Gold Key Comics Return with Funny Animal Fun!
PLUS an inside look at my new cover for Gold Key Comics!
Gettings Mad Makers! I recently completed a variant cover and a set of wax pack trading cards for the all-new Gold Key Comics series Figgy Furthermore created by acclaimed cartoonist Jay Stephens. In my latest YouTube video, you can see how these projects came together and hear the story about how Gold Key Comics was resurrected from the back issue bins to the new comics section of your local comic book store.
The Kickstarter for Figgy Furthermore the Spirt Guide Dog is currently live! Check it out!
For the back of my variant cover I created an entertaining vintage paper doll craft in the style of classic activity pages of the original Gold Key era. I had so much fun with this that I decided to create a free template so you too can design some fun paper dolls of your own. You can download the template here: If you're a member of the Patreon community you can receive even more DIY project templates!
Speaking of Gold Key Comic Here are some of the reasons I love Gold Key and why I’m so thrilled they’re back!
Those Classic Painted Covers!
Gold Key Comics was renowned for its vividly painted covers, which often featured dynamic scenes and vibrant colors that captivated readers. These covers, created by talented artists, added an extra layer of depth and appeal to Gold Key's comic book titles.
Retro Graphic Design
Gold Key Comics' covers showcased a distinctive retro graphic design aesthetic characterized by bold typography, striking imagery, and vibrant color schemes. These designs captured the essence of the era in which they were produced.
Original Characters
Gold Key Comics introduced a roster of original characters that became beloved icons in the comic book world, such as Magnus, Robot Fighter, Turok: Son of Stone, and Doctor Solar, Man of the Atom. These characters offered readers compelling narratives and unique powers within diverse storylines, contributing to Gold Key's legacy as a pioneering publisher in the comic book industry.
“Funny Animal” Comics
Gold Key Comics embraced a rich array of funny animal comics, showcasing beloved characters from iconic franchises like Walt Disney's Comics and Stories, Looney Tunes, and Hanna-Barbera. From the misadventures of Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck to the antics of Bugs Bunny and Scooby-Doo, these light-hearted tales starred a diverse cast of anthropomorphic animals and animated favorites.
Pulp Heroes
Gold Key Comics also delved into the realm of pulp hero titles, featuring iconic characters like The Phantom, Flash Gordon, Tarzan and Doc Savage. These adventurous tales transported readers to exotic locales and thrilling encounters as heroes battled villains and faced danger at every turn.
A Wide Variety of Licenced TV and Movie Titles
Gold Key Comics adapted popular TV and movie titles into comic book form, bringing beloved cinematic stories to the printed page. With adaptations ranging from science fiction epics like Star Trek and The Twilight Zone to action-packed adventures like
Planet of the Apes Fantastic Voyage and King Kong. Gold Key offered readers a chance to experience their favorite films and television in a new and immersive format.
The Return!
Gold Key is back and they are taking all of the classic retro elements that made them iconic and combining the old and the new to bring something original to modern audiences. Be sure to check out Boris Karloff’s Gold Key Mysteries and Figgy Furthermore The Spirt Guide Dog!
What are your favorite memories of Gold Key Comics and what do you hope to see from them now that they’re back? Let me know by leaving a comment, I’d love to hear from you!
That’s it for this week. Until next time. Keep the love of classic comics alive!
Speaking of classics and comics, there are plenty of comics and classic retro designs in my online store on my website.