Two comic book legends have decided to dust off their drawing boards and work together for the first time in over 30 years. Frank Miller and Todd McFarlane are reuniting for what might be the most exciting variant cover collaboration we’ve seen in decades, and really? It’s about friggin’ time. The dynamic duo is bringing their combined artistic firepower to The Curse of Sherlee Johnson #3, hitting shelves this September.
When Legends Collide: The Frank Miller-Todd McFarlane Partnership
Remember when these two powerhouses last worked together? We’re talking 1994’s Wizard Magazine #32, back when flannel was still cool and everyone thought the internet was just a fad. Now, three decades later, they’re back with what promises to be an absolutely jaw-dropping collaboration.
Frank Miller is providing both pencils and inks for his variant cover, with colors by Alex Sinclair adding that final polish. But here’s where things get really interesting – there’s also a 1:25 black-and-white incentive variant featuring Miller’s pencils re-inked by Todd McFarlane himself. If that doesn’t make your collector heart skip a beat, you might want to check your pulse.
The collaboration feels particularly meaningful when you consider Miller’s artistic evolution. His recent work has sparked some heated debates in the comic community (and some of those debates got pretty spicy), but there’s no denying his unique visual style still commands attention on comic shop shelves.
More Than Just Pretty Pictures
This isn’t just about two industry titans flexing their artistic muscles. The covers are gracing The Curse of Sherlee Johnson #3, a series that’s been quietly building its own dark corner within the Spawn Universe. Written and illustrated by Daniel Henriques with inking by Jonathan Glapion, the series follows Sherlee and the mysterious Stranger as they navigate increasingly dangerous supernatural territory.
In this particular issue, our protagonists barely survive their latest ordeal, carrying heavy consequences while a distant camp offers potential sanctuary. But because this is the Spawn Universe we’re talking about, that “sanctuary” probably comes with its own set of nightmarish complications. Ancient forces are stirring, Heaven is making its descent, and Beliafon is positioning himself for something big.
Todd McFarlane is excited about the collaboration, stating,
Working with friends is always fun. Working with Frank Miller is even better. His impact on comics is undeniable, and being able to collaborate again decades later feels like being a giddy kid all over.
Frank Miller echoed that sentiment with his characteristic directness:
Todd and I started in comics for the same reason: the joy of making them. Every now and then, we get to do it together—and it feels like we’re just a couple of kids again.
The Complete Cover Collection
The Curse of Sherlee Johnson #3 is issuing a variety of covers. The issue will feature multiple cover options for collectors and fans:
- Cover A by Jonathan Glapion (Lunar Code 0725IM317)
- Cover B by Daniel Henriques (Lunar Code 0725IM318)
- Cover C by Frank Miller (Lunar Code 0725IM1130)
- Cover D 1:25 B&W Incentive Variant by Frank Miller and Todd McFarlane (Lunar Code 0725IM1131)
That incentive variant is going to be the holy grail for collectors. With a 1:25 ratio, comic shop owners will need to order 25 copies of the regular issue to get one incentive copy. Translation: these babies are going to be rare, expensive, and probably fought over at conventions for years to come.
Why This Collaboration Matters
Both Frank Miller and Todd McFarlane emerged as revolutionary creators in the 80s and 90s. They changed how we think about storytelling and artistic expression in comics. This is Frank Miller’s first Spawn cover in 25 years.
Miller’s noir sensibilities (à la Sin City) and innovative panel layouts influenced countless creators, while McFarlane’s detailed, gorgeous artwork helped shape the Image Comics revolution. Seeing them work together again absolutely feels like watching comic book history in real time.
The creative team behind The Curse of Sherlee Johnson seems genuinely thrilled about the collaboration. Henriques called it “a dream come true,” adding, “I’ve looked up to these gentlemen my whole life, and their support has been one of the highlights of my career.”
Glapion was equally enthusiastic:
I’m humbled and honored that Frank and Todd would take the time to come together to support our book by doing such a badass cover!
The Bigger Picture
This collaboration comes at an interesting time for both the creators. Todd McFarlane has been expanding the Spawn Universe – with multiple ongoing series and spin-offs. Frank Miller has been more selective recently.
Their collaboration shows both artists are still passionate about pushing artistic boundaries and supporting newer creators in the industry. It’s not just about the big names anymore – it’s about elevating quality storytelling wherever it appears.
The Curse of Sherlee Johnson #3 hits comic shops on September 17, with a Final Order Cutoff of August 25. Mark your calendars, set your alarms, and maybe start sweet-talking your local comic shop owner now. Something tells us these covers are going to disappear faster than free pizza rolls at a comic convention.
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