Reginald Hudlin Develops New Live-Action The Phantom TV Series
A new live-action television series inspired by Lee Falk’s renowned comic strip “The Phantom” is under development. Reginald Hudlin, known for his work on projects like “Candy Cane Lane” and “Sidney,” will helm this venture as both director and producer. The show is currently being developed at King Features, a subsidiary of Hearst.
About “The Phantom”
First introduced 90 years ago, “The Phantom” is often regarded as the first costumed superhero, predating iconic characters like Batman and Iron Man. The titular character, known as “The Ghost Who Walks,” has gained renewed interest through digital editions and modern adaptations, such as the “Phantom 2040” webcomic created by Alex Segura.
A Growing Franchise
The franchise boasts a substantial global readership of over 29 million, with significant followings in regions such as:
- The Nordics
- Australia and New Zealand
- Brazil
- The United Kingdom and Europe
- India
Additions to the franchise include a new comic book series launched by Mad Cave Comics, set for 2025 release, along with plans for future installments in the following years.
Upcoming Projects
Besides the live-action series, Hearst has revealed plans for a “significant immersive location-based entertainment experience,” scheduled for announcement later this year.
Reginald Hudlin, a veteran in both the film and comic book industries, has a notable history with “The Phantom.” Having previously written issues of “Black Panther” for Marvel, he is also a co-owner of Milestone Media, which is developing a feature film based on Static Shock.
Statements on the Development
C.J. Kettler, president of King Features, expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, “The development of a live-action series for the iconic comic strip ‘The Phantom’ marks a pivotal expansion to meet the current cultural zeitgeist for this brand.” He added that collaborating with Hudlin, who respects the source material, would ensure the adaptation meets the expectations of both longtime enthusiasts and new fans alike.
