A live-action television series based on Lee Falk’s classic comic book “Phantom” is in the works, directed by “Candy Cane Lane” and “Sydney” filmmaker Reginald Hudlin, Variety reports.
Hudlin will direct and produce the television series, which is in development at Hearst-owned King Features.
“The Phantom” comic book predecessor to Batman and Iron Man first appeared 90 years ago, and its famous “The Ghost Who Walks” character is credited as the first costumed superhero. The character has received more attention in recent years with digital versions of comics, including the launch of Alex Segura’s webcomic Phantom 2040, which puts a modern spin on the classic myth.
The Hearst-owned Phantom series boasts more than 29 million readers worldwide in key international markets including Scandinavia, Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, the UK, Europe and India.
A new “The Phantom” comic series will be released by Mad Cave Comic in 2025, with additional releases planned over the next two years. According to Hearst, The Phantom will also include “a significant immersive location-based entertainment experience to be announced later this year.”
In addition to his work in film and television, Hudlin is also a veteran of the comics world. Hudlin previously wrote the “Black Panther” issue for Marvel Comics and is currently part-owner of the comic book company Milestone Media. A feature film based on Milestone’s Static Shock characters is currently in development.
“The development of a live-action series of the iconic comic The Phantom marks a pivotal expansion for this brand to meet the current cultural zeitgeist,” CJ Kettler, president of King Features, said in a statement to Variety. “By partnering with award-nominated director Reginald Hudlin, who has a deep respect for the comic book industry and the source material itself, we are confident that this film adaptation will meet the high expectations of long-time fans and new fans around the world.”
