Marvel Taps Best-Selling Author Jonathan Lethem To Pen New Comic Book Series Based On "Omega The Unkown"

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NEW YORK - Omega the Unknown, the enigmatic super hero first introduced by Marvel Comics in the 1970s, will be re-introduced early next year in an updated series written by Jonathan Lethem, the critically praised author best known for his novels "The Fortress of Solitude" and "Motherless Brooklyn," which won a National Book Critics Circle Award.

The series will mark Jonathan Lethem's first comic book writing effort. The initial storyline will center on a teenage prodigy from Washington Heights, and his relationship with Omega, a mysterious and silent Super Hero from another world. The 10-issue series will launch in early 2006.

Lethem is working with artist Farel Dalrymple and colorist Paul Hornschemeier on the series.

"I'm an enormous fan of Jonathan's writing, especially his rich and emotional portrayal of Brooklyn," said Joe Quesada, Editor-in-Chief of Marvel Comics. "While Omega the Unknown was a relatively obscure series from the 70s, Jonathan remembers it vividly from his youth, and I know that his new exploration of this hero will delight traditional comic fans and definitely appeal to a whole new audience of fans drawn to his imaginative and powerful storytelling."

Jonathan Lethem commented, ""Omega the Unknown is a great character -- a kind of archetypal super hero who's also a blank slate. The original story had an uncanny power over my imagination, and seemed potentially to have the intrigue and complexity of a great novel. I've always been drawn to comics as a medium and this chance to work with Marvel -- and to revive this character and bring his story to fulfillment -- is a kind of a dream-come-true for me."


Marvel Comics is a division of Marvel Enterprises, Inc., a leading global character-based entertainment company that has developed and owns a library of more than 5,000 characters, which have entertained generations around the world for over 60 years. Marvel's operations are focused in entertainment and consumer product licensing and comic book publishing. Marvel Studios supports the development of feature films, DVD/video products and TV series. Marvel's creative team also supports the creation of video games and toy lines based on its characters as well as for a broad and growing range of consumer products and services including apparel, collectibles, foods and promotions. Marvel's comic book division is a leading publisher in the global marketplace while also serving as an invaluable source of intellectual property. Marvel's Toy Biz division is a recognized creative force and leader in toy design, sales and marketing, developing and overseeing both licensee and in-house toy lines. For additional information visit https://www.marvel.com