DC Comics continues to make smart moves by locking down top talent, keeping them in-house and forming an impressive stable of artists and writers. After signing exclusive deals with Tom King, Clay Mann, and John Timms they've added three more talented creatives. Steve Orlando, Doc Shaner, and Jesus Merino have reached an agreement to work solely for DC Comics and Vertigo.
Orlando has garnered critical praise on his hit series, Midnighter, establishing the first openly gay male character to carry his own title. “DC Comics is the home to the icons, characters and concepts that form the bedrock of modern mythology, cross boundaries and inspire people,” said Orlando [in a press release]. “I’m incredibly excited to add to this great tradition of storytelling exclusively, a tradition that captured my imagination as a young reader and bring it to a new generation.”
Shaner has provided art for titles like Adventures of Superman, Convergence: Shazam! and Justice League: Darkseid War: Green Lantern and impressed legendary artist and DCE co-publisher Jim Lee. “In reviewing his concepts and character sketches for [upcoming title] Future Quest, it reminded me of some of the classic animation and comic artists of the past, like Alex Toth and Milton Caniff," Lee said. "It was a perfect fit for this title, and I can’t wait to see him bring his talents to more DC and Vertigo titles in the future.”
“DC Comics has a history of creators and characters that I'm very fond of as both a reader and artist, and to be asked to be part of that tradition is an incredible honor for me,” said Shaner. “Superman, Captain Marvel, The Flash, Plastic Man, and so many more-- these are some of my favorite characters of all time."
Spanish artist Jesus Merino has worked on such titles as Superman, Justice League: Darkseid War: The Flash, among many others for years and feels all his hard work has paid off. “After working with DC on so many projects, it’s great to call them my home now,” said Merino. I’ve seen a lot of changes over that time, not only in the characters, but in the company as well. With this new arrangement, I feel like the new kid in town all over again.”
As the publisher enters a sort of shuffling of the deck with "Rebirth" throughout their line, it's imperative that they acquire and keep veteran and emerging talent. Although, it hasn't been revealed which titles the latest three acquisitions will be working on for "Rebirth." Orlando's 'Midnighter' run may be over since it wasn't announced as part of the new venture. Nonetheless, DC has locked down some incredible talent and hopefully they'll add more diverse creatives as well.
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