an Oscar-winning film by the Coen Brothers. His reputation as a major American writer was firmly established.

2007A$3M+$1M

The Road Wins Pulitzer

Won the Pulitzer Prize for 'The Road,' which also became a major film. This period represented the peak of his mainstream visibility and critical acclaim.

2023B$4M+$1M

Death at Age 89

Passed away in Santa Fe, New Mexico, with his final novels published posthumously. Major literary figures and publications worldwide mourned his loss.

2026B$4M

Literary Giant Remembered

Regarded as one of the greatest American novelists, widely studied in universities and celebrated by literary critics. While revered in literary circles, he remains less known to the general public compared to more commercial authors.

Last updated: February 25, 2026