Old Gods & New

This issue celebrates the legacy of Jack Kirby's Old Gods & New, exploring his unfinished Fourth World saga and its profound influence on comics.

In the double-sized 80th issue of Old Gods & New, the Jack Kirby Collector magazine commemorates the 50th anniversary of Jack Kirby's iconic 'Fourth World' saga. This extensive examination dives into the four pivotal comics that began in 1970: New Gods, Forever People, Mister Miracle, and Jimmy Olsen. Readers are invited to explore the narrative that, while ambitious, was left unresolved, particularly the epic clash between the malevolent Darkseid of Apokolips and his heroic son Orion of New Genesis. The book seeks to answer lingering questions about how Kirby might have concluded this monumental tale, which was abruptly cut short by DC Comics.

The narrative is enriched by Kirby's own insights, alongside reflections from his collaborators such as Mark Evanier, Steve Sherman, inker Mike Royer, and publisher Carmine Infantino. Their contributions provide a comprehensive understanding of the creative process behind Old Gods & New, shedding light on the direction Kirby envisioned for his characters and stories. It also delves into Kirby's earlier depictions of gods in Thor and other works, illustrating how these themes influenced his later DC epic and shaped subsequent series like The Eternals and Captain Victory.

With a thorough overview of Kirby's extensive pantheon of characters—including Big Barda, Boom Tubes, and Granny Goodness—this publication serves as an essential companion for fans of the Fourth World. Compiled and edited by John Morrow, with additional insights from Jon B. Cooke, this issue is a treasure trove for anyone interested in the legacy of Jack Kirby and his enduring impact on the comic book industry.