For the past several years Archie Comics has reintroduced some of their classic genre characters into their all-ages comics. From their superhero characters like the Crusaders to private detective Fu Chang, the company has been breathing new life into these characters while at the same time adding to the rich tapestry of Riverdale.
We’re pleased to announce that another Golden Age character will find her way to Riverdale — Fran Frazer, a photojournalist who first appeared in Top-Notch Comics #9 back in 1940. She’ll make her return in January in a new story appearing in World of Archie Jumbo Comics Digest #136 by writer Ian Flynn and artist Holly G!
Flynn has had a lot of experience revisiting these older characters and making them relevant to the modern age, having written many of the stories that integrated the Crusaders into the classic Archie universe.
“It’s always a pleasure to be entrusted with breathing new life into these older characters,” Flynn said. “I hope folks enjoy Fran’s new incarnation and ask to see more of her intrepid, glove-trotting adventures.”
Back in the 1940s, Fran Frazer found adventure, romance and danger as a photographer for Strife Magazine, which sent her on assignments around the world. Typically she worked with a reporter named Hal Davis, who will also make his return in January.
Holly G! pulled inspiration for Fran’s new look from a 1980s icon as well as classic newspaper strip character.
“When updating Ms. Fran, I looked to one of my heroes as a teen, Molly Ringwald, THEN I mixed in some classic stealth spy-wear and a nice big dash of Brenda Starr! (And yes, I totally had that hairdo back in the ’80s!)” Holly G! said.
Here’s a look at Holly G!’s first panel featuring Fran Frazer, which shows her in action as a photojournalist:
World of Archie Jumbo Comics Digest #136 will arrive in stores on Jan. 10. You can check out the cover and solicitation information below.
WORLD OF ARCHIE JUMBO COMICS DIGEST #136
TWO BRAND NEW STORIES! First, an opportunity to model alongside Young Doctor Masters sends Betty and Veronica into a toxic “health” competition until they discover that his “perfect specimen” is someone unexpected. Then, Fran Frazer and romantic rival Hal Davis help Archie and Veronica unmask corruption during an investigation!
Script: Daniel Kibblesmith, Ian Flynn
Art: Steven Butler, Holly G!, Lily Butler, Jim Amash
Colors: Glenn Whitmore
Letters: Jack Morelli
Cover: Bill Golliher, Dan Parent, Rosario “Tito” Peña
On Sale Date: 1/10
192-page, full color digest
$9.99 U.S.
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