I think this was going to be a major announcement, but the New York Times broke the story this morning.  I was going to write about the possibility last night when I’d heard rumblings about it elsewhere, but it seems as though Robert Kirkman has joined Image as a partner.

From the official press release:

 

“Image Comics has been a huge part of my life for as long as it’s been in existence,” said Kirkman. “Being inspired by the creation of Image, I’ve entered into my comics career not wanting to write corporate characters as much as I’ve wanted to create my own.  Being a partner at Image, having the chance to help run the company as well as continue to contribute strong creator-owned series to its publishing line is more than I’ve ever thought possible for myself.  I’m very excited to have the opportunity to sit at the table across from my fellow partners, and steer the direction of comics as a whole.”

 

Robert Kirkman began his Image Comics career in 2002 with the mini-series SUPERPATRIOT and TECHJACKET and in 2003 he debuted what would become his most famous creations, INVINCIBLE & THE WALKING DEAD. Since then he’s seen much success with the Image, including having his creations turned into various forms of media such as television, statues, t-shirts and much more. This new position will have Kirkman working alongside the current Image partners,  Erik Larsen, Todd McFarlane, Marc Silvestri and Jim Valentino, to spearhead a concerted effort to restructure and strengthen Image in the coming years.

 

Image Publisher Eric Stephenson said, “I’ve known Robert since the day he submitted his first books so to see him rise this far in a relatively small amount of time has been amazing. Not only that, you’d be hard pressed to find someone more passionate about creator owned comics — there’s really no better candidate for the position.”

 

So, congratulations to Kirkman.  Even though we’re not Comic Book Resources or Newsarama, we still have love you, big guy.

One question though: How will this affect your work with Marvel, if at all?
More information should be forthcoming at Friday’s Image Panel.