Dark Horse Comics and Universal Cable Productions Strike First-Look Deal

On July 7, Dark Horse Comics and Universal Cable Productions announced the signing of a first-look deal that could potentially usher in more diverse programming based on the publisher’s prolific comics library. Founded in 1986, Dark Horse Comics has achieved considerable success with a number of titles-turned-features over the decades, including The Mask, Hellboy, American Splendor, 300 and Sin City.

Below is an excerpt from this morning’s release:

“Dark Horse Entertainment has an incredible roster of fantastical, witty and mind bending stories,” said Dawn Olmstead, Executive Vice President of Development, Universal Cable Productions. “Their brand has conquered multiple media platforms and boasts iconic books that have attracted the highest level of writers.  It’s going to be a wild and imaginative ride.”

“As the landscape of narrative storytelling evolves, Dark Horse is thrilled to be working in the golden age of television with Universal Cable Productions. Their creative team has embraced the spirit of the Dark Horse brand and we’re proud to be partnered with them.” said [Dark Horse Founder, Mike] Richardson.

With this deal, a plethora of Dark Horse titles could be optioned for live-action production; three series are currently in development: The Umbrella Academy, co-created by Gerard Way and Gabriel Ba, Harrow County by Cullen Bunn and Tyler Crook, and Back Up by Tom Vaughn. The most surprising and series currently in development by UCP is Paul Chadwick’s Concrete, one of Dark Horse’s most iconic and beloved series.

The potential for this collaboration between creators and UCP could be extensive, given the bevy of successful producers that work under the Universal umbrella. Some of which include Wes Craven, Sam Esmail (Mr. Robot), Gale Anne Hurd (The Walking Dead) and Valhalla Entertainment, and Jason Blum’s Blumhouse Productions.

Expect occasional updates as this new deal kicks into high gear!