Marvel Comics will publish an adaptation of Stephen King‘s The Stand, debuting this September. Following the completion of the project, they’ll collect the comics into a book. These new comics will be based on The Stand: The Complete & Uncut Edition, to “give the most depth and detail possible,” according to King. As with his previous graphic novel adaptions, King will oversee the project as Creative and Executive Director.
“Having the opportunity to visualize another Stephen King epic in the comic book format for both new and old readers is incredibly exhilarating,” said Marvel Editor-in-Chief Joe Quesada. The series will be adapted by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa (Fantastic Four, Sensational Spider-Man, HBO’s Big Love), and illustrated by Mike Perkins (Captain America).
“The Stand being adapted as graphic fiction is truly a momentous event for both Marvel Publishing and reading audiences alike,” said Ruwan Jayatilleke, Marvel’s Vice President of Development. “While we continue to publish compelling fiction with our iconic Super Heroes, Marvel is also applying that same skilled storytelling, creative energy and tremendous momentum to intellectual properties like The Stand—resulting in groundbreaking works in the comic book format.”
King said “There’s nothing more interesting—and more fun—than seeing an old work take on new life. I’ve enjoyed working with Marvel on The Gunslinger series, and am excited about this collaboration regarding The Stand.”
The Stand was originally published in 1978, and has since been translated into 22 languages and sold more than 4.5 million copies in the US. It “presents a post-apocalyptic world in which a band of unlikely heroes must come together to fight one of the most memorable villains in any genre: Randall Flagg. After a super-flu virus escapes a military station, the epidemic wipes out 99.4% of the world’s population. As the remnants of humanity try to find their way to the safe haven known as ‘the Free Zone’ to rebuild society, they find themselves opposed by a group led by Flagg. The two surviving camps must face off for the fate of the human race.”