40 years after its original debut, the Toxic Avenger makes a comeback in comics with a new series set to launch this fall courtesy of Ahoy Comics. Aptly titled The Toxic Avenger, the series will be penned by Matt Bors, founder of The Nib, with artwork by Fred Harper.
Ahoy Comics pledges that the upcoming five-issue limited series of Toxic Avenger will capture the cult essence of the original 1984 action/horror film, which birthed four subsequent sequels, the latest in 2023, all under the grindhouse studio Troma Films (with Legendary Pictures collaborating on the 2023 film).
However, rather than solely revisiting established Toxic Avenger lore, the new comic will revisit Toxie’s origin within a modern framework imbued with a satirical environmentalist perspective.
The narrative of the new series echoes many elements of the original, still centering on the transformation of hapless nerd Melvin Junko into the Toxic Avenger due to a toxic waste mishap. Yet, in this updated rendition, he uncovers a significant corporate conspiracy with far-reaching environmental implications.
The Toxic Avenger had a previous comic run in the early ’90s, published by Marvel. Additionally, the character inspired a child-friendly cartoon and toy line known as The Toxic Avengers, which will also play a role in the new comic.
“This series will blend aspects of the original films with the Toxic Crusaders cartoon and characters in fresh ways, modernized to explore themes of environmental degradation, corporate influence, and social media dynamics,” remarks Bors in a statement accompanying the announcement.
“At its core, The Toxic Avenger is a satire on environmental issues, depicting a small town and its ordinary inhabitants ensnared and transformed by uncontrollable circumstances. The narrative Fred Harper and I are crafting delves into the frustrations of individuals brushed aside by authorities urging them to disregard their concerns, insisting that everything is fine, even as unsettling changes occur,” he elaborates. “And fundamentally, it revolves around a powerless youth, Melvin, who discovers immense strength, grotesque mutations, adoration, and heroism… yet remains ultimately powerless against human nature.”
“If ever there was a superhuman hero for these toxic, bleak times, Toxie embodies it! Only Ahoy Comics and Bors & Harper could undertake this task… um… clean up this mess!” jests Toxic Avenger creator and Troma Films co-founder Lloyd Kaufman in a related statement. “Toxie and the Troma Team eagerly anticipate your encounter with the art and narratives that The Toxic Avenger Comic Book will ignite in your mind, soul, and heart. And always remember – Toxie loves you, and so do I.”
The Toxic Avenger #1 is set for release on October 9.
