DC Comics announced the triumphant return of its legendary Vertigo imprint at New York Comic Con 2025, unveiling an ambitious slate of ten comic book series set to launch throughout 2026[4]. The revival marks a significant moment for the comics industry, as Vertigo historically served as the premier destination for mature, creator-owned storytelling before its discontinuation in 2020[5].
The announcement came during the “DC Vertigo: We’re Back!” panel, moderated by DC Executive Editor Chris Conroy, who revealed that the new imprint will serve as “the home for creator-owned work” at DC Comics[4]. This strategic positioning differentiates Vertigo from DC Black Label, which will continue publishing mature, creator-driven stories featuring DC-owned characters and creations[4].
Launch Timeline and Flagship Title
The Vertigo revival begins February 4, 2026, with The Nice House by the Sea #7, the second cycle of James Tynion IV and Álvaro Martínez Bueno’s acclaimed horror series[1]. Following the survivors of Walter’s “hexagon” experiment, the series explores the terrifying consequences of escape and the threat it poses to what remains of humanity[1]. The title previously published under DC Black Label before being relabeled for the Vertigo relaunch[5].
Three additional series will launch weekly throughout February 2026, followed by monthly releases continuing throughout the year[4]. This aggressive publishing schedule demonstrates DC’s commitment to re-establishing Vertigo as a major force in creator-owned comics.
The Complete 2026 Lineup
Bleeding Hearts stands out among the new titles, featuring Ultimates writer Deniz Camp alongside Stipan Morian and Matt Hollingsworth[6]. The series follows Poke, a zombie who discovers his heart beating again, threatening his place in a society where death reigns supreme[6].
100 Bullets: The US of Anger represents a notable returning property, bringing back one of Vertigo’s legacy titles with its original creators[3]. The announcement excited longtime fans who remember the original series’ impact on the industry.
The remaining seven new series span diverse genres, including psychological thrillers, occult espionage, and post-apocalyptic horror[1]. These titles include End of Life, The Peril of the Brutal Dark, Black Tower, Necretaceous, Fanatic, The Crying Doll, and A Walking Shadow[3].
Vertigo’s Legacy and Impact
First launched in 1993, Vertigo established itself as the industry’s premier imprint for mature, boundary-pushing storytelling[5]. The original line produced acclaimed titles including Y: The Last Man, Preacher, Fables, Hellblazer, and Swamp Thing[5]. These series earned numerous awards and influenced generations of comics creators.
DC discontinued the imprint in 2020 under previous leadership that had an aversion to imprints, with some titles moving to Black Label while others ceased publication entirely[6]. The decision disappointed fans and creators who valued Vertigo’s unique position in the comics landscape. Several prominent creators, including Garth Ennis, subsequently moved to other publishers offering more creator-friendly contracts[6].
What This Means for the Industry
The Vertigo revival signals DC’s renewed commitment to creator-owned work and experimental storytelling. By clearly delineating Vertigo as the home for creator-owned properties while keeping DC Black Label for company-owned characters, DC has created a clear strategy for serving different creator needs[4].
The announcement generated significant excitement across the comics community, with creators and fans alike celebrating the return of an imprint synonymous with quality and innovation. The diverse lineup showcases DC’s ambition to reclaim Vertigo’s position as the industry leader in mature, sophisticated comics storytelling.
For comics fans, particularly those interested in darker, experimental narratives, the Vertigo relaunch represents one of 2026’s most anticipated publishing events. The combination of returning favorites and fresh voices promises to deliver the same groundbreaking content that made Vertigo legendary during its original run.
Sources:
[1] DC Comics Official Blog - https://www.dc.com/blog/2025-10-09/dc-unveils-ten-bold-new-comic-book-series-in-its-dc-vertigo-imprint-for-2026
[2] Threads Post by August Tales Comics - https://www.threads.com/@augusttalescomics/post/DPtqAOIClLm/dc-vertigo-is-finally-coming-back-to-life-in-2026gizmodocom-dc-vertigo-is-finall
[3] NYCC 2025 Coverage - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5cqMeOGMv28
[4] Popverse - https://www.thepopverse.com/comics-live-dc-vertigo-2026-nice-house-100-bullets-line-up-nycc-2025
[5] Comic Book Club Live - https://comicbookclublive.com/2025/10/09/dc-vertigo-new-york-comic-con-panel-recap-titles/
[6] Bleeding Cool - https://bleedingcool.com/comics/dc-vertigo-at-nycc-bleeding-hearts-by-deniz-camp-and-stipan-morian/
[7] AIPT Comics - https://aiptcomics.com/2025/10/09/dc-official-art-10-new-vertigo-series-2026/
[8] ICv2 - https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/60755/vertigo-returns-with-10-series-titles
[9] How to Love Comics - https://www.howtolovecomics.com/2025/10/10/dc-vertigo-everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-return-of-the-legendary-imprint/
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