The comic book world is buzzing with several exciting developments this week, from a celebrated writer returning to a flagship Marvel title to the continuation of a beloved Disney animated series and the launch of a new print zine dedicated to the art form. February 17, 2026, brings a mix of nostalgia and fresh content for fans of superheroes, fantasy, and independent comics journalism.
Dan Slott, known for his extensive function on The Amazing Spider-Man and The Superior Spider-Man, is returning to Marvel to helm a new Spectacular Spider-Man: Brand New Day series. This comes after a period writing for DC Comics, including work on Superman, and a recent project with Marvel’s Fantastic Four: First Foes. The new Spider-Man series, slated for release in May, will arrive just ahead of the Spider-Man: Brand New Day theatrical release in July, promising a coordinated multimedia experience for fans. The series will feature art by Marcos To, covers by Phil Jimenez, and backup stories by Marcos Martin.
Slott’s Return to the Web-Slinger
Slott’s previous run on Spider-Man, particularly his work on the “Brand New Day” storyline in 2008, was a pivotal moment for the character, following the controversial “One More Day” arc which altered Peter Parker’s personal life. The upcoming series will see Spider-Man investigating Kingpin’s “Lexicon,” a directory of his criminal activities, with the Punisher also seeking the book. According to reports, the Punisher will also appear in the upcoming Spider-Man: Brand New Day film, creating a direct tie-in between the comic and the movie.
‘The Owl House’ Continues in Graphic Novel Form
Disney’s critically acclaimed animated series, The Owl House, isn’t quite finished. A new original graphic novel, titled The Long-Lived King: An Original The Owl House Graphic Novel, is set to continue the story. Written by Dana Terrace and Mikki Crisostomo, with art by Daun Han, the graphic novel will focus on the character King and his struggle with outliving his friends. The story centers around King accidentally erasing Luz’s memories and the subsequent quest to restore them. The graphic novel is scheduled for release on September 29, 2026, from Hyperion Avenue. Terrace recently launched the animated series Knights of Guinevere through Glitch Studios after a successful pilot on YouTube.
A New Voice in Comics Journalism: ‘The Comics Staple’
Eisner judge Tiffany Babb is launching The Comics Staple, a monthly, print-only zine dedicated to comic book news, reviews, and interviews. The 12-page, black-and-white publication will feature contributions from a diverse group of writers, including David Brothers, Oliver Sava, David Harper, Susana Polo, Rob Salkowitz, Omar Valdivieso, Zack Quaintance, Jim McDermott, and Babb herself. The zine will also include a page dedicated to the history of comics by Dave Baker, creator of Mary Tyler Moorehawk. A Kickstarter campaign for The Comics Staple is launching soon, joining a growing trend of print-focused comics publications like Comics! The Magazine and Benjamin Percy’s The End Times.
These developments signal a vibrant and evolving landscape for comic book fans, with established creators returning to beloved franchises, popular stories continuing in new formats, and a renewed focus on independent, print-based journalism within the comics community. The success of these ventures will likely indicate the continued demand for diverse and engaging content within the industry.
As the release dates for Spectacular Spider-Man: Brand New Day and The Long-Lived King approach, fans can anticipate further details and previews. The launch of The Comics Staple’s Kickstarter will also be a key moment to watch, potentially setting a precedent for the viability of print-focused comics coverage.
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