DC's Young Animal

DC's Young Animal

DC's Young Animal is an imprint of DC Comics, launched in 2016. It was created to publish a line of comics that are experimental, bold, and cater to a more mature audience. The imprint was spearheaded by Gerard Way, the lead singer of the band My Chemical Romance and a comic book writer known for his work on The Umbrella Academy.

History

The Young Animal imprint was announced in April 2016, with Gerard Way serving as the curator. The imprint was designed to bring a new wave of creativity and innovation to DC Comics, reminiscent of the Vertigo line that had previously published groundbreaking series.

The first wave of titles under the Young Animal imprint included Doom Patrol, Shade, the Changing Girl, Cave Carson Has a Cybernetic Eye, and Mother Panic. These series were known for their unique storytelling, diverse characters, and willingness to explore complex themes.

Titles

Doom Patrol

Doom Patrol was one of the flagship titles of the Young Animal imprint. Written by Gerard Way and illustrated by Nick Derington, the series reimagined the classic Doom Patrol team with a modern twist. The series was praised for its surreal storytelling and vibrant art.

Shade, the Changing Girl

Shade, the Changing Girl was written by Cecil Castellucci with art by Marley Zarcone. The series followed the story of Loma, an alien who takes over the body of a teenage girl on Earth. It explored themes of identity, belonging, and transformation.

Cave Carson Has a Cybernetic Eye

Written by Gerard Way and Jon Rivera, with art by Michael Avon Oeming, Cave Carson Has a Cybernetic Eye followed the adventures of the titular character, a former adventurer with a cybernetic eye that gives him visions. The series combined elements of science fiction and family drama.

Mother Panic

Mother Panic was created by Jody Houser and illustrated by Tommy Lee Edwards. Set in Gotham City, the series followed Violet Paige, a socialite by day and vigilante by night. The series explored themes of trauma, revenge, and the dark underbelly of Gotham.

Impact and Legacy

DC's Young Animal imprint was praised for its innovative approach to storytelling and its ability to attract a diverse range of creators. The imprint provided a platform for stories that might not fit within the traditional superhero genre, allowing for greater creative freedom.

In 2018, the imprint went on a brief hiatus but returned in 2019 with new series and continuations of existing ones. The return included titles like Doom Patrol: Weight of the Worlds and Collapser.

Conclusion

DC's Young Animal imprint has made a significant impact on the comic book industry by pushing the boundaries of traditional storytelling and providing a space for unique and diverse voices. It continues to influence new generations of comic book creators and readers.

References

• DC's Young Animal Official Page
• Bleeding Cool: Gerard Way Announces DC's Young Animal Imprint