Marvel’s Epic Comics: SUSPENDED

At 6:09 PM Marvel issued a press release stating that the EPIC comics program as been suspended. They claim its due to “overwhelming response” — but we hear differently.

Click to read the entire press release

******** PRESS RELEASE **************

Due to the continuing overwhelming response to its EPIC Comics open submissions call, Marvel Comics is temporarily suspending acceptance of any new EPIC submissions.

“The response has simply been incredible, and because of the high volume of pitches we’re still receiving, we’re no longer going to be able to evaluate them and respond to aspiring creators in a fair and reasonable time frame,” explained EPIC editor Teresa Focarile. “Creators who have taken the time and energy to go through the submission process are entitled to a timely response.

“Now that we realize the level of response and the kind of commitment these projects require, we are going to restructure the EPIC process across all editorial offices and implement some new procedures that will hopefully have us back on track before too long.”

“Meanwhile, the early results have been extremely positive, and we’ve already found new talent whose Epic projects fans will not only see in 2004, but who are also working on and pitching for projects within the regular Marvel editorial offices, like John Jackson Miller, writer of his own EPIC series Crimson Dynamo and premiering this month as the new regular IRON MAN writer.”

While new EPIC Comics submissions are no longer being accepted for now, Marvel reminds creators that they ARE STILL looking for new writers on an ongoing basis, and the standard submission options are still in place. Details can be found at Marvel.com at http://www.marvel.com/about/submissions_guide.

In addition to getting the opportunity to pitch for new projects, writers found though this process may also be showcased in two new, ongoing bimonthly titles premiering in early 2004 – SPIDER-MAN UNLIMITED and X-MEN UNLIMITED. Each title will feature 2 stories debuting new writers teamed with established artists telling stories about Marvel’s biggest icons.

“We’re still seeking and developing new talent and have created showcases just for these new writers, and just for the time being we’re scaling down the EPIC process to give aspiring creators the attention and professional response they merit,” concluded Focarile.