Get ready for a comic book revelation! The long-lost final chapters of a DC legend are finally seeing the light of day.
At the recent New York Comic-Con, DC Comics dropped a bombshell announcement for fans. Among the new series set to launch under their revived 'Vertigo' imprint, one story stands out as a decades-old dream come true.
'Swamp Thing 1989' is the title of this highly anticipated release, and it's a continuation of Rick Veitch's iconic 'Swamp Thing' run. DC Executive Editor Chris Conroy promised a seamless integration, allowing fans to complete their collections as if the original run had never ended.
But here's where it gets intriguing: the reason for the delay is a story in itself. 'Morning of the Magician' was set to feature Swamp Thing traveling back in time to meet Jesus Christ, an idea that sparked controversy within DC's ranks.
According to Veitch, Swamp Thing would have appeared before Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, a bold and imaginative concept. The story was fully prepared, with artwork by Michael Zulli, but it faced opposition from religious employees at DC. Jenette Kahn, DC's President/Editor-in-Chief at the time, expressed concerns about potential offense to readers.
The story was shelved, and Veitch's departure left the 'Swamp Thing' universe in a state of limbo. But now, decades later, Veitch is getting his chance to finish what he started, and it's clear that this time, there's no holding back.
Swamp Thing's journey is about to intersect with one of history's most influential figures.
'Vertigo' itself is a fascinating imprint within DC Comics. Founded in 1993 by Karen Berger, it became a haven for mature, creator-driven comics. It's the home of beloved series like 'Preacher' and 'Y: The Last Man', pushing the boundaries of what comic books could be.
After a brief hiatus, Vertigo made a comeback in 2024, recruiting top talent like Ram V and Deniz Camp. This revival promises to continue the legacy of innovative storytelling.
'Swamp Thing', created by Len Wein and Bernie Wrightson, has always been a unique part of the DC universe. While it shares a world with characters like Batman, its tone and themes often veer into the strange and romantic, especially under the guidance of writers like Alan Moore.
Moore's run on 'Swamp Thing' transformed the series, giving it a new origin and a deeper, more philosophical direction. Veitch's continuation promises to build on this legacy, and the concept of 'Morning of the Magician' certainly hints at a thought-provoking conclusion.
'Swamp Thing 1989' is set to publish in 2026, and it's a release that comic book enthusiasts have been eagerly awaiting.
So, what do you think? Is this a story that DC fans have been missing out on for too long, or is the religious controversy a valid reason for the delay? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
