Seth A. Romo
King Features Syndicate, a unit of Hearst and home to some of the world’s most popular entertainment characters, today announced a master publishing partnership with Mad Cave Studios to develop a full line of new narratives, comics reprints and graphic novels starring its iconic hero Flash Gordon. The initial Flash Gordon stories are slated to be released in 2024.
Flash Gordon, an iconic American comic strip created and originally drawn by Alex Raymond, has become a timeless symbol of thrilling space adventures and heroic exploits. Since its debut in 1934, Flash Gordon has captured the imagination of readers worldwide with its dynamic storytelling, captivating artwork, and memorable characters.
Under this partnership, expect thrilling escapades, imaginative worlds, and epic storytelling as Flash Gordon once again takes center stage in the world of comics and graphic novels.
King Features and Mad Cave Studios will not only bring new and original Flash Gordon content to eager fans but will also ensure the preservation and availability of timeless classics.
Additionally, Mad Cave Studios, through their middle-grade imprint, Papercutz, will look to introduce Flash Gordon to the next generation through a young readers program. This collaboration presents a unique opportunity to unite fans of all ages in their love for Flash Gordon.
“As one of the first action heroes Flash Gordon has always been powerhouse in the comics universe,’ said King Features’ Licensing Director, Christina Nix Lynch. “We’re delighted to have a partner like Mad Cave Studios on board who are true Flash fans as well as publishing experts. This program will bring a long-awaited, regular stream of new and legacy content to generations of readers.”
Mark Irwin, Mad Cave Senior Vice President, added “From the incredible art of Alex Raymond to the adventures of the Defenders of the Earth, and on to the cult classic Sam Jones-led film, Flash Gordon is an integral part of both the history of comics and the actual DNA of storytelling. Mad Cave and King Features are not only happy to be working together to bring Flash to our readers but also to grow the Flash Gordon legacy.”
Allison Pond, CMO, Mad Cave Studios, added, “We are thrilled to announce the official partnership between Mad Cave Studios and King Features in publishing Flash Gordon comics and graphic novels. We are honored to collaborate with King Features to continue the legacy of this iconic series and deliver exciting adventures to readers of all ages.”
About Flash Gordon Comics:
Few comic strips have captured readers’ imaginations like Flash Gordon. Originated in 1934 by legendary comic-strip artist Alex Raymond, Flash Gordon has set the standard for science-fiction adventure, even inspiring such modern-day classics as Star Wars.
For more seven decades, loyal fans have explored the stars with the comics\’ most famous intergalactic adventurer, his female companion Dale Arden, and scientist, Dr. Hans Zarkov.
In addition to the comic strip, Flash has also starred in a live-action serial, a radio show, novels, comic books, and animated cartoons, and he even appeared on his own U.S. postage stamp.
About King Features:
King Features is a premier producer and distributor of the world’s most iconic intellectual properties and a leader in classic character licensing and franchise development. With one of the longest-running consumer products programs in the industry, King Features’ portfolio includes world-renowned pop culture brands such as Popeye®, Cuphead, Flash Gordon™, The Phantom™, Hägar the Horrible, Moomin, Prince Valiant® and Mandrake the Magician. King Features produced the Emmy nominated series The Cuphead Show! with Netflix Animation which debuted in 2022. As content syndication specialists, the company distributes beloved comics such as Blondie, Beetle Bailey®, Mutts™ and dozens of others as well as columns, editorial cartoons and puzzles across multiple platforms and content providers around the globe. King Features is part of Hearst Newspapers, which publishes 24 dailies and 52 weeklies, including the Houston Chronicle, San Francisco Chronicle and Times Union (Albany, New York), and operates local digital marketing services and directories.
About Mad Cave Studios:
Driven by madness and committed to quality. Mad Cave Studios provides quality entertainment with a fresh take on an array of genres. From fantasy and action to sci-fi and horror, Mad Cave publishes stories that resonate with unapologetic and authentic audiences.
