BOOM! Studios on Tuesday released a slew of new details about Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: The Return, the limited comic series from Amy Jo Johnson.
The four-issue series is co-written by filmmaker Matt Hotson, with art by Nico Leon (Ms. Marvel). The first issue hits shelves Feb. 7, 2024, or you can preorder it through BOOM! Studios' Direct Reserve campaign on Kickstarter for special perks, including variant covers.
Johnson conceived the story during the COVID-19 pandemic with her boyfriend, Hotson. Her story imagines an alternate future where the original MMPR team of six never parted ways. She said she was inspired by all the stories of fans who related to characters like Kimberly.
"We became friends to many who faced bullying, challenging home situations or were on a journey of self-discovery," Johnson said in a statement. "What this show has meant to an entire generation was beyond my initial intentions when I took on this role, but it has become one of the most precious gifts of my life. This comic book is my heartfelt love letter to all of you."
Johnson said Leon's "childhood love for the show" showed through his art, which will include a number of details fans will pick out.
Since leaving the show, Johnson, 53, has branched out beyond acting to recording, writing and directing. This is her first comic book project.
The story was teased in the recent Mighty Morphin Power Rangers 30th Anniversary Special No. 1. It takes place in a world where the rangers defeated Rita Repulsa and Lord Zedd, but at great cost. Twenty-two years later, the team reunites to mourn their losses as Zack and Billy learn that Jason, who has been operating as a lone vigilante, has disappeared.
“As the actress behind the original Pink Power Ranger, I'm stepping into the world of comic books and unleashing my creative vision with a 'what if' story that reimagines the enduring bond of the original Power Rangers," Johnson said. "What if the original Power Rangers had never parted ways? Where would they be 30 years later? This comic is our 'what if' scenario and my heartfelt love letter to the entire generation that has kept these characters alive for 30 years!”
BOOM! Studios promises additional surprises and reveals as the Kickstarter campaign continues.
"To round out our year-long celebration of the monumental 30th anniversary of Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, we wanted to give you, the fans, a real first look at the incredible alternate vision of the beloved franchise that Amy Jo, Matt, and Nico have been building,” said Filip Sablic, president of publishing and marketing for BOOM! Studios.
