Comic Books

Image announces “Summer of Youngblood” in a road to 100

Youngblood #100 and Badrock #1 arrive in comic shops and on digital platforms this summer.

May 12, 2026

Image Comics co-founder Rob Liefeld has unveiled the “Summer of Youngblood,” a season-long push celebrating the return and expansion of one of the company’s defining franchises. The initiative begins with Youngblood #100, a milestone issue featuring a wide lineup of variant covers from some of Image’s most recognizable creators, including Todd McFarlane, Marc Silvestri, Erik Larsen, Jim Valentino, Whilce Portacio, and Robert Kirkman. Yes, writer Robert Kirkman! The issue also marks a notable first, as Top Cow CEO Marc Silvestri delivers his first-ever Youngblood cover.

“Marc’s cover is special; it’s an absolute stunner. I’ve literally waited 34 years for this,” said Liefeld. “Silvestri has never illustrated these characters, which makes it a real event for the fans as well me. I told him that I have to retire now. I’ll never, ever do better than this. It’s one in a million. Marc is my favorite artist, and this cover is monumental.”

Robert Kirkman is stepping into the role of artist for a rare piece tied to the anniversary.

“Having Robert Kirkman join the Youngblood #100 cover party? I had high hopes, and he just blew me away,” Liefeld said. “I can’t stop smiling. Each of these covers, crafted by these comic book legends, is just so humbling. It shows that the energy surrounding Youngblood is surging. This isn’t just a milestone, it’s a powerful union that celebrates a Golden Age that launched the company 34 years back.”

Kirkman added: “Youngblood is one of the most important independent comics ever published. It started the Image revolution and paved the way for everything that followed. As a corporate superteam that uses media manipulation and treats its heroes as celebrities you can find its DNA in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, The Boys, Invincible, and dozens of other modern superhero takes. The influence of Rob Liefeld’s creation reaches far and wide into all aspects of the entertainment industry. I was honored Rob allowed me to be some small part of his epic and historic 100th issue celebration.”

The celebration continues beyond the anniversary issue with a new solo series focused on Badrock. Launching in July, Badrock #1 shifts the spotlight to the granite-skinned powerhouse as he navigates the strain his public life places on his family. Liefeld teams with artist Seth Damoose for the series.

“I’ve been following Seth’s work for years; he was the only artist I envisioned for a Badrock series. He’s an incredible storyteller and illustrator. Fans are in for a huge treat,” Liefeld said.

“Badrock is the heart of Youngblood,” he added. “Giving him his own title allows us to go deeper into his character, his humor, and his sheer power. If you’re a fan of high-stakes, high-octane action that is loaded with laughs, this is the book you’ve been waiting for.”

Youngblood #100 and Badrock #1 arrive in comic shops and on digital platforms this summer, with more announcements tied to the “Summer of Youngblood” expected soon.