A Legendary Detective Returns To Comics This November: First Look At ‘Rip Kirby’ #1
by Brendan M. Allen
Christopher Sebela and Tango bring Alex Raymond’s legendary detective back to comics with an all-new series this November. The case is almost open. Mad Cave Studios, in partnership with King Features Syndicate, reveals a first look at Rip Kirby #1. Written by Sebela, illustrated by Tango, colored by KJ Diaz, and lettered by Jeff Eckleberry, Rip Kirby delivers a fresh mystery built on one of comics’ most enduring foundations.
War hero. Star athlete. Brilliant scientist. Savvy private investigator. Rip Kirby’s reputation is long secured, and these days he’s enjoying the post-war boom of New York City. With gorgeous and quick-witted Honey Dorian at his side and reformed criminal valet Desmond running the show, it’s a perfect life and perfectly balanced. It’s been perfect for what seems like forever … But Rip’s world is about to get complicated, and his unflappably decent ways are newly tested. Up against a world that seems to be growing too fast, can an upstanding man of morals and fair play like Rip remain himself, or will he be swallowed up by the ugliness?
“Getting to write Rip Kirby has been a real dream,” said Sebela. “Not only am I writing detective stories – one of my favorite genres — I also get to write comedies, romances and thrillers at the same time. All starring the most upstanding private eye who ever solved a murder or went ten rounds with a bad guy. Rip’s a fella who’s loyal to his best girl, an intellectual who fights crime for the change of pace, and a soft tough guy who daydreams of leaving the world a better place than he found it. Hiding out from real life’s insanity inside Rip’s vision of a world where crime never pays, and the bad guys always lose, has been a real gift on a personal level. And with the gorgeous pages Tango, KJ and Jeff have created, I feel like we’re bringing Rip Kirby back to comics in the kind of style a guy this decent deserves.” –
The debut issue goes on sale November 4th, 2026, with a Final Order Cutoff of October 12th, 2026. Rip Kirby #1 will be available with Cover A by Annie Wu, plus a Cover B, Cover C, Cover D, a foil edition, and a blank sketch cover, with more details on the way soon.