Bobby Curnow’s Return as IDW EIC

Article by August Tales

IDW Publishing has ushered in a new era. Bobby Curnow is now the editor-in-chief. He’s not an unfamiliar face, having clocked twelve years at IDW before a two-year hiatus. Curnow took on the role of editor-in-chief for Magma Comix in that intervening period.

A Familiar Face and a New Addition

Joining Curnow at IDW is another industry bigwig, former DC editor Andy Khouri. He’ll oversee the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles comics as Senior Editor. Certainly, these are promising additions to the IDW team.

Curnow defies the old adage that ‘you can’t go home again’. He has. His return to IDW marks a full circle. Curnow honed his skills in comic artistry at IDW. Now, he’s back in the saddle, ready to guide creators to bring their visions to life.

Hardcore Turtles Fan

Khouri, on his part, brings an authentic fanaticism for the Turtles to the table. Audiences first encountered the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles some four decades ago. Khouri was part of that initial entourage of fans. He’s thrilled to work with characters that shaped his childhood.

Both Curnow and IDW’s CEO and publisher, Davidi Jonas, heap praises on Khouri. Curnow lauds Khouri’s intelligence, creativity, and communication skills. His fanboy status with the TMNT series only sweetens the deal. The IDW team views Khouri as the beacon guiding the Turtles forward.

Navigating Rough Waters

However, it hasn’t been smooth sailing for IDW of late. Jamie S. Rich and Mark Doyle, who formerly filled Curnow and Jonas’s shoes, left the company earlier this year after brief stints. Rich found a new home at Filip Sablik’s ongoing venture, while Doyle’s departure was unfortunately accompanied by layoffs.

IDW still leans heavily on licensed titles, the TMNT comics being a case in point. The company also pins hopes on creator-owned successes like Beneath the Trees Where Nobody Sees. Nevertheless, turbulence prevails as they’ve lost important licenses, such as the Hasbro Universe and Dungeons & Dragons.

Hopefully, Curnow and Khouri can live up to the expectations bearing down on them. Their task is not just to stir up creativity but also appease investors.