You wouldn’t know it by looking at its characters, but Marvel Comics is celebrating its 80th anniversary this year. The publisher is releasing Marvel Comics #1000 to commemorate the occasion. However, it turns out that there will also be a number of ways for fans to join in the festivities starting at the end of next month.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Marvel is recognizing August 31 as its official birthday. Technically, this doesn’t mark the actual birth of the company. Its precursor, Timely Comics, was founded in January 1939. In October of that same year, it published its first issue, Marvel Comics #1, which introduced the android Human Torch. Regardless of any quibbles over the correct date, Marvel Entertainment President Dan Buckley couldn’t be happier with what they have planned.
“Going back to Marvel’s inception in 1939, Marvel Comics No. 1 was the spark that led to the Marvel Universe we know today,” said Buckley in a statement. “As one of the most influential milestones in Marvel history, Aug. 31 is the perfect day to officially honor Marvel’s birthday.”
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Longtime readers can also expect celebrations at a variety of different locations. For one week, fans can visit comic shops, Disney Stores, FYE, and other retailers to get their hands on exclusive merchandise, activations, and giveaways. More details will be revealed in the weeks to come. But until then, the publisher is offering some new artwork courtesy of Adam Kubert that features several heroes surrounding a giant birthday cake.
“For myself and almost every other comic book fan around the world, Marvel’s beloved comics and characters have been a part of our lives for as long as we can remember,” said Marvel editor-in-chief C.B. Cebulski. “But it all started with the Human Torch. As we salute Marvel’s 80th anniversary this year, we’re excited to celebrate Marvel’s official birthday.”
You can check out Kubert’s full artwork below. Are you excited to learn about what Marvel is planning for its 80th birthday? Tell us what you think in the comment section!
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