Hellboy Teases a Special 2025 Comeback With New Dark Horse Series

Hellboyis back with a new series, in a period piece set in the 1960s, which will set the BPRD on a collision course with the "Golden Crane Society." The story will star Susan Xiang, with Hellboy playing a pivotal supporting role, in another expansion of the already rich, detailed world of Mike Mignola's beloved comic book franchise.

As first shared by AIPT, Shadow of the Golden Crane – written by Chris Roberson, with art by Michael Avon Oeming – is the latest story "from the world of Hellboy," and while it will feature the eponymous devil-spawn, the series is intended to spotlight Sue Xiang, another character who has established themselves as a fan-favorite in previous appearances.

Hellboy Shadow of the Golden Crane #1 cover featuring Sue Xiang and Hellboy.

The story of Xiang's tenure with the BPRD will get filled out in a little more detail with this miniseries, and it is likely that there are some surprises in store, even for loyal Hellboy devotees.

Preview Dark Horse Comics' Latest Hellboy Miniseries & Find Out What Is In Store For The BPRD When The Issue Drops

Shadow of the Golden Crane #1 – Written By Chris Roberson; Art By Michael Avon Oeming; Color By Chris O'Halloran; Lettering By Clem Robbins

Shadow of the Golden Crane is a four-issue limited series, set in the 1960s, which ties into the franchise's previous titles which have chronicled the exploits of Hellboy and the BPRD during the preceeding decade, the 1950s. Described in the advanced synopsis for Golden Crane #1 as a "paranormal puzzle that unfolds across time," the series will notably offer new, exciting details about BPRD analyst Sue Xiang's character history – charting the next steps in her future, while also teasing a dive into "the questions in her own family past" as well.

The preview for Shadow of the Golden Crane #1 gives little away about the overall trajectory of the plot, of course; rather, it is devoted to situating readers in the world of the Hellboy franchise once more. Sue Xiang is introduced at her desk, before rapidly being drawn into a battle against a supernatural antagonist alongside Hellboy and other BPRD characters. For readers familiar with the '50s era stories about the BPRD's exploits, the preview instantly suggests that this book will be a return to form – even if Hellboy himself is only set to play a secondary role.

The "Hellboy" Franchise Is About More Than Just Its Title Character – That's What Makes It Great

Shadow of the Golden Crane #1 (Of 4) – Available Now From Dark Horse Comics

Hellboy reeling as if he has been struck by a blow.

The longevity of the Hellboy franchise can be attributed to several factors. Of course, there is the fact that the character has cultivated a dedicated fanbase over the years, and has become familiar beyond comic book circles thanks to several film adaptations. There is also the in-universe fact that Hellboy himself is long-lived, which has allowed creator Mike Mignola and his associated writers the opportunity to tell stories at different points in the character's life, such as the 1950s-set BPRD adventures.

Hellboy's greatest strength has become its roster of unique and memorable heroes, and this series will continue to add to that mythos.

Beyond that, however, the Hellboy franchise has thrived because of its eclectic cast of exciting characters beyond just its eponymous hero, with Sue Xiang being just one of many characters who have proven themselves just as worthy of the spotlight as Hellboy himself. Golden Crane gives Xiang that opportunity, while also exploring another point on the franchise's timeline, making it a thrill for new and old Hellboy readers alike. Over time, Hellboy's greatest strength has become its roster of unique and memorable heroes, and this series will continue to add to that mythos.

Source: AIPT Announcement

Shadow of the Golden Crane #1 is available now from Dark Horse Comics.

Hellboy

Movie(s): Hellboy, Hellboy II: The Golden Army, Hellboy, Hellboy: The Crooked Man
Created by: Guillermo del Toro, Mike Mignola
First Film: Hellboy
Latest Film: Hellboy
Upcoming Films: Hellboy: The Crooked Man
Cast: Ron Perlman, Selma Blair, Doug Jones, David Harbour, Ian McShane, Milla Jovovich

The "Hellboy" film franchise is based on the Dark Horse Comics character Hellboy, created by writer-artist Mike Mignola. The films follow Hellboy, a demon raised by humans, who works for the Bureau for Paranormal Research and Defense (B.P.R.D.) to protect humanity from supernatural threats. The franchise combines elements of horror, fantasy, and action.