HELLO KITTY Comics Press Release: IDW Publishing Partnership
HELLO KITTY is officially bringing her signature brand of kawaii to the comic book industry as IDW Publishing and Sanrio announce a major new partnership. Revealed today, this collaboration aims to celebrate one of the most beloved pop culture icons in the world, spreading friendship, kindness, and joy through the medium of sequential art. This initiative ensures that fans of all ages can enjoy uplifting stories that capture the fun spirit of the Sanrio franchise.
The powerhouse creative team behind the first series includes:
- Writer: Mariko Tamaki (Zatanna: Bring Down the House, This One Summer)
- Artist: Cody Lemieux (Gnome Granny, Despite, Despite, Despite)
- Cover Artists: Min Ho Kim & Justine King
- Publisher: IDW Publishing
The launch of the new line begins with HELLO KITTY: HELLO WORLD!, a brand-new series that follows Hello Kitty and her friends as they embark on an epic world tour. Mariko Tamaki, an Eisner Award-winning writer with a deep authority over character-driven narratives, will guide the journey. By pairing her scripts with the exuberant, animated art style of Cody Lemieux, IDW promises a reading experience that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.
A New Era of Joy for HELLO KITTY
What readers should prepare for in HELLO KITTY: HELLO WORLD! is a classic and lovable depiction of the Sanrio cast. The narrative kicks off with a global mission to solve a mysterious riddle, leading the characters through a variety of international locales. In every issue, Hello Kitty and her companions will meet new characters, expanding the scope of the universe and emphasizing the theme that “you can never have too many friends.”
The debut issue is scheduled to hit comic shop shelves on July 22, 2026. This timing is particularly significant as it coincides with the week of San Diego Comic-Con, one of the biggest events in the industry. IDW Publishing CEO Davidi Jonas expressed his excitement for the project, noting that it is an honor to team up with Sanrio to craft comics that uplift readers of every age. Transitioning from her status as a merchandise icon to a comic book protagonist allows for a more new comics focused exploration of her world.
Solving a Global Riddle
The visual presentation of the series is a major highlight for anyone tracking comic book covers. The reveal featured a classic Cover A by Min Ho Kim and a charming variant by Justine King, both of which capture the whimsy and joy of the brand. Associate Editor Bixie Mathieu emphasized that the creative team is pouring their hearts into the series to ensure that the exuberant art on the page matches the quality of the storytelling.
Furthermore, the partnership between IDW and Sanrio is set to extend far beyond the initial series. Following the conclusion of HELLO KITTY: HELLO WORLD!, the publisher has already hinted at more comics and high-profile crossovers arriving in 2027. This suggests a long-term commitment to building a “Kitty-verse” that can compete with the most popular latest releases in the market. It is a mathematical certainty that longtime fans and new readers alike will find this series to be a delightful addition to their collections.
In addition to the physical comic books, IDW plans to utilize these stories to provide an inspiring and heartfelt experience unlike anything else currently available. As the riddle-solving tour takes the cast around the globe, the lessons of kindness and unity remain the central hook. Consequently, the series is positioned as a mandatory read for anyone who appreciates the “pure” side of the medium.
In conclusion, the arrival of HELLO KITTY at IDW Publishing is a milestone event for fans of all-ages storytelling. By collecting some of the industry’s most talented creators to handle the Sanrio legacy, the publisher has guaranteed a high standard of quality. Whether you are following the mystery of the world tour or simply soaking in the adorable visuals, this series is a must-buy. Don’t miss this portal into the world of Sanrio when the first issue hits shops this July!
📢 Join the Conversation
Are you ready to say hello to the new IDW series? Which Sanrio friend are you most excited to see on the page? Join the conversation on X and tag us @comicbookaddt to share your excitement for the Hello Kitty world tour!
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