Here's PR I'd saved up for some of the comics probably coming out tomorrow. Let me know if this is useful, Legionnaires.
KEVIN SMITH AND ARCHIE COMICS JOIN FORCES FOR THE CROSSOVER NO ONE EXPECTED
Acclaimed filmmaker’s View Askewniverse crash-lands in Riverdale in the pages of ARCHIE MEETS JAY AND SILENT BOB one-shot comic in July
March 7, 2025 — Acclaimed filmmaker, director, writer, podcaster, and comic book fan Kevin Smith brings his talents to the world of Archie Comics in July with an oversized one-shot comic crossover, and a few of his friends are coming along for the ride: Jay and Silent Bob!
“I believe it was Stoic philosopher Epictetus who first said, ‘Everything’s Archie.’ And he was right,” Smith said. “Whether it be Veronica in CLERKS or the Mister Weatherbee conversation in CHASING AMY, the influence of Archie Andrews is mixed into the brick and mortar of my pop cultural foundation. So, there was no way I was passing up this incredible opportunity to collide the worlds of Riverdale and the Askewniverse, and introduce icons on the order of Archie, Betty, Veronica, Jughead, Moose, Reggie, and Josie to reprobates like Jay and Silent Bob.”
ARCHIE MEETS JAY AND SILENT BOB #1 — written by Smith with art by Archie mainstays Fernando Ruiz, Rich Koslowski, Matt Herms, and Jack Morelli — barrels into comic shops on July 9 — just in time for the year’s biggest pop culture event, San Diego Comic Con. The crossover the world has been waiting for kicks off when Archie gets a summer job working at Quick Stop alongside none other than Randal Graves, who debuted in Smith’s seminal 1994 film CLERKS. But when Jay and Silent Bob hit the scene, Archie’s life — and all of Riverdale — only get wilder from there. Written in the hilarious, sharp style that defined his films, ARCHIE MEETS JAY AND SILENT BOB #1 is a must-read for fans of Smith’s work and diehard Archie readers looking for a more mature and biting interpretation of the classic characters.
“ARCHIE MEETS JAY AND SILENT BOB is a crossover like we’ve never done before! Kevin has brilliantly brought two legendary, generation-defining worlds together to tell a story that’s so funny, totally wild, and also heartfelt and moving,” said Archie Comics’ Jesse Goldwater, who was instrumental in making the project happen. “Kevin Smith — a true genius — tells a story that feels both quintessentially View Askewniverse and classically Archie, honoring the incredible legacies of these beloved iconic characters. I cannot wait for readers to check out what I believe is going to be the greatest crossover in the history of entertainment!”
Following in the footsteps of now-legendary Archie crossovers like ARCHIE MEETS PREDATOR, ARCHIE MEETS RAMONES, and more, ARCHIE MEETS JAY AND SILENT BOB #1 presents readers with an unlikely, historic, and completely bonkers pairing — in partnership with Smith himself. The end result, courtesy of Smith’s sly wit, takes Archie, Jay, Silent Bob, and the rest of the gang through a raucous 48 pages of hijinks as they crash a Pussycats concert, meet a potential new love interest, and blaze through a musical number that will be burned into your brain forever.
“I couldn’t be happier that the first crossover Secret Stash Press has ever done is with Jesse and the good folks at Archie Comics,” Smith added. “Everything’s Archie, and Archie is everything.”
ATOM: THE BEGINNING VOL. 11 (TITAN, 224 PAGES, B&W, $12.99)
The prequel series to the legendary Astro Boy by Osamu Tezuka continues with its 11th volume. Six’s journey leads him to fight a tough foe to save an old acquaintance. Fans of mecha fights and anime will find a perfect fit with this action-packed Manga! The eleventh volume of Atom: The Beginning marks the team’s return from their adventures in Vietnam, where they were able to uncover clues about the ‘robot boy’ from the future. They have the chance to ponder the various pieces of information they gathered, whilst resuming their research and daily life. But before everything can become completely normal again, an unexpected visitor disrupts the harmony. Someone that the team does not get along with the team turns up, out of the blue, at Lab-7. Their appearance leads to some unsettling revelations that could bring them even closer to the truth about the ‘robot boy’, but at what cost? Volume 11 of ATOM: The Beginning, created by Masami Yuki and Tetsurō Kasahara, seems as if it’s leading our heroes towards the secrets of the iconic Osamu Tezuka creation, Astro Boy, an icon known across the world from the hugely successful manga and anime. However, it’s slowly becoming a truth that might be better left untouched.
IDW PUBLISHING'S COZY HORROR HIT 'BENEATH THE TREES WHERE NOBODY SEES' SET TO TAKE OVER THE COMIC INDUSTRY ALL OVER AGAIN IN 2025
“Woodbrook’s killer bear is back and deadlier than ever” - Matthew Aguilar, ComicBook.com
LOS ANGELES, CA (May 13, 2025) – IDW Publishing’s BENEATH THE TREES WHERE NOBODY SEES - the cozy horror tale from the twisted and brilliant mind of Patrick Horvath - took the comic book industry by storm last year, earning increased sales from issue to issue, two prestigious Eisner nominations, rave reviews from critics and fans alike, topped the graphic novel charts, and was declared the “best indie comics success story” by Screen Rant. But that was only the beginning…
This year, Horvath’s sinister comic about an anthropomorphic serial killer bear named Samantha Strong is back to become the talk of the entire industry again while reaching new heights with a startling new series, a jaw-dropping hardcover collected edition, and new ways for fans to engage with the shocking story they adore.
For fans wanting fresh thrills, the eagerly-anticipated sequel BENEATH THE TREES WHERE NOBODY SEES: RITE OF SPRING #1 (of 6) is on sale July 9, 2025 with a pre-order deadline of June 2, 2025. Critics got an early look at the debut issue and the reviews are in with a clear message: Make sure this is on your pull list!
“...off to an absolutely killer start” - Matthew Aguilar, ComicBook.com
“...a compelling new protagonist, emotional depth, and chilling visuals” - David Brooke, AIPT
“...an outstanding sequel that matches - or even tops - the original miniseries with familiar art and fresh, chilling twists” - Justin Soderberg, Capes & Tights
“Every panel is a masterpiece and every page turn is a heart tremor for what comes next” - Dan McMahon, GateCrashers
“...plenty of twists and turns in this first issue, including a fantastic final series of pages that will leave you dying for more” - Alex Zalben, Comic Book Club
“...kicks off the sequel to the praised series with a start that continues its excellence” - Brett Schenker, Graphic Policy
“...a chilling and gripping continuation that fans of the original won’t want to miss” - Jeremy Snow, The Geekly Grind
For the especially passionate fans of the first series, IDW is immensely proud to offer readers a special limited printing of the STORYBOOK EDITION OF BENEATH THE TREES WHERE NOBODY SEES. This stunning premium hardcover includes all six issues from the first series while also collecting the 10-page prequel BENEATH THE TREES WHERE NOBODY SEES: PRÄLUDIUM for the first time ever. Bound within a rich cloth spine and a new cover with elegant gold foil treatments and accompanied by a ribbon bookmark, this high quality edition tailor-made for collectors also features a variant cover gallery, original concept art, and an interview with Patrick Horvath. Pre-order your copy now before they sell out HERE.
For even more ways to celebrate BENEATH THE TREES WHERE NOBODY SEES, IDW has created social media channels dedicated to the adorably terrifying series! These channels will be the top destination for fans of the franchise to feast their eyes on exclusive reveals and news, like astonishing art, behind-the-scenes secret info, insightful and entertaining interviews plus fan engagement opportunities with Patrick Horvath himself, and much more. Check out these fun accounts on Instagram, X, and Bluesky.'
There is even more in the works for fans of BENEATH THE TREES WHERE NOBODY SEES, but we’ll save those announcements for another day. In the meantime, don't miss out on the must-read sequel to one of 2024’s most talked about comic book series. Pre-order your copy of BENEATH THE TREES WHERE NOBODY SEES: RITE OF SPRING at a comic shop near you. In addition to the premium hardcover edition, the trade paperback collected edition of BENEATH THE TREES WHERE NOBODY SEES is on sale now wherever graphic novels are sold.
COSMIC CENSORSHIP VOL. 1 (TITAN, 256 PAGES, B&W, $12.99) is by Ryuuichi Sadamatsu. Mecha mastermind Ryuuichi Sadamatsu creates a world threatened by destructive weapons and formidable foes, reminiscent of Neon Genesis Evangelion. Accompany Maki Makino, as she learns to navigate her new powers and a budding romance amidst a chaotic conflict.
CONAN THE BARBARIAN #22
(W) Jim Zub
(A) Fernando Dagnino
Publisher: Heroic Signatures & Titan Comics
FC, 32pp, $3.99, On Sale July 9, 2025
The Great Serpent’s influence twists and turns, pulling Conan into their deadly coils as the Cimmerian and his allies are lured into Stygia…
What they find on this journey will make their blood run cold and set the stage for a conflict beyond their wildest imagination!
DOCTOR STRANGE OF ASGARD #5 (OF 5)
Written by DEREK LANDY
Art by CARLOS MAGNO
Cover by GEOFF SHAW
WHO WILL BECOME ASGARD’S SORCERER SUPREME?
Doctor Strange finally uncovers the truth behind Hulda’s murder – but the true murderer may be closer than he thinks! A final confrontation leads to a magical showdown that will change the future of Asgard…
DOPEMAN VOL. 2 (TITAN, 208 PAGES, B&W, $12.99)
The doping war escalates… The Dopemen grow stronger, and their devastating powers leave a trail of destruction in their wake. Ryo Yoshigami throws the reader amidst the chaos, alongside the D-Unit who must take extreme measures to contain the threat. Dopeman Volume 2 is darker and more destructive than the first, as the Dopemen grow stronger. The D-Unit’s battles intensify, as resources are stretched thin against relentless enemies. As the plot thickens, readers are thrust deeper into the morally ambiguous struggle, reminiscent of the Ryo Yoshigami’s hit anime Psycho-Pass. The dark alternate reality continues being explored in this second volume, as Japan has now become completely unrecognizable. Against the backdrop of this chaotic modern world, the conflict between the authorities and the Dopemen reaches new heights. An action-packed and thrilling narrative, combined with stunning artwork by Yuhei Ogino, has created an adrenaline-pumping sequel. The gripping story to the reader will be what drugs are to the formidable Dopemen, with thoughts of the third and final volume lingering in their heads until its release…
CHECK OUT ALL THE COVERS FOR FANTASTIC FOUR #1!
A new comic book era for Marvel’s First Family begins in FANTASTIC FOUR #1 by Ryan North and Humberto Ramos, on sale July 9.
New York, NY— May 23, 2025 — The Fantastic Four are about to embark on new adventures, but they’ll have to find each other first!
This July, writer Ryan North and artist Humberto Ramos kick off an all-new era of FANTASTIC FOUR that begins with Reed, Sue, Ben and Johnny scattered across time by their archenemy, Doctor Doom. The new volume serves as both the fascinating next chapter in North’s current work on FANTASTIC FOUR and a perfect jumping on point for readers who want to experience one of the most acclaimed super hero titles of today. The debut issue hits stands just weeks before the release of The Fantastic Four: First Steps film on July 25, and today, fans can see all the covers that will be available at their local comic shop.
Series artist Humberto Ramos’ delivers the main cover while variant covers come from a lineup of superstar talent including Alex Ross, Alan Davis, Jerome Opeña, Cliff Chiang, and Jeehyung Lee. FANTASTIC FOUR #1 also features a special Foil Variant Cover by Mahmud Asrar, a Remastered Hidden Gem Variant Cover by industry legend John Buscema, a Wraparound Variant Cover by Claudio Castellini, and the first of a five-part connecting cover by Skottie Young. Plus, Leo Romero takes inspiration from the Silver Age with one of the month’s eye-catching Retrovision Covers and Lorenzo Pastrovicchio provides the title’s latest Disney What If? Fantastic Four Homage Variant Cover.
FANTASTIC FOUR will also feature more Marvel Rivals Variant Covers by NetEase Games that spotlight artwork from the hit video game, starting with a connecting cover for issues #1 and #2. A Marvel Studios Variant Cover that showcases concept art from the upcoming film will also be available and will be revealed at a later date.
The FANTASTIC FOUR return with a new issue #1, kicking off all-new adventures through time, space, science and the human condition! When the Fantastic Four take on Doom, things go well until they suddenly go catastrophically wrong - and they're sent to four different eras in Earth's history! Alone and isolated in wildly different time periods, Reed, Johnny, Ben and Sue all have to fight to survive and hope that their shared brilliance will guide them back together!
“I still want each issue to stand alone, and I want every issue to be a place for someone to jump on and get a fully satisfying story with every issue they pick up, but I am turning the dial a little bit more towards larger and crazier stories for that larger narrative. I'm not changing the special sauce - as Ben would say, ‘I'm just adding a couple cloves of garlic - not because it's not delicious, I just wanna add a little bit of zip,’" North explained in a recent interview with IGN.
THE FUTURE FOUNDATION AUTHORIZE A COMIC BOOK DRAMATIZATION OF THE FANTASTIC FOUR'S FIRST ADVENTURE
Superstar creators Matt Fraction and Mark Buckingham have been tasked by the Future Foundation to bring the Fantastic Four’s incredible origin to the comic page in FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS #1, a new Marvel comic book coming this July!
The FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS comic book spotlights the real-life events of the Fantastic Four’s debut to the world, with research from The Future Foundation, retold by Marvel Comics.
New York, NY— April 25, 2025 — This July, the Future Foundation is proud to partner with Marvel Comics to produce the first-ever authorized retelling of the Fantastic Four’s early adventures. Titled FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS, the single-issue comic will be authored by acclaimed writer and renowned Fantastic Four expert Matt Fraction and drawn by award-winning super hero artist Mark Buckingham. The issue will hit stands just in time for the fourth anniversary of the Fantastic Four’s public debut to our world, part of a milestone celebration that’s shaping up to be the talk of the summer season!
It’s the moment that changed the world–-presented in the most brilliant medium there is! FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS #1 is certain to be a must-have item, both for those who have looked up to this super team since they made themselves known those who might be unaware of the history behind Mister Fantastic, Invisible Woman, Human Torch and The Thing’s incredible rise to global stardom!
Four years ago, the world was transformed as an amazing cosmic-powered quartet revealed themselves and their astonishing abilities to the public! Since that time, they have become world-famous as the Fantastic Four! Now, to celebrate that anniversary, Marvel Comics recounts their very first exploit that saved our city from near destruction!
"What an honor to be asked to help celebrate the fourth anniversary of the Fantastic Four!” Fraction shared. “It was a thrill to bring their first legendary adventure to the world of comic books for the first time! It's a story we all know by heart, but I think Magic Mark Buckingham and I have found a way to tell it as you've never heard or seen before -- and who knows, this could be the start of something big!"
Take a look at the team in action on artist Phil Noto’s cover and be sure to ask the fine folks at your local comic shop to save you a copy of FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS #1! For more information, visit Marvel.com.
FANTASTIC 4: FIRST STEPS #1
Written by MATT FRACTION
Art by MARK BUCKINGHAM
Cover by PHIL NOTO
HELLO DARKNESS #12 (BOOM, $5.99)
THE MARVEL SWIMSUIT SPECIAL RETURNS!
The legendary Marvel Swimsuit Special is back this July with your favorite heroes soaking up the sun in MARVEL SWIMSUIT SPECIAL: FRIENDS, FOES & RIVALS #1!
The one-shot will also debut designs for in-game costumes coming soon to Marvel Rivals!
New York, NY— April 17, 2025 — Throughout the ‘90s, fans enjoyed a lighter side of the Marvel Universe in Marvel Swimsuit Special, an annual one-shot that featured breathtaking artwork of Marvel characters in beach attire and swimwear. This unique and beloved special makes its long-demanded return this July in MARVEL SWIMSUIT SPECIAL: FRIENDS, FOES & RIVALS #1!
Primarily an artist showcase, Marvel Swimsuit Special presented pinups from the industry’s top talents in a magazine-style format, complete with tongue-in-cheek articles and descriptions. Each year, a light-hearted plot brought the heroes to a different setting, from the jungles of the Savage Land to the shores of Monster Island. MARVEL SWIMSUIT SPECIAL: FRIENDS, FOES & RIVALS #1 continues the tradition with an overarching story written by Tim Seeley and Tony Fleecs and drawn by superstar artist Nick Bradshaw that stars Earth’s Mightiest fashion designer, Janet Van Dyne, aka the Wasp! In addition to Bradshaw, fans can look forward to unforgettable, instantly-iconic imagery from top artists like Nic Klein, Marguerite Sauvage, Luciano Vecchio and more. The issue will also include designs for new costumes coming soon to the Marvel Rivals, the mega popular multiplayer video game from Marvel Games and NetEase Games.
THE SWIMSUIT SPECIAL RETURNS!
Roxxon Comics is at it again when they release their own UNAUTHORIZED SWIMSUIT SPECIAL! Wasp is on the case and seizes the opportunity for Marvel’s heroes to do their OWN swimwear fashion shoot all over the world! But fear not, True Believers, we know what you’re REALLY here for! This super-sized special features splash page after splash page of gorgeous art, but with a story so you can pretend you’re “reading it for the articles”…
Check out the main wraparound cover by Adam Hughes along with variant covers by Mark Brooks, Taurin Clarke, and Russell Dauterman, and stay tuned for more information about MARVEL SWIMSUIT SPECIAL: FRIENDS, FOES & RIVALS #1 in the weeks ahead. For more information, visit Marvel.com.
MARVEL SWIMSUIT SPECIAL: FRIENDS, FOES & RIVALS #1
Written by TIM SEELEY & TONY FLEECS
Art by NICK BRADSHAW, NIC KLEIN, MARGUERITE SAUVAGE, LUCIANO VECCHIO & MORE
Wraparound Cover by ADAM HUGHES
Wraparound Variant Cover by MARK BROOKS
Variant Cover by TAURIN CLARKE
Variant Cover by RUSSELL DAUTERMAN
Virgin Variant Cover by RUSSELL DAUTERMAN
MINKY WOODCOCK VOL 3: THE GIRL CALLED CTHULHU HC (TITAN, 112 PAGES, $24.99)
is by Cynthia von Buhler. The plucky detective returns in her thrilling third graphic novel, this time with an occult horror twist! Sensational artist Cynthia von Buhler melds her glorious illustrations with the eldritch elements of HP Lovecraft and Aleister Crowley. Inspired by a true WWII maritime operation, shocking satanic events, monstrous men, and one salacious sea creature, this volume tells the tale of Minky’s encounter with legendary horror writer H.P. Lovecraft, creator of the dreaded Cthulhu. Following the death of Harry Houdini, Minky is approached by the occultist and writer Aleister Crowley to help vindicate him from an accusation of murder. This throws Minky into an occult underworld and leads to a much bigger investigation involving a missing man and Britain's secret service. Meanwhile, Lovecraftian horrors plague her dreams, and it’s up to Minky to discover the connections between the two writers and the mysterious death of her mother. Based on an actual WWII maritime operation inspired by a detective novel, Minky discovers how writers, including Ian Fleming, helped end WWII. From the mind of lauded artist, author, and playwright, Cynthia von Buhler, this third installment in the gumshoe detective series takes the thrills and twists to new heights!
OUTSIDERS VOL. 1 (TITAN, 176 PAGES, B&W, $12.99)
Vampires and werewolves collide in this modern fantasy epic. Step into the city’s shadows and uncover the secrets behind the ancient feud, alongside a curious and brave young girl.
Prepare to be captivated by another masterpiece from the mind of Kanou Akira, where fantasy meets reality, with Outsiders Volume 1. Delve into a world where vampires and werewolves clash in the shadows, and humans unravel the secrets of an ancient feud.
Navigate the world of dark fantasy alongside Ema, a high school student who is full of energy and determination. She embarks on a perilous path that will challenge her beliefs and reshape her destiny.
The courageous, young protagonist finds that she possesses special abilities, but will those same gifts attract unwanted attention? Will her curious nature help her uncover secrets, or lead to her demise?
With mesmerizing artistry, Akira brings this dark tale to life, capturing the bustling streets of Japan and the eerie shadows where otherworldly creatures lurk. Although Akira thrusts readers into a treacherous war between fantastical creatures, it is in a world not so different from our own.
These monsters aren’t from another dimension, they are from ours and have been fighting an age-old battle within the shadows. Outsiders Volume 1 casts that same shadow over the reader, who is caught in the chaos and conflict and left on the edge of their seat.
AN OFFICIAL CONTINUATION OF THE SKULL ISLAND ANIMATED SERIES!
SET IN THE LEGENDARY COMICS MONSTERVERSE!
KONG RETURNS! SPINNING OUT OF THE HIT NETFLIX SHOW!
A ragtag group of castaways must return to an island steeped in dark secrets and danger!
After Kong's battle with the Kraken, survivors soon discover that far worse lurks in the shadows … and that their unlikely ally may not be able to protect them from Skull Island’s horrors!
THE SAVAGE SWORD OF CONAN #9
Format: Comic book / magazine
(W) Patrick Zircher, Fabian Nicieza
(A) Patrick Zircher, Sean Chen
Publisher: Titan Comics & Heroic Signatures
B&W, 64pp, $6.99, On Sale: Jul 9, 2025
Patrick Zircher slashes into the Hyborian Age with a tale of high adventure starring Conan and Valeria, whilst Fabian Nicieza and artist Sean Chen craft a high-stakes assassination story starring KULL. Also featuring instant-classic covers from Alex Horley and the late Neal Adams, incredible art pin-ups, and more.
SOLOMON KANE: THE SERPENT RING #4 (Of 4, TITAN, $4.99)
STAR TREK: LOWER DECKS #9 (IDW, $4.99)
SUPERMAN TREASURY 2025: HERO FOR ALL
DC Turns Up the Heat on Its “Summer of Superman” Publishing Initiative in July!
Dan Jurgens and Bruno Redondo Tell a Supersized Story in a Tabloid-Size One-Shot
Plus, Superman and Krypto Battle a Kryptonite-Charged Toyman, Supergirl Has an Unexpected Team-Up, Superman Battles the Darkseid Legion, and More
Legends collide as the Man of Steel goes supersized for DC’s Summer of Superman! In this all-new treasury edition, reminiscent in size and scale of DC’s classic “tabloid” comic books, quintessential Superman writer Dan Jurgens pairs with dynamic artist Bruno Redondo and colorist Adriano Lucas to craft a larger-than-life story of power, tragedy, action, and, above all—hope.
“Since Superman is the cornerstone on which our entire industry is built, the term ‘Treasury Sized Edition’ seems to be the perfect vehicle for him,” said Jurgens. “As a kid, the term ‘Treasury Edition’ meant that it was sure to be a special project and one that I just had to have. From the very start, most of those projects focused on Superman. It started with the first SUPERMAN vs. THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN team-up and continued with SUPERMAN vs.SHAZAM, SUPERMAN vs. WONDER WOMAN and one of the best comic projects ever, SUPERMAN vs. MUHAMMAD ALI. It was an honor, years later, to be able to add to that lineup of Treasury Editions with SUPERMAN vs. THE FANTASTIC FOUR.”
“There’s been more than 25 years since DC published their last original Treasury Edition—double size of a regular comic book!” added Redondo. “So, having the chance to participate on this is something really special, and I’m really giving my best for it to be special.”
“This current project, SUPERMAN TREASURY 2025: HERO FOR ALL, is our attempt at trying to recapture the spirit of what made those earlier, epic projects something that we remember with such fondness,” continued Jurgens. “We have a grand story that is wide in scope, action and visual drama that also takes a deeper look at Superman's character and verifies his status as the preeminent hero in the DCU. The larger page size gives the artist every opportunity to push the scope of the story into something that explodes off the page and that is just what Bruno Redondo is working overtime to do. He has a wide range of characters and plenty of big story moments to play with and he’s going all-out to give readers a visual treat that they’re sure to love. In short, the idea of a ‘Treasury Sized Edition’ feels like the perfect way to acknowledge and celebrate this Summer of Superman.”
When a vicious armada of extraterrestrial extremists launches an all-out invasion of Earth, only Superman can stand in the way of total annihilation. But there’s something different about this attack—it’s deadly from both without and within. This is a tale so titanic it must be told at treasury size (10 1/8" x 13 5/16") to celebrate the Summer of Superman in style! This must-have one-shot features a main cover by Redondo and will feature images and info from the highly anticipated Superman movie from DC Studios and Warner Bros. Pictures, a movie-themed photo variant cover, a variant cover by Dan Jurgens, and a stunning “friends and foes” variant cover by Scott Koblish (New History of the DC Universe).
Two-Time Pulitzer Prize Finalist Matt Bors and a Slew of Superstar Artists Launch An Ongoing TOXIC AVENGER Comic Book Series from AHOY Comics
Issue #1 Will Land in Stores Ahead of the TOXIC AVENGER Film Starring Peter Dinklage as Toxie
(April 1, 2025) You remember him from the classic films, animated series, and action figures-now America's grossest icon returns to comics! A train hauling chemical waste derails in Tromaville, NJ, transforming bullied teenager Melvin Junko into the massive, mop-wielding Toxic Avenger. Pulitzer finalist Matt Bors (The Nib, Justice Warriors) and artist Fred Harper (Highball) deliver a Toxie reboot brewed especially for the 21st century!
Acclaimed Syracuse-based comic book publisher AHOY Comics is launching THE TOXIC AVENGER COMICS, an all-new ongoing series masterminded by THE NIB founder and two-time Pulitzer Prize finalist Matt Bors, who will be writing the series. Each issue of THE TOXIC AVENGER COMICS’ first story arc will be illustrated by a different artist and showcase a different genre. The series launches in July with a horror-themed story written by Bors and illustrated by Fred Harper, with covers by Harper and Bors as well as a sketch variant cover and a trading card variant cover. Subsequent issues will be told in the tradition of crime comics (issue 2), sci-fi comics (issue 3), romance comics (issue 4) and fantasy comics (issue 5), with each drawn by a different top secret and yet-to-be-announced artist. THE TOXIC AVENGER COMICS’ debut comes in advance of the action-packed Toxic Crusaders beat 'em up videogame from Retroware and the highly anticipated Cineverse theatrical release of The Toxic Avenger film starring Peter Dinklage as Toxie on Labor Day weekend.
“When I first approached Lloyd Kaufman and Troma about reviving the Toxic Avenger in comics, I wasn't modest,” said Bors. “I pitched a new origin, outrageous new characters, and a fully mapped-out, mopped-up, multi-year storyline. Now, Fred Harper and I have been given the green light to go fucking nuts.”
In the debut issue’s self-contained horror story, kids are disappearing from Toxie’s hometown of Tromaville, NJ. Did they simply run away from the chemically polluted town? Or is the real explanation even more frightening? Each issue of the first story arc — issues one through five — will feature the first appearance of an entirely new character and have a two-page story illustrated by Fred Harper that sets up the second story, “Toxie Goes to Washington” that starts with issue six.
AHOY Comics recently announced plans for a Toxic Mess Summer, which kicks off with the publication of THE TOXIC AVENGER (tpb) in bookstores on April 1, 2025. In May, a slew of incredible artists and writers will team up for for THE TOXIC AVENGER PINUP SPECIAL, followed by an ambitious mini-series, TOXIE TEAM-UP, that will launch in June and find Toxie rubbing elbows with characters from a number of other fan-favorite AHOY titles, including Jesus Christ (from the pages of Russell and Pace’s controversial SECOND COMING), the Jersey Devil (from the creature-packed anthology PROJECT: CRYPTID), Acid Chimp (from Russell, Bryce Ingman and Peter Krause’s absurdly hilarious MY BAD), Dragonflyman and Stinger (from Tom Peyer and Jamal Igle’s multiversal saga THE WRONG EARTH), and Swamp Cop and Schitt (from Bors’ and Ben Clarkson’s satirical smash hit JUSTICE WARRIORS).
The Toxic Avenger first appeared in the 1984 cult classic film about a mutated weakling mopping up a corporate mess, directed by Lloyd Kaufman and Michael Herz and starring Mitchell Cohen. Having already spawned five films, a cartoon, action figures, a musical, and a Marvel comic book series, the Toxic Avenger is a pop culture icon—and he is also perfect for AHOY Comics, a Syracuse-based publisher dedicated to satirizing horror, space opera, social satire, sword & sorcery, and superhero stories. TOXIC AVENGER is the second AHOY comic book series from Bors, following the release of JUSTICE WARRIORS, his critically-acclaimed comic with artist Ben Clarkson which follows two police officers, Swamp Cop and Schitt, stationed in the world's first perfect city.
“Toxic Avenger has always been a genre mashup of horror, comedy, and superhero,” said Bors. “I wanted to lean hard onto what stories are possible with this specific character in this specific medium — comics. In these first five issues, we are delving into the crime rotting the heart of Tromaville, the romance between Toxie and his girlfriend Yvonne, the science fiction of mutant powers, and more. Me — and the talented they won't let me announce just yet! — are adding new mutated heroes, demented villains, and horny losers to every single issue. These are characters you will see again, as we lay the groundwork for a real ongoing series with years of stories ahead.”
“When I started writing the new Toxic Avenger series, I knew we could build this into some audacious comic crossovers,” said Matt Bors. “Toxie’s mutant gore and subversive charm make him the perfect foil to face off with the police of the polluted world of Justice Warriors.”
“Having already spawned five films, a cartoon, action figures, a musical, and a Marvel comic book series, the Toxic Avenger is a pop culture icon,” said AHOY Comics Editor-in-Chief Tom Peyer. “The only question is: why doesn’t he have a church of his own?”
“Scrappy, messy, and a little chaotic … am I talking about Toxie or AHOY?” asked AHOY Comics Senior Editor Sarah Litt. “Either way, two great tastes that taste better together.”
Here’s what folks are saying about Bors’ and Harper’s THE TOXIC AVENGER:
“An absolute delight… Matt Bors[‘s] unique style of earnestly sardonic sociopolitical commentary sets the perfect tone for artist Fred Harper's grotesquely cartoonish line work.” —BOING BOING
"A towering achievement, as important as it is entertaining!! Tear up your lame Superman and Spider-Man comics, the definitive hero for the 21st Century has arrived! Fun, funny, and cleverly told, a worthy successor to the film series, and another winner from AHOY." — John Layman, The Scorched, Titans
“An explosion of mighty storytelling…
Fred Harper's art is gross, vivid, stylized, and always capable of robust world-building. Matt Bors' story is a testament to how you do an adaptation with respect, power, and humanity.”—AIPT
“The art is the star of this show from page one…. Don’t miss it.” —COMICS BEAT
"Perfectly captures the perverse indie vibes of the original. Reminds me of how I couldn't quite believe what I was seeing when I saw the films for the first time." — Mark Russell, Second Coming, Batman: Dark Age
“[A] smash-hit… It’s Tromaville at its most Tromaville-y… Fred Harper’s artwork is a grotesque tour de force, perfectly aligning with the story’s over-the-top ambiance…
This radioactive revival is operating at full throttle.” —COMIC CRUSADERS
"I'm so happy Melvin is back and more relevant than ever.
Is it just me or does Fred draw him kinda hot, too? What a hunk." — Sophie Campbell, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
“A version that amps up the grotesque and slaps on the ‘certified: fun’ sticker… The result is evolving The Toxic Crusader into more of a three-dimensional radioactive dispenser of justice.” —MY KIND OF WEIRD
“Matt Bors and Fred Harper bring the irradiated, insectoid action and sharp political satire.” —GRAPHIC POLICY
"An old favorite gets the toxic reboot it deserves!
Thank you Matt Bors and Fred Harper! Consider me Tromatized!" — Keith Knight, The K Chronicles, Woke
“Each panel feels like an adventure of its own…
This is one of the most fun series in all of comics today.”—NERD INITIATIVE
THE TOXIC AVENGER COMICS #1 will land in comic shops on July 9, 2025. Meanwhile, THE TOXIC AVENGER graphic novel hits stores on April Fool’s Day, followed by THE TOXIC AVENGER PINUP SPECIAL on May 14, 2025 and issue #1 of the TOXIE TEAM-UP series on June 11, 2025.
First Look: One Has Fallen, One Will Rise in TRANSFORMERS #22 By Daniel Warren Johnson and Jorge Corona
The Best-Selling Energon Universe Story Continues HERE!
"There’s never a doubt at the high level of quality with this series." - Nerd Initiative
"Daniel Warren Johnson continues to hit the right mix of new ideas and nostalgia." - Fanbase Press
LOS ANGELES 06/12/2025 — Today Skybound and Image Comics, in collaboration with leading games, IP and toy company Hasbro, revealed interior pages and the lineup of variant covers for TRANSFORMERS #22, the two-time Eisner Award winning series from writer Daniel Warren Johnson (Extremity, Do a Powerbomb), artist Jorge Corona (Middlewest), and colorist Mike Spicer (Stillwater, Murder Falcon). The next chapter of the tentpole Energon Universe story will be available on shelves in comic book shops on July 9, 2025.
ONE HAS FALLEN. ONE WILL RISE. The Autobots and Decepticons prepare to make their final stand—and this time there’s no turning back.
In addition to the main cover by Daniel Warren Johnson and series colorist Mike Spicer, the lineup of variant covers for TRANSFORMERS #22 includes an open-to-order cover B by series artist Jorge Corona & Mike Spicer, a 1:10 incentive variant continuing the connecting cover series by David Nakayama, a 1:25 incentive variant by Manabu Yashiro, and a 1:50 incentive variant by Pye Parr.
TRANSFORMERS is the cornerstone of the Energon Universe, the crown jewel of the historic collaboration between Hasbro and Skybound, who has introduced a brand-new era of the TRANSFORMERS and G.I. JOE franchises in one shared comic book universe. Other Energon Universe titles include the ongoing series Void Rivals by writer Robert Kirkman (Invincible, The Walking Dead), artist Conor Hughes (White Ash, The Game), and colorist Patricio Delpeche (The Sandman Universe: Nightmare Country) and G.I. JOE by writer Joshua Williamson (Superman, Dark Ride), artist Andrea Milana (Cobra Commander), and colorist Lee Loughridge (Universal Monsters: The Mummy). Fans should expect can’t-miss moments from every issue of the Energon Universe, as secrets are unveiled along the path to answering the BIG questions from some of the biggest franchises in comics today.
Extended Preview: The Misadventures of Ballpoint Are Perfectly Penned in TRANSFORMERS: WORST BOT EVER
The TRANSFORMERS Graphic Novel for Young Readers Arrives July 2025 from Skybound Comet
"TRANSFORMERS: Worst Bot Ever is on point. Ballpoint that is! My new favorite TRANSFORMERS bot. Smitty crafts a fun and heartfelt story about self-discovery, while Marz Jr. designs a stunning book, perfectly bringing this tale to life.” - Nick Dragotta (Absolute Batman, East of West)
"Just when I thought it wasn't possible to make me love TRANSFORMERS more, along comes something completely unique but with everything you want from a TRANSFORMERS story." - Robert Kirkman (Void Rivals, Invincible)
LOS ANGELES 04/07/2025 – Today Skybound Comet, in collaboration with Image Comics and leading games, IP and toy company Hasbro, revealed a new look at interior pages from TRANSFORMERS: Worst Bot Ever - Meet Ballpoint, the first book in a new series of OGNs from writer Brian “Smitty” Smith (Pea, Bee, and Jay) and artist Marz Jr. (Void Rivals cover artist).
Middle grade readers will be introduced to the misadventures of the bot who is mightier than the sword with the arrival of TRANSFORMERS: Worst Bot Ever - Meet Ballpoint. The OGN will be available everywhere books are sold in July 2025 from Skybound Comet, the original graphic novel imprint aimed at Young Adult (Ages 12+) and Middle Grade (Ages 8-12) audiences, but sure to captivate readers of all ages.
The Decepticons are known for being bad...but Ballpoint is truly the worst –the biggest failure of them all. After the latest attempt to take down the Autobots goes horribly wrong, he’s kicked out of the Decepticons, for good! Will Ballpoint be able to prove his worth by defeating the Autobots all by himself? Or will he keep failing and find that being the “best” is...More than Meets the Eye?
This inaugural offering in Skybound’s young readers line Skybound Comet is an integral component of its overall comics partnership with Hasbro. Other key components include Skybound’s Energon Universe comic book series (Void Rivals, the two-time Eisner Award winning TRANSFORMERS, and G.I. JOE) and miniseries (Duke, Cobra Commander, Scarlett and Destro), Skybound’s reboot of G.I. JOE: A Real American Hero, and Skybound’s ongoing publishing of the TRANSFORMERS and G.I. JOE: A Real American Hero compendiums.
The Skybound Comet slate also includes the upcoming release of Family Force V (SBN: 978-1-5343-4033-6 | SRP $16.99), the prismatic YA graphic novel about your new favorite alien fighting family by Matt Braly (Disney’s Amphibia) and artist Ainsworth Lin, coming in June 2025; Clementine Book Three (ISBN: 978-1-5343-9737-8 | SRP $14.99), the highly anticipated and heart-wrenching finale of the Eisner-Award nominated YA trilogy by Tillie Walden (On a Sunbeam, Spinning), coming in July 2025; and Pizza Witch (ISBN: 978-1-5343-2796-2 | SRP $16.99), the graphic novel that cooks up a delicious world of magic for a wide range of readers by Sarah Graley (Glitch, Our Super Adventure) and Stef Purenins (Our Super Adventure), coming in September 2025.
UNCHOSEN #1 (Of 4, Image, $3.99)
Replies
I'm certain I'll buy the Jay and Silent Bob/ Archie team-up.... And spend a quarter of it thinking, "this would have been so much more relevant if they'd released it a quarter-century ago."
Ha! That's a good point. It's also a weird mix, in that the Archie gang is known for being wholesome, while Jay & Silent Bob are sort of the reverse.
Meanwhile, I just found some more stuff marked July 9. (Some duplication.)
ACTION COMICS #1088
Action Comics #1088 Takes DC’s Boy of Steel to Smallville High
Writer Mark Waid and artist Skylar Patridge continue the evolution of the Boy of Steel into the protector of Metropolis and Earth’s greatest hero.
A lot can change in a summer, especially for Clark Kent, a.k.a. Superboy. After a disastrous debut in Metropolis, the Kents are worried that the world is not ready for their son and will do whatever it takes to protect him. Little do they know, they’re about to send him to one of the most terrifying places on the planet…Smallville High! Action Comics #1088 features a main cover by Ryan Sook, with variant covers by series artist Patridge, Leonardo Romero, and Karl Kerschl.
SUPERGIRL #3
SUPERGIRL#3 Debuts…Satan Girl!?
Writer/artist Sophie Campbell gives readers the team-up they never saw coming in this series featuring an all-new Maiden of Might!
Supergirl and the daughter of Lex Luthor, Lena, have come together to battle a common enemy posing as Midvale’s very own Supergirl! Will Lena’s brains and Kara’s brawn be a match for the super-powered supergenius from Kandor? It’s Supergirl versus Supergirl in a fight for the ages! Plus, the debut of Satan Girl?! In addition to interior art, Campbell provides the main and variant covers with Stanley “Artgerm” Lau, Homare, and Joëlle Jones.
IMPERIAL #2 (OF 4) is by Jonathan Hickman and Iban Coello & Federico Vicentini. The intergalactic order was fractured forever this week in IMPERIAL #1, the debut issue of the four-part event series that revolutionizes cosmic storytelling in the Marvel Universe! Written by visionary creator Jonathan Hickman, known for his redefining work on the Avengers, Fantastic Four, and the X-Men, and drawn by Iban Coello and Federico Vicentini, two of the industry’s most acclaimed artistic talents, IMPERIAL serves as the foundation for an entire landscape of new galaxy-spanning series and packed with bold developments for characters like Black Panther, Hulk, the Guardians of the Galaxy, Nova, and many more. Today, eager fans can see a never-before-seen preview of the next issue, IMPERIAL #2, on sale July 9, along with all six covers. In IMPERIAL #1, tension and distrust spread across the cosmos after the startling assassination of various intergalactic leaders. In IMPERIAL #2, the fire of war are lit and there’s no turning back! As Nova and Star-Lord race to discover the truth behind these evil acts, a monumental conflict ignites between the Intergalactic Empire of Wakanda, the Shi’ar and more.
CHECK OUT ALL THE COVERS FOR MARVEL SWIMSUIT SPECIAL: FRIENDS, FOES & RIVALS #1, WHICH INCLUDES A REDEEM CODE FOR A BONUS MARVEL RIVALS SKIN!
The legendary Marvel Swimsuit Special returns on July 9 in MARVEL SWIMSUIT SPECIAL: FRIENDS, FOES & RIVALS #1!
In addition to stunning pinups of your favorite heroes soaking up the sun, the one-shot will debut designs for upcoming Marvel Rivals costumes and a digital redeem code to unlock “The Unlimited Thing” skin in the game!
New York, NY— June 4, 2025 — The Marvel Swimsuit Special, the iconic annual one-shot that featured breathtaking artwork of Marvel characters in beach attire and swimwear, makes its long-demanded return this July in MARVEL SWIMSUIT SPECIAL: FRIENDS, FOES & RIVALS #1! The one-shot will have an overarching story written by Tim Seeley and Tony Fleecs and drawn by superstar artist Nick Bradshaw that stars Earth’s Mightiest fashion designer, Janet Van Dyne, aka the Wasp along with unforgettable, instantly-iconic imagery from top artists including Mirka Andolfo, Mahmud Asrar, Joshua Cassara, Nic Klein, Aaron Kuder, Ron Lim, David Marquez, Marguerite Sauvage, Luciano Vecchio, and Ryusei Yamada. Plus, the issue will spotlight designs for new costumes coming soon to the Marvel Rivals, the mega popular multiplayer video game from Marvel Games and NetEase Games, and come with a bonus digital redeem code for “The Unlimited Thing” skin to use in the game!
Roxxon Comics is at it again when they release their own UNAUTHORIZED SWIMSUIT SPECIAL!
Wasp is on the case and seizes the opportunity for Marvel’s heroes to do their OWN swimwear fashion shoot all over the world! But fear not, True Believers, we know what you’re REALLY here for! This super-sized special features splash page after splash page of gorgeous art, but with a story so you can pretend you’re “reading it for the articles”…
THE UNCHOSEN #1 (OF 4, IMAGE) is by David Marquez (Uncanny X-Men, Miles Morales).
Thirteen-year-old Aida wakes in a city laid waste by a massive explosion—a scene of devastation that SHE caused. Pursued by rival forces wielding incredible powers, she must discover who truly wants to help her, who wants to control her, and the truth behind her own mysterious past.
"Going back to the very beginning, Image has a long tradition of providing fan-favorite talent creative freedom and a platform for greater success after they’ve done their time at Marvel, so it’s always exciting to welcome someone as incredible as David into the fold," said Eric Stephenson, Chief Creative Officer and Publisher at Image Comics. "My first exposure to David’s work was All-New X-Men, but he’s done just about everything at Marvel—Spider-Man, Iron Man, Avengers, Guardians of the Galaxy—before returning to the X-Office to help Gail Simone turn Uncanny X-Men into one of last year’s biggest relaunches, and it has been amazing to watch him go from awesome to even more awesome along the way! The UnChosen is the logical next next step in his creative journey—we’re going to need some new superlatives!"
Marquez added: "Action. Magic. Drama. The UnChosen is the comic I couldn’t find—so I made it! A high-octane fusion of fantasy, sci-fi, and superheroics with bold world building and big stakes."
PREDATOR: BLACK, WHITE & BLOOD #1 (OF 4)
Story: Joe Kelly, Eliot Rahal & Sarah Gailey. Art: Álvaro López, Brian Level & Fran Galán.
THE PREDATOR'S MOST TERRIFYING HUNTS REVEALED IN PREDATOR: BLACK, WHITE & BLOOD!
This May, all-star comic creators deliver new thrilling tales set in the Predator universe in PREDATOR: BLACK, WHITE & BLOOD, the latest installment in Marvel’s popular anthology line that spotlights violent storytelling in black, white and blood red.
Marvel’s Black, White & Blood comics are where superstar creators can fully unleash pop culture’s deadliest characters in shocking tales dramatically depicted solely in black, white, and blood red! This May, this epic format spotlights the brutal exploits of the galaxy’s most feared hunter in PREDATOR: BLACK, WHITE & BLOOD! Across four blood-soaked issues, the fiercest kills the spaceways have ever seen are brought to life by some of the industry’s most exciting talents. Set across different periods of Predator history and featuring a wide variety of Yautja and settings, these stories are must-read for Predator and comics fans alike!
Here’s what to expect from the debut issue:
This was a pleasant surprise!
I probably would have picked Archie Meets Jay & Silent Bob as my "Pick of the Week" if you hadn't headlined it, but there are a few other contenders here.
Do we know how or when Clark Kent resumed having a past in which he was once Superboy?
I think Action Comics #1087 might be it.
While I was researching the answer to your question (the old fashioned way), I came across Supergirl #36-46, 49-50, so I will soon be able to resume the "PAD Supergirl" discussion (once I track down copies of #47-48, that is).
Cone to think of it, it must be a new development.
Mark Waid gave us the 2020s origin of Mon-El just a few months ago, and it involved a young Clark usina the red and blue ahead of schedule.
I probably would have picked Archie Meets Jay & Silent Bob as my "Pick of the Week" if you hadn't headlined it.
I’d love to take credit for that, but the books are in alphabetical order and “Archie” just happened to come first.