"Catacomb of Torment Honors Classic Horror Comic Cover"

1954's Crime SuspenStories #22 stands as a landmark in horror comics, renowned for its chilling cover art featuring a man brandishing an ax and holding his wife's severed head. This iconic image not only seared itself into the public consciousness but also played a pivotal role in sparking the anti-comics backlash of the 1950s, which ultimately led to the establishment of the Comics Code Authority and the downfall of EC Comics.

Fortunately, EC Comics has risen again under the banner of Oni Press, and their latest venture fittingly honors Johnny Craig's infamous cover. IGN is thrilled to exclusively unveil artist Jay Stephens' tribute cover for Catacomb of Torment #1, which is part of an ongoing series celebrating classic EC Comics. Take a look at this striking homage:

For a side-by-side comparison, here's Johnny Craig's original cover for Crime SuspenStories #22:

Catacomb of Torment is just one of several new titles launching as part of EC Comics' "Summer of Fear" initiative at Oni Press. This horror anthology series boasts contributions from acclaimed creators such as John Arcudi, Marguerite Bennett, Dan McDaid, Matt Kindt, David Lapham, and Tonči Zonjić. Joining it are Blood Type by Corinna Bechko and Andrea Sorrentino, and Cruel Universe 2 featuring works by J. Holtham, Kano, Ann Nocenti, David Rubín, and Greg Smallwood.

Oni Press President & Publisher Hunter Gorinson expressed enthusiasm about the EC Comics line, stating, "Our EC Comics line is not only the best-selling line of comics in Oni's near-30-year history, they're also an insanely fun thing to work on. So, after exceeding our own already-high expectations with Epitaphs From the Abyss, Cruel Universe, and Cruel Kingdom last year, we're challenging ourselves to get bolder and bigger – and bloodier! – on all fronts as EC enters the second year of its milestone resurrection."

Oni Press Editor in Chief Sierra Hahn added, "Working on EC for the last year has been incredibly inspiring for everyone working on the series – from the team at Oni to our partners building these bite-sized worlds at each level of production. It's a real joy to continue bringing these entertaining morality tales to life with the best storytellers in the business. This summer's slate of comics is no exception."

For a closer look at Blood Type and Catacomb of Torment, explore the slideshow gallery below:

EC Comics' Summer of Fear Preview Gallery

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The "Summer of Fear" initiative kicks off with the release of Blood Type #1 in June 2025.

For more insights into classic comic book art, don't miss our selection of the most iconic superhero comic book covers of all time.