Get ready comic book fans! Rob Liefeld is bringing back Youngblood, the legendary superhero comic that helped launch Image Comics back in the 1990s!
Youngblood's Epic Return
This isn't just any comeback; it's a huge moment for comic book history. Youngblood was one of the original Image Comics and defined what was possible for creator-owned comics. Liefeld himself called the characters his "absolute passion," hinting that this reunion is going to be huge.
The original run ended in 2018 after a long history for the series, which first came out in 1992. So many readers, from all over the globe, know this iconic title. It's been seven years, but it feels like forever! This revival comes after Liefeld wraps up one final Deadpool story for Marvel.
Image Comics and its Impact
Image Comics changed everything back in 1992. Before then, Marvel and DC were the big players. Image stepped in to create a whole new option, which made a huge impact! While other series like Spawn and Savage Dragon also grew in popularity, Youngblood was the one that kicked everything off and it helped to set the foundation of creator-owned content, making a name for these legendary founders.
It’s pretty monumental that Liefeld's returning to Youngblood after all this time. He said himself it’s a great feeling to return to such loved characters!
A New Era for Youngblood
Expect big things with this return! This isn't just a new series, they're hinting at additional "merchandise and media"! Liefeld and Scott Mitchell Rosenberg (a key figure from Image's early days) are teaming up again, and they’re thrilled! Rosenberg explained it this way: it’s as exciting as the original launch. The new Youngblood is expected to come out in 2025.
They also noted how successful these characters have been as they showed up in over 100 million comic books.
The Impact on the Industry
Even Image Comics' Chief Creative Officer, Eric Stephenson, jumped in to share his excitement, commenting how Youngblood was a monumental title for the publisher!
He further elaborated saying that this original book, was a pioneer in the comic world and even more significantly for those who created their own titles. This new era of Youngblood is not only a chance for Liefeld to create his next memorable comic. It's a fresh start to really see an increase of interest in other original books and series! Fans with 1990s nostalgia are pumped and comic book lovers may just rediscover these series once more. Liefeld has an important legacy among these comic lovers, something that might even surprise younger comic fans, showing a completely fresh, powerful new perspective about Image Comics!
What to Expect
While all details are under wraps for the upcoming show, there will be additional special editions of Youngblood. Fans have a lot to look forward to and may even have access to a "Youngblood Vault Edition" along with an even older version. Image Comics shared that fans are looking at getting the full history of this series in the very first run in April 2025!
So, while there’s lots more that may not be shared, the anticipation is already growing huge, promising new adventures with Youngblood!