Flash Gordon

I’m still trying to process the 80th Annual Reuben Awards. For three days in Columbus, Ohio; cartoonists, illustrators, wirters, animators, editors, and fans came together to celebrate the people who make this art from so special. The National Cartoonists Society was founding in 1946, and there was something really meaningful about marking 80 years in a city with such a deep connection to cartooning history. Columbus was an amazing host. Between the National Cartoonists Society conference, the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum, and the energy around Cartoon Crossroads Columbus, the whole weekend felt like a love letter to the craft. And honestly, I felt like a kid in the candy store! Working with King Features means I get to be around some truly legendary creators, but imposter syndrome definitely creeps in sometimes. Then you find yourself standing in a room with cartoonists whose work you’ve admired for years, talking shop, sharing a laugh, or watching them draw for a crowd, and it all becomes altogether rewarding. King Features was proud to be represented by an incredible group of nominees: Ricardo Siri, better known as Liniers (Macanudo), Ricardo Martinez (Goomer), […]

Today, we’re celebrating the birthday of a true original.A hero who didn’t just travel to other worlds, he helped invent them. Happy Birthday to Flash Gordon. Since first blasting onto the comics page in 1934, Flash Gordon has been fueling imaginations with daring escapes, impossible odds, and unforgettable worlds. For generations of fans, Flash wasn’t just a character, he was a gateway. To science fiction. To adventure. To the idea that courage and heart can carry you anywhere. Flash Gordon showed us sprawling alien landscapes before sci-fi was a genre staple. He gave us a hero who charged forward not because he was fearless, but because someone had to. And along the way, he inspired everything from space operas to modern blockbuster storytelling. What keeps Flash timeless is the feeling. That rush of adventure. That moment where the hero stands tall against overwhelming odds and says, I’m not done yet. Whether you grew up reading Flash in the Sunday paper, discovered him through reprints, or just found him on Comics Kingdom, that spark still hits the same. A Special Anniversary Story Is Here Art from “So What’s Your Story?” by […]

Hey Comics Kingdom fans! Alex here, host of Inside the Kingdom. In our latest podcast episode, I had the incredible pleasure of sitting down with Dan Schkade, the creative mastermind behind the thrilling revitalization of Flash Gordon. Dan, known for his brilliant storytelling in Lavender Jack and numerous acclaimed webtoons, joined me to dive deep into his vision for this legendary strip. Dan shared his passion for breathing new life into classic characters while staying true to their original spirit. One of my favorite moments from our conversation was hearing about his innovative storytelling technique using the Sunday strips. These recaps provide unique, character-specific viewpoints that enrich the narrative and deepen our connection with Flash and his crew. We explored Dan’s thoughtful approach to character development, particularly his ability to craft characters with genuine depth and relatable moral complexities. His portrayal of Bok and the recent introduction of Etta, a mechanic character from working-class roots, showcase how Dan brings fresh, meaningful voices into Flash Gordon’s universe. Dan also gave insights into his storytelling pacing, discussing how he carefully balances exciting action with meaningful character arcs to keep readers hooked without […]

We’re celebrating “Graduation Season” at Comics Kingdom and are proud to welcome our latest lineup of outstanding new comics. These new comics are packed with unique stories and incredible artistry that are sure to entertain and captivate. Let’s dive into the latest members of our prestigious lineup! Flash Gordon Returning with a bang, Flash Gordon is back to dazzle new audiences with his epic space adventures. Initially created in 1934 by Alex Raymond, this legendary hero has inspired generations of comic fans and creators alike. The latest iteration by Dan Schkade brings fresh life to this iconic character, continuing his legacy with thrilling new escapades. Flash Gordon’s revival has even been featured in the Washington Post, highlighting its cultural impact and timeless appeal. Never Been Deader Tommy Devoid brings us the hilarious afterlife comedy Never Been Deader. Follow Lifeless Carl as he navigates the quirky world of the undead office. This comic adds a humorous twist to everyday workplace antics, making the afterlife seem oddly relatable and uproariously funny. Rosebuds Rosebuds by Supr Dee (Deon Parson) tells the heartwarming and lively tales of the Gonzalez sisters. Originally popular on social […]

Get Ready for an Epic Comeback: Flash Gordon, Reimagined by the Amazing Dan Schkade! This Sunday, gear up for a dazzling space adventure like never before! Flash Gordon, the timeless space hero, is making a grand comeback, reimagined by the super-talented Dan Schkade. Get ready to be blown away by a universe brimming with fresh colors, astonishing details, and imagination. Meet the Artist: Dan Schkade, a True Game-Changer Taking the helm of our beloved Flash Gordon is Dan Schkade, an Eisner Award nominee and famed for his stellar work on iconic comics like “Will Eisner’s The Spirit Returns,” “Lavender Jack,” and “Saint John,”. Dan isn’t just an artist; he’s a visionary about to take Flash Gordon on a spectacular, never-seen-before adventure. Want a sneak peek of his genius? Check out his awe-inspiring portfolio. A Fresh Take on the Universe Dan’s magical touch is here to sprinkle some modern vibes into our beloved saga, ensuring Flash Gordon isn’t just back but better, brighter, and bolder. Get ready to meet your favorite heroes like: Flash Gordon: The ultimate space hero, reborn! Dale Arden: Journey with her through realms filled with mystery and […]

As we continue to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the 1980 Flash Gordon movie and our new Flash Forward anthology strip, we decided to get together with one of the participating artists and former writer Jim Keefe! As you may know, Keefe drew and wrote original stories for Flash Gordon from 1996 to 2003 for King Features, so what better person to debut Flash Forward than him??   This week we sat down with him to discuss all things Flash Gordon, as well as some behind-the-scenes stories from when he worked on the strip back in the day (did you know that he was initially rejected from taking over Flash??). Continue reading below for the full scoop!     Thanks for joining us, Jim! We’re here celebrating the 40th anniversary of the 1980 Flash Gordon movie (not to mention almost 86 years of Flash comics!). It’s incredible to see the character still alive in stories and media today after so many years. Isn’t it crazy?! “Alex Raymond’s Flash Gordon set the standard for action and adventure right out of the gate, so no surprise there!”   So tell us a […]

Wow! Flash Gordon– the cinematic masterpiece that adapted our own beloved Alex Raymond adventure comic– premiered nearly 40 years ago, on December 5, 1980!  To celebrate, we decided that instead of looking back on the past, we’d invite 40 amazing cartoonists to share their take on the FUTURE of Flash Gordon!  Once a week, you’ll be able to visit FLASH FORWARD and see amazing Sunday comics from all kinds of talented artists: comic strip cartoonists, comic book artists, indie cartoonists, political cartoonists, webcartoonists, animators, illustrators, graphic designers, and more! Each one is sharing their take on what the future of Flash Gordon might be– from a peek into an imagined Flash Gordon story to their thoughts on the history of one of the most influential comics of the past century!  Here’s the first strip, by Jim Keefe, who wrote and drew Flash Gordon from 1996 until 2003.  But that’s not all!  David Reddick of Intelligent Life has also created a series of short Flash Gordon motion comics called Flash Gordon: A Minute to Save the World!  You can check out the first one below and see more on the Comics Kingdom […]

#FaceYourArt Flash Gordon EditionArtwork by Jim Keefe

Today’s Flash Gordon page (June 14, 2020) was drawn by none other than Secret Agent Corrigan Writer/Artist George Evans. Fore more on George Evans check out Artist Spotlight: George Evans.

Today’s Flash Gordon Sunday page running on Comics Kingdom (5/31/2002) was penciled by Mark McMurray. Here is Mark’s pencils followed by my inks.