Archie Comics Is Renaming Their Superhero Line As Dark Circle Comics To Signal A More Mature Approach

Archie Comics announced today that it will relaunching its superhero comics line, formerly known [...]

Archie Comics announced today that it will relaunching its superhero comics line, formerly known as Red Cirlce Comics, as Dark Circle Comics. The publisher says the name change is meant to signal the new direction of the line, which will feature "a more cinematic, literary and mature approach to the characters told in accessible stories that will appeal to new and longtime fans."

"When we brought Alex onboard to oversee our superhero imprint, we knew we needed to be bold and decisive with how these books were presented, in every way. They couldn't just be more of the same," said Archie Comics Publisher/Co-CEO Jon Goldwater. "This is a fresh start and a new direction for these iconic characters. It all boils down to story – tales that feature compelling characters by some of the best talent in comics. Alex – with the help of myself, our President Mike Pellerito, CCO Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa and Editor Paul Kaminski – has carefully curated a line of comics that will hopefully be seen as the definitive interpretations of these characters for a long time. We couldn't be more excited."

"These will be creator-driven books telling new, genre bending stories with some of the best characters in comics," said Segura. "They'll be more akin to cable television shows like Boardwalk EmpireTrue Detective and Orange is the New Black. Unique voices telling stories about flawed characters from a range of genres, including crime, superhero adventure and off-the-wall action. These are definitely not all-ages comics – they'll compete with the best Image, DC and Marvel have to offer. They won't be bogged down by continuity while still carrying on the legacy of these heroes. Fans are in for a treat."

The new lineup of Dark Circle Comics titles is expected to be announced in the days leading up to San Diego Comic-Con International.