IDW Publishing’s horror imprint, IDW Dark, is set to unleash a new wave of terror in 2026 with four new comic series, including adaptations of the blockbuster horror films Smile and A Quiet Place. This move signals a major expansion for the imprint and a significant moment for fans of both comics and horror cinema.
Caption: IDW Dark’s upcoming horror lineup features adaptations of popular franchises including Smile and A Quiet Place
Credit: IDW Publishing/IDW Dark
Source: AIPT Comics
What Is IDW Dark?
Launched in October 2024, IDW Dark is the dedicated horror imprint of IDW Publishing. In partnership with Paramount Consumer Products, the imprint aims to bring a new level of fear to the comic book world, drawing from both original concepts and established horror franchises. With a growing library that already includes titles like Event Horizon: Dark Descent and The Twilight Zone, IDW Dark is quickly becoming a go-to source for chilling tales. The recent announcement of four new series for 2026, including major movie tie-ins, solidifies the imprint’s commitment to delivering high-quality horror content.
The New Wave of Horror: What’s Coming in 2026?
The 2026 slate from IDW Dark is a horror fan’s dream, featuring a mix of prequel stories, sequels, and wild new concepts. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
Series | Release Date | Writer | Artist | Franchise |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Smile: For the Camera | February 2026 | Hannah Rose May | Miriana Puglia | Smile Films |
A Quiet Place: Storm Warning | March 2026 | Phil Hester | Ryan Kelly | A Quiet Place Films |
The Exorcism at Buckingham Palace | March 2026 | Hannah Rose May | Kelsey Ramsay | Original/Sequel |
Operation: Iron Coffin | July 2026 | Kenny Porter | Tyrell Cannon | Dracula/Original |
Smile: For the Camera – The Sinister Grin Returns
Kicking things off in February 2026 is Smile: For the Camera, a prequel to the terrifying Smile films. Written by Hannah Rose May (Rogues’ Gallery) with art by Miriana Puglia (Red Sonja), the series is set in 2005 during New York Fashion Week. The story follows a group of international models who find themselves stalked by the sinister Smile Entity.
May expressed her excitement about expanding the Smile universe, stating, “Like how Smile 2 took us inside the world of a present-day pop star, our series throws it back to the early 2000s and drops the Entity right into the ruthless world of the modeling industry.” This fresh take on the franchise promises to explore the origins of the curse in a glamorous yet cutthroat setting.
A Quiet Place: Storm Warning – Silence is Survival
Arriving in March 2026, A Quiet Place: Storm Warning brings the silent terror of the hit film franchise to the comic page. Written by Phil Hester (Gotham City: Year One) with art by Ryan Kelly (Lucifer), the series explores how a small Iowa island town copes with the sound-hunting alien invaders.
Caption: A Quiet Place: Storm Warning brings the franchise’s signature silent terror to comics
Credit: IDW Publishing/Phil Hester/Ryan Kelly
Source: Entertainment Weekly
Hester highlighted the unique challenge of adapting the films’ signature silence, explaining, “With this series, I feel Ryan Kelly and I have replicated those qualities… Just remember to flip those pages quietly. Something unwanted might be listening.” This comic adaptation is a must-read for fans who have been captivated by the franchise’s unique brand of suspense and want to explore more of its post-apocalyptic world. For those unfamiliar with the concept, the movies are a masterclass in tension.
The Exorcism at Buckingham Palace – Royalty Meets the Demonic
Also in March 2026, Hannah Rose May returns with The Exorcism at Buckingham Palace, a sequel to her previous work, The Exorcism at 1600 Penn. Joined by artist Kelsey Ramsay (Godzilla: Heist), May shifts the demonic horror to London’s royal halls. This new series promises a fresh entry point for new readers while rewarding fans of the original. The concept of a demonic force infiltrating the British monarchy is a tantalizing premise that is sure to attract horror fans.
Operation: Iron Coffin – Dracula vs. Nazis
Rounding out the new titles in July 2026 is Operation: Iron Coffin, a pulpy action-horror mash-up from writer Kenny Porter (Superboy: The Man of Tomorrow) and artist Tyrell Cannon (Fantastic Four Fanfare). In this wild concept, Dracula is dropped into WWII to battle Nazi forces and prevent Hitler from raising a vampire army. Porter describes it as a “unique, horror/action take on the character that fans of Castlevania, Metal Gear, and Hellboy are going to love.” This series promises a high-octane, bloody ride that combines historical fiction with classic horror.
Why This Is a Huge Deal for Horror and Comic Fans
The announcement of these new titles is significant for several reasons. First, it demonstrates the growing trend of major movie franchises expanding into the comic book medium. While movie tie-in comics are nothing new, the success of films like Smile and A Quiet Place brings a massive built-in audience to these new series. This is a smart move by IDW, as the horror comics market has seen significant growth in recent years, with dollar sales up 25% in 2025 alone, according to ICv2.
Second, the creative teams attached to these projects are top-notch. Writers like Hannah Rose May and Phil Hester have proven track records in the comics industry, and their passion for the horror genre is evident in their comments about these new series. The artists, including Miriana Puglia, Ryan Kelly, and Kelsey Ramsay, are all talented individuals who are sure to bring these terrifying stories to life in vivid detail.
The Future of Horror Comics is Bright (and Terrifying)
IDW Dark’s ambitious 2026 lineup is a clear indication that the horror genre is thriving in the comic book industry. By blending established franchises with original concepts, the imprint is catering to a wide range of horror fans. Whether you’re a fan of psychological thrillers, post-apocalyptic survival stories, demonic possessions, or action-packed monster mashes, there’s something for everyone in this new wave of horror comics.
The timing couldn’t be better. With horror comics experiencing unprecedented growth and movie tie-ins proving increasingly successful, IDW Dark is positioned to capitalize on both trends. As Heather Antos, Group Editor of IDW Dark, put it, “Buckle up… because the nightmares are only getting started.”
For those interested in the business side of the industry, the growth of the manga global market has also had a significant impact on the overall comics landscape, demonstrating a global appetite for diverse and engaging stories.
What horror comic are you most excited about? Share your thoughts and stay tuned for more updates on IDW Dark’s terrifying 2026 lineup. Don’t forget to check out our coverage of other comic book industry trends to stay ahead of the curve.
References
- AIPT Comics: https://aiptcomics.com/2025/10/07/idw-dark-four-new-horror-series-in-2026/
- Bleeding Cool: https://bleedingcool.com/comics/a-quiet-place-smile-get-horror-comics-sequels-from-idw/
- ICv2: https://icv2.com/articles/news/view/60738/idw-dark-announces-new-horror-titles
