Brian Cunningham joins AfterShock Comics as editor in chief

AfterShock Comics has announced that they’ve hired Brian Cunningham, a former editor at DC, as their new editor in chief. Cunningham replaces Mike Marts, who departed the company for a new position at Mad Cave Studios.

“AfterShock stands for quality comic books, and there’s a reason why they’ve grown to be a major player in the industry, as dedicated as they’ve been to working with creators to tell their best stories across a variety of genres. I’m thrilled and grateful to be called upon to carry on that tradition and build on that success,” Cunningham said in a statement.

Cunningham brings more than 25 years of comics industry experience to AfterShock. While at DC, Cunningham oversaw titles like Superman, Justice League, Wonder Woman, The Flash and the Eisner Award-winning (and Smash Pages favorite) Superman’s Pal Jimmy Olsen. He was laid off from DC back in 2020, along with many others, and has worked on several comics in a freelance capacity since then. He’s also a part-time instructor at UCLA.

“Brian Cunnigham brings to AfterShock a long track-record of success, excellence and respect,” said Joe Pruett, AfterShock publisher and chief creative officer in a statement. “He’s one of a few that when you say, ‘His reputation speaks for itself,’ you can actually back it up with a slew of advocates and admirers. He brings a healthy thirst for ‘good story’ and professionalism to his work, and as AfterShock looks to the future, I’m excited to have Brian’s vision helping to lead the way.”

AfterShock also announced that Chris Ryall, the former IDW president and CCO, will work with Aftershock as a publishing consultant, starting next month. Ryall is currently spearheading World of Syxygy Publishing, whose comics are published through Image Comics.

“My relationship with Chris goes back 15 years or so when my Desperado Publishing imprint moved under IDW’s corporate umbrella,” Pruett said. “To say that the man is accomplished would be understating how much of an impact he has had in the comics community over the past two decades. Not only does he have a great eye for talent and story (Locke & Key anyone?), but he’s also never been one to stand still. I can’t wait to regularly pick his brain.”