I think where half the fault lies with the industry glutting itself back in the 90's to cash-in on short term profits, the other half lies in the industry norm of "Superstar Talent". I think this type of mentality has really hurt any possibility of having any really classic runs of creators any more. Just 6-12 issues of "LOOK IT'S SUPERSTAR!". Also see: "The Wi$ard Effect"
Creators need to be paid normal amounts of money for what they do, as long as they're willing to be on a title for at LEAST three years worth of issues. If they're late or need more than two fill-in's a year, fire them outright and get someone dependable.
Then let's count how many classic runs we get on title when creators are forced to sink-or-swim on one book. Fans may follow their faves, but the majority...the actual "fans"...are there for the character...
