The Comic Source Podcast

Jace Milam

The Comic Source is the title of a group of podcasts focusing on comic books. It includes The Comic Source Podcast, The Top Cow Chronology Project, Creator Interviews, Convention Coverage and so much more. Grab your headphones and join us today!

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21 episodes
Updated Yesterday

Episodes21

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Yesterday · 21 min
Garret Dillahunt on Lanterns, William Macon & Getting Green Lantern Right
Garret Dillahunt joins Jace to discuss Lanterns, his mysterious role as William Macon, working with Kyle Chandler and Aaron Pierre, and why he believes the series may have found the right tone for Green Lantern. The conversation also dives into Dillahunt's lifelong comic-book fandom, Neal Adams' Green Lantern/Green Arrow, Tom King, Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles, practical effects, San Diego Comic-Con and the challenge of translating the Green Lantern mythology to live action. Chapters- 00:00 – Lanterns & Working With Kyle Chandler 02:31 – Sci-Fi, Comics & Why Lanterns Feels Different 07:29 – William Macon & the Mystery at the Heart of Lanterns 11:03 – Terminator, Practical Effects & the Lanterns Production 15:07 – Comic-Con, Comic Fandom & Sneaking Onto the Show Floor 17:43 – Can Lanterns Finally Crack Green Lantern in Live Action?
Yesterday · 10 min
Che Grayson Teases Selina's Original Wound in Absolute Catwoman | SDCC 2026
Che Grayson joins Jace from the floor of San Diego Comic-Con 2026 to discuss the breakout reception to Absolute Catwoman and the creative freedom that came with reinventing Selina Kyle without the restrictions of traditional continuity. Grayson explains the collaborative process with Scott Snyder, how Bengal's artwork helped establish the book's slick and cinematic identity, and why every gadget, trap and globetrotting set piece is connected to Selina's emotional journey. They also discuss Absolute Cassandra Cain, the deeper history connecting the book's characters and the still-unrevealed "original wound" at the center of Selina's story. Che also shares an update on Exquisite Corpses and the upcoming Fox Mask Killer spin-off. Follow The Comic Source: https://linktr.ee/thecomicsource Chapters 00:00 Selina's Original Wound 00:21 Introduction and *Dark Spaces: Good Deeds* 01:10 The Reception to *Absolute Catwoman* 02:36 Reinventing Selina Without Continuity 03:25 Working with Scott Snyder 05:46 Building a Character-Driven Globetrotting Story 06:15 Absolute Catwoman Versus Absolute Batman 06:51 Working with Bengal 07:35 Bringing a Cinematic Style to Comics 08:33 Cassandra Cain and More Surprises 09:01 Selina Kyle's Unrevealed Original Wound 09:38 *Exquisite Corpses* and *Fox Mask Killer* 10:19 Final Thoughts
Wednesday · 1 hr 58 min
DC Spotlight August 5, 2026 Verity Outsmarts Five Killers, Superman Risks Death to Save Metallo & Lucifer Brings Receipts
Jace and Rocky break down all 10 DC releases for the week of August 5, 2026. In Absolute Superman #22, Superman risks being poisoned by Metallo's kryptonite blood because he knows reaching Christopher Smith emotionally is the only way to end the fight. In Batman #12, Verity is living up to the Pennyworth name as mention of her training and her quick thinking impresses Bruce and Damian while five highly trained killers each demonstrate their methods in a series of murders. Could their missions be tied to Gotham's newest threat? In Absolute Green Lantern #17, Jo confronts Mu as the issue adds more fascinating cosmic concepts, but seventeen issues of undefined terminology leave even the central conflict difficult to understand. But the issue does deliver the origin of Absolute Jessica Cruz and a great scene of Tomar-Re being fired like a bullet. In Adventures of Superman: Book of El #11, even though Superman has been reunited with Osul and Otho, the battle is not over. Kal-El is determined to stop Kryl-Ux even while trying to save him from himself and the grief of losing his family that has twisted his soul. In Deadman #3, Deadman travels through Hell to rescue a soul Rama Kushna says does not belong there, only for him to be shocked when Lucifer shows him proof the soul is where it belongs. The devil's got receipts. In Batgirl #22, Cassandra learns that Victoria was both her childhood friend and rival assassin. Both girls were manipulated by David Cain and Dr. Forget-Me-Not, respectively, in an experiment to build the perfect killer. The resolution for this one feels a little abrupt, but the possibility that Victoria may still be alive hints at more to come for this storyline in the future. In JSA #22, Jim Corrigan refuses to reclaim the Spectre, forcing the Spirit of Vengeance to seek a surprising new host from within the JSA. Kid Eternity fulfills her previously unknown mission to find that host, but turns down the chance to recover her memories and move on to the afterlife so she can remain with the team and continue to make a difference. In Supergirl: Survived #3, Kara's love for Kal drives her to attempt the impossible, using a Blue Lantern ring to recreate Krypton for both Kal-El and Hal Jordan. It's an emotionally powerful moment, but the issue takes an unexpected turn when an Elseworlds version of Mister Mxyzptlk arrives, shifting the story away from the hard sci-fi direction it had been building toward. In Gotham Academy: First Year #6, the final issue reveals more about Olive Silverlock, but the predetermined need to position every character for the beginning of Gotham Academy Vol. 1 leaves the story feeling paint-by-numbers. The rushed maneuvering from the end of issue #4 makes the conclusion feel both overstuffed and choppy, while surprisingly little of consequence actually happens. In 100 Bullets: The U.S. of Anger #2, the issue provides so little usable context that neither a new reader nor someone familiar with the original series can clearly explain who the characters are or what is happening. The series does seem to be appropriately named, though, as the anger the issue is steeped in feels all too real. While the story hasn't come together yet, the simmering anger of the U.S. reflected here feels authentic. They also give a rundown of this week's collected editions, reprints and facsimile releases. As always, all books are ranked from top to bottom and each host gives a Book of the Week pick. 00:00 — DC Week Overview, SDCC Aftermath & Comic Promotion 17:49 — Absolute Superman #22 35:27 — Deadman #3 43:03 — Absolute Green Lantern #17 57:44 — Supergirl: Survived #3 1:04:19 — Batman #12 1:13:51 — Batgirl #22 1:18:18 — Gotham Academy: First Year #6 1:21:19 — Adventures of Superman: Book of El #11 1:29:23 — 100 Bullets: The U.S. of Anger #2 1:37:20 — JSA #22 1:45:42 — Collected Editions, Reprints & Facsimiles 1:53:17 — Rankings & Books of the Week
Tuesday · 13 min
Jeremy Adams Powers Up Aquaman, Rebuilds Green Lantern & Brings Knightfall to Animation
Jeremy Adams joins Jace at San Diego Comic-Con 2026 to discuss the increasingly powerful version of Aquaman currently reshaping Arthur Curry's place in the DC Universe. Jeremy explains why he keeps expanding Aquaman's abilities, how the Justice League is beginning to recognize the threat he could represent, and why the title's readers have become part of a special "Aquaman club." Jeremy also talks about Kyle Rayner's throwback Green Lantern showcase, Kyle's relationship with Odyssey, the return of Jade and Major Force, and upcoming developments that could fundamentally change Green Lantern for years. Finally, Jeremy previews the animated adaptation of Batman: Knightfall, including its violent tone, terrifying portrayal of Bane, appearances by Azrael and Tim Drake, and the challenge of condensing the massive comic storyline into an 85-minute movie. Follow The Comic Source: https://linktr.ee/thecomicsource Chapters 00:00 Introduction from San Diego Comic-Con 00:35 Kyle Rayner's new Green Lantern spotlight 02:15 Jade, Major Force and major Green Lantern changes 02:56 Kyle and Odyssey's relationship 04:45 Aquaman can't be stopped 07:15 Why Jeremy keeps increasing Aquaman's power 09:03 Finding Aquaman's personality and purpose 10:22 The future of Aquaman and the "Aquaman Club" 11:53 Bringing Batman: Knightfall to animation 13:20 Closing
Monday · 20 min
Josh Williamson & Hayden Sherman Design DC's Future | Legion of Super-Heroes Interview
Josh Williamson and Hayden Sherman join Jace to discuss the return of Legion of Super-Heroes. Williamson explains the years-long process that led him to the series, his conversation with Mark Waid, why Superboy needed to return to the center of Legion mythology and why Lightning Lad serves as the emotional point of view for the opening story. Sherman discusses designing the future of the DC Universe, creating different visual languages for the Legion's many planets and drawing inspiration from classic Legion stories, European science-fiction comics, 2000 AD, Ronin, Judge Dredd and Spider-Man 2099. They also discuss introducing the enormous Legion cast gradually, honoring the property's passionate fan community and preserving the hope that has always defined the team. Follow The Comic Source: https://linktr.ee/thecomicsource Chapters 00:00 Pre-Interview Conversation 00:38 Introduction 01:00 Why Josh Williamson Chose Legion of Super-Heroes 03:52 How Hayden Sherman Joined the Series 06:49 Balancing Legion with Absolute Wonder Woman 06:56 Comics, Community and Lightning Lad 12:38 Building the Legion's Character Dynamics 14:04 Designing Distinct Worlds and Cultures 16:49 The Science-Fiction and Comic Influences 19:48 Hope at the Heart of Legion 20:19 Preordering and Final Thoughts
Monday · 29 min
Christopher Cantwell Builds a New Gotham Underworld | Gangs of Gotham, Gotham Central & Lanterns
Christopher Cantwell joins Jace during San Diego Comic-Con 2026 to discuss an ambitious slate of upcoming work spanning Gotham City, the Green Lantern universe and the final frontier. Cantwell begins by discussing his role on the second season of Lanterns. A longtime Green Lantern reader who previously wrote Hal Jordan in Challengers of the Unknown, Cantwell describes the project as the television assignment he would have selected for himself and praises the distinctive approach established by the first season. The conversation then turns to Cantwell's two-issue Gotham Central story within the Bad Seeds event. Gotham's police department has been compromised under Commissioner Vandal Savage, leaving Jim Gordon, Espinosa and a small collection of honest officers attempting to solve a murder while carrying out orders issued by the city's corrupt leadership. That storyline establishes the foundation for Gangs of Gotham. Anarky is placed in Gotham's East End and ordered to unify its gangs before the district is bulldozed. Although he continues to consider himself an opponent of corrupt institutions, the promise of influence forces him to confront whether he still believes his own revolutionary rhetoric or has become another person willing to compromise everything for power. Stephanie Brown is simultaneously operating undercover inside the Street Demons biker gang. She has risen to become the gang's second-in-command, but Batman is the only member of the Bat-family who knows where she is. Cantwell describes a Steph who remains highly capable but is becoming increasingly isolated and resentful as her messages to Bruce go unanswered. Cantwell also explains how the series incorporates established characters including Jim Gordon, Arnold Flass, Harvey Bullock, Holly Robinson, Magpie and the Ten-Eyed Man while creating an entire ecosystem of gangs built around food, fuel, shelter, information and protection. Instead of treating the East End as interchangeable scenery, the series examines how abandoned institutions and limited resources force communities to develop their own hierarchies and systems of survival. The discussion concludes with Cantwell's upcoming Star Trek series, which examines exploration, colonization and the psychological pressure created when a crew enters genuinely uncharted territory. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Lanterns Season 2 03:47 Gotham Central and the Bad Seeds setup 05:49 How Gangs of Gotham begins 07:13 Stephanie Brown undercover 08:07 Anarky, power and hypocrisy 10:57 Jim Gordon and Gotham's honest cops 13:49 Building Gotham beyond Batman 15:18 Why Anarky matters now 18:43 Community, survival and found family 21:01 Batman's absence and Steph's isolation 23:45 Arnold Flass and Gotham's corrupt system 25:53 Holly Robinson and the East End 27:17 Cantwell's new Star Trek series 29:11 Final thoughts and preorder reminder
Monday · 1 hr 57 min
Comic Source Weekly July 29, 2026 | Marvel After Armageddon, Terminal Takes #1 & Absolute DC Expands
Marvel is laying out its future after Avengers: Armageddon, with a new Avengers series from Chip Zdarsky and Marco Checchetto, Maximum X-Men, Eddie Brock reuniting with Venom, new books for Mary Jane Watson and Spider-Woman, and several other major announcements. This week I break down what Marvel's post-Armageddon direction could mean, along with DC launching new ongoing series for Vixen, Static and Steel, the continued expansion of the Absolute Universe, and Terminal #1 reportedly selling 300,000 copies before taking the top spot on the Prana Bestseller list. I also cover the biggest announcements from Image, Skybound, Dark Horse, IDW, Oni Press, Archie, BOOM! Studios, Mad Cave, Ignition Press and San Diego Comic-Con, along with this week's hottest books, two weeks of Prana Top 10 Best Sellers, and the biggest Final Order Cutoff recommendations for August 3. https://linktr.ee/thecomicsource 00:00 Marvel, DC & Terminal Headlines 01:05 Intro and SDCC Catch-Up 04:12 Marvel After Avengers: Armageddon 16:10 Midnight Universe, WEBTOON & Manga 23:22 Spider-Woman, Indiana Jones & Mangaverse 26:26 Muppets, Stormbreakers & Marvel Masterworks 30:57 DC News — Vixen, Static & Steel 36:11 Batman, Gotham & DC Next Level 44:04 The Absolute Universe Expands 54:02 Image Comics & Skybound 01:00:06 Terminal, Battle Beast & Savage Dragon 01:07:58 Dark Horse Comics 01:13:43 IDW & Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 01:17:15 Oni Press & Archie Comics 01:19:32 BOOM!, Mad Cave & Ignition Press 01:27:19 Bill Sienkiewicz Documentary & Eisner Awards 01:32:03 The Warbird Movie Rumor 01:34:36 What Hit 01:37:54 Prana Top 10 — July 15 01:43:30 Prana Top 10 — July 22 01:47:56 Final Order Cutoff 01:55:24 Closing & Comic Source Weekly Shirts News Sources Marvel https://www.marvel.com/articles/comics/maximum-x-men-assemble-avengers-armageddon-aftermath-december-2026 https://www.marvel.com/articles/live-events/sdcc-2026-san-diego-comic-con-all-the-marvel-news-recap https://bleedingcool.com/comics/chip-zdarsky-marco-checchetto-launch-avengers-1-ahead-of-doomsday/ https://bleedingcool.com/comics/the-punisher-will-join-marvels-avengers-in-the-wake-of-armageddon/ https://www.marvel.com/articles/comics/friendly-neighborhood-mary-jane-and-venom-new-comic-series-queen-in-black-aftermath https://bleedingcool.com/comics/spider-woman-ongoing-marvel-series-by-dan-watters-andrea-broccardo/ https://www.marvel.com/articles/comics/indiana-jones-and-the-sword-of-pandemonium-bold-new-era-marvel-comics-december-2026 https://aiptcomics.com/2026/07/30/marvel-webtoon/ https://bleedingcool.com/comics/marvel-comics-launch-a-new-manga-line-in-japan-with-kadokawa-for-2026/ https://aiptcomics.com/2026/07/31/marvel-first-look-marvel-mangaverse-web-of-blood-ghostlock/ https://aiptcomics.com/2026/07/31/marvel-50-years-the-muppet-show-covers/ https://aiptcomics.com/2026/07/31/marvel-autumn-fall-stormbreakers-variant-covers/ https://bleedingcool.com/comics/the-first-new-marvel-masterworks-books-from-clover-press-revealed/ DC https://bleedingcool.com/comics/deniz-camp-reveals-details-of-upcoming-batman-shadow-of-the-bat/ https://www.comicsbeat.com/sdcc-26-dc-announces-absolute-black-canary-and-beyond-ark-m-one-shots-at-absolute-universe-panel/ Image Comics and Skybound https://imagecomics.com/press-releases/rob-liefelds-highly-anticipated-avengelyne-comic-book-set-to-launch-this-october-series-already-in-pre-production-for-adaptation https://www.comicsbeat.com/sdcc-26-robert-kirkman-talks-terminal-invincible-and-transformers-in-robert-kirkman-live/ https://www.comicsbeat.com/sdcc-26-sanford-greene-announces-bitter-root-black-white/ https://imagecomics.com/press-releases/scott-snyder-jocks-horror-masterpiece-gets-expanded-remastered-wytches-vol-1-pledged-edition-this-fall-ahead-of-tv-show-adaptation https://imagecomics.com/press-releases/jaw-dropping-savage-dragon-281-sells-out-at-distributor-instantly-rushed-back-to-print-this-week https://www.comicsbeat.com/sdcc-26-image-unleashes-its-artists-for-a-frank-panel-discussion/ Dark Horse, IDW, Oni and Independents https://www.darkhorse.com/newsfeed/dark-horse-books-presents-stranger-things-the-first-shadow/ https://www.comicsbeat.com/dark-horse-dnd-ongoing/ https://www.comicsbeat.com/sdcc-26-dark-horse-mattel-barbie-comics/ https://www.comicsbeat.com/digest-072326/ Ignition Press, Awards and Industry https://bleedingcool.com/comics/ignition-pavilion-packs-in-five-times-the-capacity-of-hall-h-at-sdcc/ https://bleedingcool.com/comics/2026-eisner-award-winners-announced-at-sdcc/ https://bleedingcool.com/comics/would-keanu-reeves-play-the-lead-in-a-bad-idea-comics-warbird-movie/ https://bleedingcool.com/comics/produce-this-last-nights-bad-idea-comics-san-diego-comic-con-party/ https://www.comicsbeat.com/bad-idea-warbird/
July 31 · 1 hr 14 min
DC Spotlight July 29, 2026 Superman Restores The Legion, Alfred And Pa Kent Save The World's Finest & Batman And Lobo Face The Black Mercy
Jace and Rocky break down all five DC releases for the week of July 29, 2026. DC's Hawk Girl Summer #1 delivers an entertaining mix of standalone stories that give several underused DC characters a chance to shine, including great stories starring The Shining Knight and Kid Eternity. In Batman/Superman: World's Finest 2026 Annual #1, after the Flash, Batman and Superman all become trapped by the same villainous setup, Alfred and Pa Kent are the ones who figure out how to save them. In Justice League: Knightvision #1, Batman and Lex Luthor pursue Prometheus after their shared vision, while his use of Apokoliptian technology plants more seeds for Darkseid's next move against the heroes of the DC Universe. Detective Comics 2026 Annual #1 pairs a comedic Black Mercy story involving Batman and Lobo with a much darker Professor Pyg backup, giving readers two very different but entertaining stories. In Superman 2026 Annual: Year 1000 #1, Superman's decision to restore every version of the Legion gives the Darkseid-controlled Legion a chance at redemption while placing all of the team's different incarnations back on the table. They also discuss San Diego Comic-Con, the convention's lighter slate of major announcements, Jace's upcoming interviews with Joshua Williamson, Hayden Sherman and Christopher Cantwell, and the success of the Ignition Press pavilion. As always, Jace and Rocky rank every reviewed book and reveal their Books of the Week.
July 30 · 38 min
How AI Could Create the Perfect Crime | Zack Kaplan & John J. Pearson Talk Smart Division
Artificial intelligence is changing nearly every industry—but what happens when criminals start using it to commit the perfect crime? Writer Zack Kaplan and Eisner Award-winning artist John J. Pearson join Jace to discuss Smart Division, their new sci-fi thriller from Dark Horse Comics. They talk about building a story around AI-assisted crime, designing two detectives with completely different worldviews, creating traditional painted artwork in a technology-driven story, and why this series feels frighteningly close to reality. If you enjoy grounded science fiction, crime thrillers, and comics that explore where technology could take us next, this is a conversation you won't want to miss. Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thecomicsource Creator Links Zack Kaplan: https://zackkaplan.com John J. Pearson: https://www.instagram.com/johnjpearson https://www.patreon.com/johnjpearson 00:00 Introduction 01:20 What Is The Smart Division? 06:35 Reuniting After Mindset 09:15 Creating the Painted Art Style 12:35 AI, Crime and Giving Up Control 19:05 Designing Will and Stevie 28:10 Two Opposing Worldviews 31:05 The Opening Page and Meaning Behind the Title 35:25 Which Character Do They Relate To? 37:05 Where to Follow the Creators
July 22 · 1 hr 53 min
DC Spotlight July 22, 2026 Absolute Superman Battles King Shazam, Superboy-Prime Faces His Past & Batman Uncovers the Prion Horror: The Comic Source
Jace and Rocky break down all 14 DC releases for the week of July 22, 2026. Green Lantern #37 shows Kyle Rayner and Odyssey both learning you should never feed the trolls when Odyssey's online feud spills into the real world. Harley Quinn #64 reveals the mastermind behind the Harley Quinn Revenge Squad and proves Harley is her own worst enemy. Superman #40 uses Superboy-Prime to show that even after redemption begins, the consequences of your past never disappear. Justice League Unlimited #21 has the League finally turn the tables on Brainiac Queen with a surprise plan from Red Tornado and the Atom, while Batman and Lex learn they have something in common regarding the consequences of the Omega Tournament. Superman: Father of Tomorrow #3 shows Lex Luthor's decision to abandon science for sorcery perfectly highlighting the series' central debate over power and responsibility. Absolute Wonder Woman #22 has Barbara Minerva willingly surrender herself to Urzkartaga, but her true objective remains a mystery. The Peril of the Brutal Dark: An Ezra Kane Mystery #6 sends Ezra Kane into the skies in a biplane for a cinematic showdown with Nazi automatons that delivers the pulp-adventure ending the series promised. Swamp Thing (1989) #4 gives Swamp Thing and Abigail a hopeful ending by leaving multiversal versions of themselves behind. Dark Knights of Steel: Heir to the Sea #1 highlights Arthur Curry taking Superman's place as the extraordinary child raised by Jonathan and Martha Kent. Absolute Superman #21 delivers a perfect balance of action and character as Superman shows just how much he cares about the people who can slip through the cracks as much as he cares about world-ending threats like King Shazam. Zatanna #4 has Zatanna learn firsthand from previous Prime Magi that the role isn't what she thought it was. The Flash #35 has Wally learn that with enough data he can stop anything bad from occurring in Central City—but should he be watching everyone? And what happens when he tries to expand that to Metropolis? Action Comics #1100 ends its time-travel story with Superboy coming face-to-face with his older self, while a surprise return from a classic Superman villain leads into the next big event for the Superman Family. Detective Comics #1111 has Batman's investigation uncover the terrifying truth behind the force manipulating generations of the Prion family, and his vow to save them proves the lasting impact Prion had during his brief time with Batman. They also give a rundown of this week's collected editions, reprints and facsimile releases. As always, all books are ranked from top to bottom and each host gives a Book of the Week pick.
July 19 · 39 min
Marvel Leaves New York, Daredevil Surges & Absolute Green Arrow Expands | Comic Source Weekly
Marvel Comics is entering one of the biggest transitional periods in its history. This week I break down Marvel moving its publishing operations from New York to Burbank, Steve Wacker replacing C.B. Cebulski as Editor-in-Chief, and what those changes could mean for the future of the publisher. I also cover Daredevil's continued reprint momentum, DC extending Absolute Green Arrow from six issues to twelve, first looks at G.I. JOE #25 and Battle Beast #12, the ThunderCats relaunch, San Diego Comic-Con announcements from Bad Idea, Ignition Press, Rocketship Entertainment and more. Then it's time for What Hit, the Prana Top 10 Best Sellers, and this week's Final Order Cutoff books. 00:00 Intro 01:28 Marvel Leaves New York & Steve Wacker Takes Over 05:11 Daredevil Reprint Momentum 06:33 Absolute Green Arrow Extended 07:24 G.I. JOE #25 First Look 07:57 Battle Beast #12 Preview 08:33 ThunderCats Relaunch 09:15 Bad Idea SDCC News 12:06 Ignition Press Pavilion 13:49 Revenge Of TV 15:05 Eastside Saints 16:08 The Rocketfellers #13 16:53 Three Worlds, Three Moons 18:59 Final Boss Video Game 19:46 Ice Cream Man Reprint 20:33 Badrock Sells Out 21:19 Rocketship Entertainment at SDCC 22:35 Pop Kill: Big Candy 23:37 Flux House Presents #1 24:25 Todd McFarlane & J. Scott Campbell 25:21 What Hit 27:40 Prana Top 10 32:22 Final Order Cutoff 37:53 Closing
July 17 · 49 min
Todd McFarlane Talks Spawn '77, Mark Spears, J. Scott Campbell and the Spawn Movie
Todd McFarlane returns to The Comic Source for a wide-ranging conversation about the past, present and future of Spawn. Todd explains how drawings he created as a teenager in 1977 inspired the upcoming Spawn '77 project with Mark Spears, why the new story must carefully work around established Hellspawn mythology and what impressed him about Spears' atmospheric interpretation of the concept. He also details his unusual collaboration with J. Scott Campbell, in which both artists created distinct finished versions of the same original sketches, and discusses the hidden differences fans can discover between their covers. The conversation also explores McFarlane's limited-edition enamel pin program, his commitment to honoring announced production numbers and the importance of maintaining trust with collectors. Todd even shares a cinematic moment he wrote for the Spawn movie and imagines Jamie Foxx's Al Simmons delivering the line, "I wasn't hiding. I was waiting." The episode closes with McFarlane reflecting on creative freedom, longevity and why surviving long enough to continue making comics may be the greatest victory of all. Links: The Comic Source: https://linktr.ee/thecomicsource Todd McFarlane Productions: https://mcfarlane.com McFarlane Toys Store: https://mcfarlanetoysstore.com J. Scott Campbell Store: https://jscottcampbell.com Spawn Official: https://www.spawn.com
July 15 · 15 min
Inside SDCC'S Hottest Party with Fandom Director of Events Zach Michaels
Zach Michaels, Director of Events at Fandom, returns to The Comic Source to preview one of San Diego Comic-Con's most sought-after opening-night events. He discusses how fans can win invitations, the work required to produce the massive celebration, and why San Diego provides an experience unlike any other major convention. Zach also reveals some of this year's entertainment and activations, including The Coverups led by Billie Joe Armstrong, Xbox and Halo: Campaign Evolved, Suntory's -196 brand, Z2 Comics' And Out Comes the Wolf, and an unconventional pep squad that will be part of the performance. Beyond the party, the conversation explores Fandom's larger mission of providing a place where every interest—from comics and gaming to anime, movies, television, and reality shows—can be celebrated without one community being elevated at the expense of another.
July 15 · 17 min
John Ross Bowie on Stuart Fails to Save the Universe & Barry Kripke's Return
John Ross Bowie joins Jace to discuss returning as Barry Kripke in Stuart Fails to Save the Universe, the new Big Bang Theory spinoff premiering July 23 on HBO Max. John explains how the series takes Stuart, Denise, Bert and Kripke into a different universe with each episode while keeping the story grounded in the relationships between its characters. He also talks about expanding Kripke beyond his familiar punchlines, reuniting with Kevin Sussman, Lauren Lapkus and Brian Posehn, and working on the first Chuck Lorre series built around extensive visual effects. John also reflects on the lasting impact of Speechless, why its edgy and absurd comedy was sometimes misunderstood, and the response the series continues to receive from families affected by disability. Plus, he previews his role as Kenneth Adelman in The Brink of War alongside Jeff Daniels, Jared Harris and J.K. Simmons and discusses the immersive Stuart Fails to Save the Universe experience coming to San Diego Comic-Con. Stuart Fails to Save the Universe premieres July 23, 2026, on HBO Max.
July 15 · 2 hr 26 min
DC Spotlight July 15, 2026 Absolute Green Arrow Exposes Miraclo, Superman Unlimited Tests Ultra Boy & Deathstroke Reveals The Enemy
Jace and Rocky break down all 13 DC releases for the week of July 15, 2026. Nightwing #140 brings Psycho Pirate into Dan Watters' Blüdhaven mystery by tying the city's violence to Medusa architecture instead of the Medusa Mask. Wonder Woman #35 works as a Wonder War interlude that retells Diana's origin through Steve Trevor explaining Wonder Woman's history to Trinity. End of Life #6 has Eddie Stallion try to leave Pluto before his reunion with Sophie convinces him to stay while the Menagerie's assassins keep closing in. Batwoman #5 has Kate Kane rescue Alice by removing her mask and reaching her sister directly, while Mother Despina warns that winning may still mean losing. Deathstroke: The Terminator #5 reveals the person behind the attacks on Slade and ends with a threat to Rose Wilson that she may not survive. Absolute Flash #17 ends the Gorilla City story in tragic fashion with the young Grodd caught between loyalty to his father and his bond with Wally. Batman/Superman: World's Finest #53 highlights Dick Grayson's skills as he tries to break Batman and Superman free from Tyrannus Rex's control in Skartaris. Dark Knights of Steel 2 #1 expands the medieval DC world beyond the original kingdoms as Kara is welcomed into Amazonia, Batman remains separated from the League, and Amanda Waller's secret villainy continues to hang over the larger story. New Titans #37 hints at Static joining the team while giving Kid Devil more spotlight and continuing Spoiler's rise into a stronger leadership role. Lobo #5 has the network ordered to bring Lobo back, only for the executive to put a contract on him and send Lip Bomb after the Main Man. Catwoman #89 pushes Selina deeper into her Gotham war with Black Mask while bringing her connection to Carmine Falcone closer to outright confirmation. Superman Unlimited #15 builds on the Ultra Boy reveal by showing Jon Kent's faith in him pay off, while Superwoman's arrival keeps the Earth-3 story from ending cleanly. Absolute Green Arrow #3 shifts further into Black Canary's investigation as the issue reveals Miraclo, Rex Tyler and anti-aging experiments tied to the billionaires being targeted. They also give a rundown of this week's collected editions, reprints and facsimile releases. As always, all books are ranked from top to bottom and each host gives a Book of the Week pick.
July 13 · 45 min
Archie Is Back! Ben H. Winters & Hunter Gorinson Discuss Oni's New Archie Era
Jace welcomes writer Ben H. Winters and Oni Press President and Publisher Hunter Gorinson for an in-depth conversation about the new Archie #1 and the beginning of Oni Press' ambitious Archie publishing program. Hunter explains how the partnership with Archie Comics developed, why Oni is launching the line carefully with Archie, Sabrina the Teenage Witch and Archie in Hell, and how the publisher plans to preserve the characters' history while giving every book a distinct modern identity. Ben discusses writing Archie, Betty, Veronica, Jughead and the Riverdale cast, drawing inspiration from raising three teenagers, balancing humor with authentic adolescent anxiety and finding the humanity beneath the characters' familiar relationships. They also explore Archie's enormous influence on popular culture, the importance of joyful comics, Fábio Moon's interpretation of Riverdale and what Oni has planned for San Diego Comic-Con. Archie #1 is scheduled for release September 2, 2026. Chapters 00:00 Introducing Oni Press' New Archie Era 00:32 How the Oni and Archie Partnership Happened 03:12 Why Ben H. Winters Said Yes to Archie 05:20 Modernizing Archie for Every Generation 07:34 Choosing Fábio Moon and Kano 11:38 Betty or Veronica? 13:45 Building a Sustainable Archie Publishing Line 16:28 Balancing Teenage Drama, Humor and Optimism 18:50 Jughead's Journal 20:15 Why Archie Comics Are So Hard to Write 23:55 Making Comics Fun Again 27:19 The Fizz of Teenage Potential 29:38 Finding Archie Andrews' Voice 31:31 Archie's Influence on Popular Culture 33:00 The Responsibility of Publishing an Icon 35:16 What Makes Oni's Archie #1 Different 37:40 San Diego Comic-Con Plans 39:35 Why Comic Conventions Matter 42:46 Final Thoughts and Preordering Archie #1 Find more interviews, reviews and comic news from The Comic Source: https://linktr.ee/thecomicsource
July 11 · 50 min
Comic Source Weekly July 8, 2026 — Lara Croft Joins G.I. JOE, DC & Skybound Hit SDCC & DWJ Launches Chainkata
This week on The Comic Source Weekly, Jace breaks down the biggest comic book news for the week of July 8, 2026. The lead story is Skybound, Image Comics, Hasbro and Crystal Dynamics revealing the first-ever crossover between G.I. JOE: A Real American Hero and Tomb Raider, with Lara Croft making a surprise appearance in G.I. JOE: A Real American Hero #330 before the launch of a five-issue G.I. JOE: A Real American Hero / Tomb Raider mini-series in October. That surprise immediately turned into a sales story as G.I. JOE #330 sold out at the distributor level and was rushed back to print. Jace also covers DC and Skybound's Comic-Con International 2026 plans, Daniel Warren Johnson launching Chainkata at Image Comics, Do A Powerbomb Black & White #1 selling out, Ignition Press adding new creators and revealing its SDCC Pavilion schedule, Bad Idea's WARBIRD, Planet Death and SDCC Tiki Party announcements, Judge Dredd crossing over with Biker Mice from Mars, Ghost Machine's Radioactive Revolution cover contest, Oni's Fort Psycho Comic in a Can and Sabrina first look, Universal Monsters: Frankenstein Black & White Special, Mike Mignola's Circus of Bones art book, Zero Instance from Comixology Originals, and the Waypoint Kickstarter. Plus, Jace looks at what hit for the week of July 8, counts down the Prana Bestseller Top 10 for the week of June 30, and highlights books coming up on Final Order Cutoff. The Comic Source Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thecomicsource #ComicBooks #ComicBookNews #TheComicSource 00:00 Hook, Intro and Housekeeping 03:22 G.I. JOE / Tomb Raider Crossover and #330 Sellout 06:03 DC Unveils SDCC 2026 Lineup 09:04 Skybound Announces SDCC Panels and Exclusives 10:59 Daniel Warren Johnson Launches Chainkata 12:20 Do A Powerbomb Black & White #1 Sells Out 13:12 Ignition Press Creator Wave and SDCC Pavilion Schedule 17:17 Bad Idea Block — WARBIRD, Planet Death and SDCC Tiki Party 20:13 Judge Dredd / Biker Mice from Mars Crossover 21:25 Ghost Machine Radioactive Revolution Contest and Geiger Exclusives 24:43 Oni Press Fort Psycho Comic in a Can 26:01 Sabrina the Teenage Witch #1 First Look 26:54 Universal Monsters: Frankenstein Black & White Special 28:20 Circus of Bones: The Art of Mike Mignola 29:31 Zero Instance from Comixology Originals 30:56 Waypoint Kickstarter 32:21 What Hit 37:36 Prana Bestseller Top 10 44:02 Final Order Cutoff 49:04 Closing
July 10 · 13 min
Creating VeeFriends Topps Chrome with Artist Gyula Németh
Artist Gyula Németh joins Jace to discuss his work on the VeeFriends Topps Chrome trading-card set. Gyula explains how his years creating artwork for Panini's Kaboom inserts led to his involvement with VeeFriends, how Gary Vee's original character sketches are reinterpreted by different artists, and why preserving each character's established personality can make the process more challenging than illustrating a real athlete. Gyula also reveals which monsters became his favorite characters to draw, discusses the revisions behind some of the finished cards, and reacts to seeing rare collectibles featuring his artwork listed for extraordinary prices. The conversation concludes with a broader look at the accessibility of card collecting and its ability to connect collectors across generations. Follow Gyula Németh on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gynemethart/ Follow The Comic Source: https://linktr.ee/thecomicsource Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:31 What Are VeeFriends? 00:58 How Panini Kaboom Led to VeeFriends 02:43 Reimagining Gary Vee's Original Character Sketches 04:19 Drawing Athletes vs. VeeFriends Characters 05:18 Revising the Gorilla's Personality and Expression 06:31 Gyula's Favorite VeeFriends Characters 07:41 Rare Erupt Cards and the $99,000 Listing 09:00 VeeFriends, Pokémon and Collecting as a Family 10:33 Why Card Collecting Reaches More Generations Than Comics 11:55 VeeFriends Cards at Conventions 12:38 Where to Follow Gyula Németh 13:15 Closing
July 8 · 1 hr 41 min
DC Spotlight July 8, 2026 Clayface Rebuilds Basil Karlo, Absolute Batman Reveals Harley's Secret & Aquaman Challenges The League
Jace and Rocky break down all 9 DC releases for the week of July 8, 2026. Clayface: Celebrity Dirt #1 turns Basil Karlo's Hollywood comeback into an identity mystery when another Clayface who also believes he is Basil Karlo escapes and begins searching for himself. Fury of Firestorm #4 reframes Professor Stein as a manipulative figure when Lorraine Reilly learns she was also used in his attempt to control the Firestorm Matrix. Bleeding Hearts #6 forces Poke to choose a side when his beating heart is revealed. Barbara Gordon: Breakout #3 uses flashbacks to a mission with Nightwing, Cassandra Cain and Huntress to help Barbara realize the pills she has been taking may be drugging her. Absolute Catwoman #2 reveals more of Selina Kyle's past with the Calicos while centering the heist around the Yarn, an object with possible Brainiac links. Supergirl #15 concludes the Hero of Kandor storyline featuring Kara's final showdown with Black Flame with the future of Kandor in the balance, while Lesla continues her hero's journey. Emperor Aquaman #15 has Batman and Wonder Woman question whether the Justice League could stop Aquaman as Arthur's power as king of the blue expands across the galaxy. Absolute Batman #22 reveals Absolute Harley Quinn's connection to Jack Grimm while Batman ignores her warnings and falls deeper into Scarecrow's psychological trap. Green Lantern Corps #18 uses Guy Gardner's perspective to reframe the emotional entities as sentient beings who deserve respect instead of weapons to be deployed against the Manhunters. They also give a rundown of this week's collected editions, reprints and facsimile releases. As always, all books are ranked from top to bottom and each host gives a Book of the Week pick.
July 4 · 49 min
Comic Source Weekly July 1, 2026 — McFarlane SDCC Exclusives, Ignition Pavilion & Absolute Line Dominates
This week on The Comic Source Weekly, Jace breaks down the biggest comic book news for the week of July 1, 2026. The lead story is Todd McFarlane Productions offering signed SDCC 2026 exclusive McFarlane / Artgerm collector sets through a July 9 Whatnot live show, giving fans outside San Diego a shot at limited convention exclusives. Jace also covers Ignition Press expanding its SDCC presence with Booth #5531 and the new Ignition Pavilion offsite pop-up across from the convention hall, kicking off its Ignition Sequence of ten SDCC announcements. Also covered this week: DC Silver Age Covers and Stories Artist's Edition from Act 4 and Skybound, Bad Idea's Hank Howard and Dingoliath glow-in-the-dark cover updates, Ghost Machine's SDCC exclusives, Universal Monsters: The Bride of Frankenstein Lives, McFarlane Toys DC Direct Weekly Pin Drops, Oni and Archie's Riverdale relaunch, Fort Psycho, Ghost Pepper, The Eye Collector, Liberty, Image's retailer award nominations, and the Radiant Black audiobook. Jace also looks at what hit for the week of July 1, counts down the Prana Top 10 Bestseller List for the week of June 23, and highlights books approaching Final Order Cutoff on July 6. NEWS SOURCES Oni / Archie Redesigns and Relaunch https://www.onipress.com/news/first-look-oni-press-reveals-complete-archie-1-covers-with-elsa-charretier-stuart-immonen-kano-karl-kerschl-fbio-moon-dan-parent-khary-randolph-amp-more The Eye Collector #1 Second Printing https://imagecomics.com/press-releases/inventory-of-the-eye-collector-wiped-out-in-a-blink-debut-issue-rushed-back-to-print-this-week Image Select Retailer Award Nominations https://imagecomics.com/press-releases/image-comics-opens-comic-shop-retailer-appreciation-award-for-spring-2026-nominations-round Liberty Kickstarter Press release provided directly. Radiant Black Audiobook https://imagecomics.com/press-releases/image-comics-first-ever-audiobook-radiant-black-is-now-available The Comic Source Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thecomicsource #ComicBooks #ComicBookNews #TheCom