1954's Crime SuspenStories #22 stands out as one of the most notorious and iconic horror comics ever published. Even if the title doesn't immediately come to mind, you're likely familiar with the striking image of a man wielding an ax and holding his wife's severed head. This particular comic played a significant role in sparking the anti-comics backlash of the 1950s, which ultimately led to the establishment of the Comics Code Authority and the downfall of EC Comics.
Fortunately, EC Comics has been resurrected as a new imprint under Oni Press. In a fitting tribute to the past, the latest release from EC Comics honors Johnny Craig's controversial cover art. IGN is excited to exclusively unveil artist Jay Stephens' cover for Catacomb of Torment #1, which is part of an ongoing series paying homage to classic EC works. Take a look at the cover below:
Art by Jay Stephens. (Image Credit: Oni Press)
For a side-by-side comparison, here's the original cover of Crime SuspenStories #22 by Johnny Craig:
Art by Johnny Craig. (Image Credit: EC Comics)
Catacomb of Torment is just one of several new titles launching under the EC imprint's "Summer of Fear" campaign. This horror anthology series features contributions from acclaimed creators such as John Arcudi, Marguerite Bennett, Dan McDaid, Matt Kindt, David Lapham, and Tonči Zonjić. Joining Catacomb of Torment are Blood Type by Corinna Bechko and Andrea Sorrentino, and Cruel Universe 2 by J. Holtham, Kano, Ann Nocenti, David Rubín, and Greg Smallwood.
Oni Press President & Publisher Hunter Gorinson shared his enthusiasm, stating, "Our EC Comics line is not only the best-selling line of comics in Oni's near-30-year history, they're also an insanely fun thing to work on. So, after exceeding our own already-high expectations with Epitaphs From the Abyss, Cruel Universe, and Cruel Kingdom last year, we're challenging ourselves to get bolder and bigger – and bloodier! – on all fronts as EC enters the second year of its milestone resurrection."
Oni Press Editor in Chief Sierra Hahn added, "Working on EC for the last year has been incredibly inspiring for everyone working on the series – from the team at Oni to our partners building these bite-sized worlds at each level of production. It's a real joy to continue bringing these entertaining morality tales to life with the best storytellers in the business. This summer's slate of comics is no exception."
For a closer look at Blood Type and Catacomb of Torment, check out the preview gallery below:
EC Comics' Summer of Fear Preview Gallery
18 Images
The "Summer of Fear" campaign kicks off with the release of Blood Type #1 in June 2025.
For more classic comic book art, explore our selection of the most iconic superhero comic book covers of all time.
