1954's Crime SuspenStories #22 stands out as one of the most infamous and iconic horror comics ever published. Even if you don't recognize the title, you're likely familiar with its notorious cover art featuring a man wielding an ax and holding his wife's severed head. This comic played a significant role in sparking the anti-comics backlash of the 1950s, leading to the establishment of the Comics Code Authority and ultimately contributing to the decline of EC Comics.
Fortunately, EC Comics has made a triumphant return as a new imprint under Oni Press. In a fitting tribute to the past, the latest release from EC Comics honors Johnny Craig's controversial cover art. IGN has the exclusive reveal of artist Jay Stephens' cover for Catacomb of Torment #1, which is part of an ongoing series celebrating classic EC tributes. Take a look at the cover below:
Art by Jay Stephens. (Image Credit: Oni Press)
For a point of comparison, here's Johnny Craig's original cover for Crime SuspenStories #22:
Art by Johnny Craig. (Image Credit: EC Comics)
Catacomb of Torment is one of several new EC titles launching as part of the imprint's "Summer of Fear" promotion. This horror anthology series features contributions from acclaimed creators such as John Arcudi, Marguerite Bennett, Dan McDaid, Matt Kindt, David Lapham, and Tonči Zonjić. It will be accompanied by Blood Type by Corinna Bechko and Andrea Sorrentino, and Cruel Universe 2 by J. Holtham, Kano, Ann Nocenti, David Rubín, and Greg Smallwood.
Oni Press President & Publisher Hunter Gorinson shared his excitement, stating, "Our EC Comics line is not only the best-selling line of comics in Oni's near-30-year history, they're also an insanely fun thing to work on. So, after exceeding our own already-high expectations with Epitaphs From the Abyss, Cruel Universe, and Cruel Kingdom last year, we're challenging ourselves to get bolder and bigger – and bloodier! – on all fronts as EC enters the second year of its milestone resurrection."
Oni Press Editor in Chief Sierra Hahn added, "Working on EC for the last year has been incredibly inspiring for everyone working on the series – from the team at Oni to our partners building these bite-sized worlds at each level of production. It's a real joy to continue bringing these entertaining morality tales to life with the best storytellers in the business. This summer's slate of comics is no exception."
For a closer look at Blood Type and Catacomb of Torment, explore the slideshow gallery below:
EC Comics' Summer of Fear Preview Gallery
18 Images
The "Summer of Fear" promotion kicks off with the release of Blood Type #1 in June 2025.
For more classic comic book art, check out our picks for the most iconic superhero comic book covers of all time.
