“The Rocketeer” New Comic Unites Amelia Earhart for February 2026
Dust off your leather aviator jackets and polish your rocket packs, because one of the most underrated heroes of the ’90s is blasting back into the spotlight. You read it right, The Rocketeer is returning, and it’s going to be the pulp adventure that we’ve all been waiting for.
The Rocketeer – A True Classic
If you were around in 1991, you might remember the original film starring Billy Campbell. It was a beautiful homage to the serial heroes of the 1930s, complete with Art Deco aesthetics, Nazi spies, and a charmingly naive hero named Cliff Secord who stumbles upon a jetpack. Despite being a critical darling and a fan favorite for those in the know, the movie just didn’t connect at the box office. It was a sci-fi gem that, for whatever reason, got lost in the shuffle.
But true classics never really die. Since 2011, IDW Publishing has kept the flame alive with various specials and anthologies. Now, they’re giving Cliff Secord the revival he truly deserves. Here’s to hoping he flies high!
What is The Rocketeer’s New Mission?
Get ready for “The Rocketeer: The Island.” Set to launch in February 2026, this new series isn’t just another story; it’s a legacy project. The entire comic is inspired by a never-published outline from the original creator himself, the late, great Dave Stevens. This is probably as close as we’ll ever get to a new and true tale straight from the mind that started it all.
The plot sounds like pure, unadulterated pulp fiction genius. Set in 1938, the story kicks off with our hero, The Rocketeer, embarking on a daring mission to rescue none other than famed aviator Amelia Earhart. Yes, that Amelia Earhart. Cool!
His quest leads him to a mysterious, uncharted island, and as you can probably guess, it’s teeming with bizarre threats and unexpected dangers. It’s the kind of high-flying, two-fisted adventure that made the original comics so beloved.
Who is the Team Behind the Revival?
Bringing a lost vision from a legend like Dave Stevens to life has its challenges, but IDW comics has assembled a creative powerhouse lineup to make it happen.
- Writer: John Layman (“Chew,” “Titans”): A seasoned pro known for his sharp, witty storytelling. Layman himself has called it “an absolute blast” to play in this retro world, honoring a hero he’s loved for so many decades.
- Artist: Jacob Edgar (“Batman: The Adventures Continue”): Edgar is tasked with living up to the high artistic bar set by Stevens and other greats who have drawn the character. He’s aiming to bring a dynamic energy to every page.
- Colorist: K.J. Díaz (“Amazing Spider-Man”): Díaz will be responsible for bringing the vibrant, pulpy world of 1938 to life.
This isn’t just a money-making sequel; it’s a true passion project. The team’s homage and reverence for the source material is there. They understand they’re not just making another comic – they’re preserving a legacy.
Why This Rocketeer Story Matters
The return of The Rocketeer is more than just a nostalgic trip. It’s a chance to see a story, conceived by its creator, finally told. For fans who have followed Cliff Secord’s journey from his first appearance decades ago to the underrated 1991 film, “The Rocketeer: The Island” is a monumental event.
It represents a perfect storm: a beloved character, a “lost” story from the original creator, and a top-tier creative team ready to do it justice. If you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer trying to figure out what all the fuss is about, this is the perfect moment to jump right on board.
Mark your calendars for February 2026. The Rocketeer is now ready for takeoff, and this is one high-flying adventure you definitely won’t want to miss.
