PORTLAND, OR (May 23, 2024) – This summer, EC Comics is making a triumphant return with Oni Press, and while times have changed, the legendary lettering remains! Oni Press is thrilled to announce that the acclaimed letterer Richard Starkings, known for his Eisner Award-nominated work, will be part of the revival of the infamous EC Comics line. He’ll bring back the classic “Leroy” lettering style in July’s EPITAPHS FROM THE ABYSS #1 and August’s CRUEL UNIVERSE #1, redefining it for the modern era.
COVER A BY LEE BERMEJO
COVER B BY ANDREA SORRENTINO WITH DAVE STEWART
Richard Starkings: A Legendary Career
With a career spanning over four decades, Richard Starkings has shaped the visual aesthetics of countless comic series. His work on iconic titles like Alan Moore & Brian Bolland’s BATMAN: THE KILLING JOKE, Kurt Busiek & Alex Ross’ MARVELS, and Jeph Loeb & Tim Sale’s BATMAN: THE LONG HALLOWEEN has left an indelible mark on the comics industry. Starkings is also the creative force behind the long-running Image Comics series ELEPHANTMEN, which has earned multiple Eisner Award nominations since its 2006 debut.
Starkings’ Contribution to EC’s Resurgence
Joining an impressive roster of comic talents, Starkings will work on EPITAPHS FROM THE ABYSS and CRUEL UNIVERSE alongside writers like Jason Aaron, Brian Azzarello, and Rodney Barnes, and artists such as Tyler Crook and Peter Krause. Starkings will be responsible for reviving the “Leroy” lettering style, a hallmark of EC Comics from its 1950s heyday.
A New Era for EC Comics
“We’re committed to bringing the essence of EC’s storytelling into 2024 without merely replicating the past,” said Oni Press President & Publisher Hunter Gorinson. “The original Leroy lettering style is a crucial element, and having Richard Starkings on board to oversee this aspect is a true honor.”
Upcoming Releases: EPITAPHS FROM THE ABYSS #1 and CRUEL UNIVERSE #1
EPITAPHS FROM THE ABYSS #1, hitting shelves on July 24th, features four standalone horror stories from top-tier creators like Brian Azzarello and Stephanie Phillips. The first issue will also introduce a new lineup of horror hosts.
CRUEL UNIVERSE #1, available on August 7th, delves into bizarre tales of time and space, with contributions from Corinna Bechko, Matt Kindt, and more. Each issue promises 40 pages of cosmic adventures and otherworldly storytelling.
COVER A BY GREG SMALLWOOD
COVER B BY J.H. WILLIAMS III
EC Comics: A Legacy Reborn
Founded in 1944 and rebranded as Entertaining Comics under William M. Gaines, EC Comics has been a cornerstone of American pop culture. Known for titles like TALES FROM THE CRYPT and MAD MAGAZINE, EC’s stories combined horror, science fiction, and satire to critique societal issues. Despite being shut down by the Comics Code Authority in 1956, EC’s influence endured through MAD Magazine and numerous adaptations.
Today, EC’s classic stories are available through publishers like Dark Horse Comics and Fantagraphics. In 2024, the collaboration with Oni Press marks the first new EC Comics titles in nearly 70 years.
EPITAPHS FROM THE ABYSS #1 (of 5)
Written by: Brian Azzarello, Chris Condon, J. Holtham, and Stephanie Phillips
Art by: Jorge Fornes, Phil Hester, Peter Krause, and Vlad Legostaev
Cover A: Lee Bermejo
Cover B: Andrea Sorrentino with Dave Stewart
On Sale: July 24, 2024 | $4.99 (Standard) | $7.99 (Foil) | 40 pages | Full Color
Order Deadline: May 30, 2024 | Final Order Cutoff:** July 1, 2024
CRUEL UNIVERSE #1 (of 5)
Written by: Corinna Bechko, Chris Condon, Matt Kindt, and Ben H. Winters
Art by: Jonathan Case, Kano, Artyom Topilin, and Caitlin Yarsky
Cover A: Greg Smallwood
Cover B: J.H. Williams III
On Sale: August 7, 2024 | $4.99 (Standard) | $7.99 (Foil) | 40 pages | Full Color
Order Deadline: June 27, 2024 | Final Order Cutoff:** July 15, 2024
About Oni Press
Founded in 1997, Oni Press is a leading publisher of award-winning comic books and graphic novels, known for titles like Scott Pilgrim and The Sixth Gun. In 2019, Oni Press merged with Lion Forge Comics to form the Oni-Lion Forge Publishing Group, now a part of Polarity, a global media company. Oni-Lion Forge publishes over 60 original and licensed graphic novels annually.
About EC Comics
EC Comics, the originator of TALES FROM THE CRYPT and MAD MAGAZINE, has been a major force in American pop culture for over seven decades. Renowned for its groundbreaking storytelling and critique of societal issues, EC’s influence continues to be felt across generations. The new partnership with Oni Press marks a significant chapter in EC’s storied history.
With these exciting new releases, EC Comics is set to captivate readers once again, blending the classic with the contemporary in a thrilling resurgence that honors its rich legacy.
