Oni Press has unveiled one of its most ambitious new projects heading into 2027, a twelve-issue prestige maxi-series that reimagines the classic Golden Age superhero Stardust the Super Wizard through a surreal and unsettling lens. Announced ahead of New York Comic Con 2026, Citizen: Stardust represents an unusual creative pairing between Dave Baker, known for his acclaimed work on Mary Tyler Moorehawk, and Malachi Ward, who helped shape the critically acclaimed Black Hammer universe.
The series marks a bold departure from conventional superhero storytelling, positioning itself as one of the most bizarre comics to appear in 2027. IGN has secured an exclusive first look at uncolored artwork from the inaugural issue, offering early readers a glimpse into the striking visual direction that Baker and Ward have cultivated for this reimagined property.
A Surrealist Take on a Vintage Icon
The original Stardust the Super Wizard originated in the Golden Age of comics, debuting as one of the earliest sorcerer-based heroes to grace American comic books. Oni Press has chosen to strip away decades of conventional superhero tropes, instead rebuilding the character around themes that blend psychogeography, cult sacrifices, and technology beyond human comprehension.
The twelve-issue maxi-series is being produced in prestige format, a designation typically reserved for higher-quality printing and more substantial creative ambitions. This structural choice signals Oni Press’ commitment to treating the property as a landmark project rather than an ordinary continuation of existing superhero franchises.
“The probability of Stardust: The Super-Wizard becoming one of the most bizarre and unique comics to be published in 2027 seems extraordinarily high, to me,” said Baker. “Malachi Ward and I are bringing a new perspective to the superhero world informed by psychogeography, cult sacrifices, and technology beyond human comprehension. If that doesn’t make you want to read it? Just know that there’s a cat of nine tails made of human skulls.”
Dave Baker, co-creator
A Creative Partnership Forged for the Occult
The collaboration between Dave Baker and Malachi Ward brings together two distinct voices from contemporary comics. Baker gained recognition for his work on Mary Tyler Moorehawk, a series that demonstrated his willingness to explore unconventional narratives with dark comedic undertones. Ward contributed significantly to the Black Hammer universe, a critically acclaimed imprint known for its literary approach to superhero mythology.
Their combined sensibilities suggest a project designed to appeal to readers who appreciate ambitious, artistically driven comics over formulaic action fare. The surrealist reimagining of Stardust positions the series firmly within this tradition of creative risk-taking.
Looking Ahead
Citizen: Stardust is slated for release in 2027, with Oni Press building anticipation through its pre-NYCC announcement strategy. The publisher has shared an exclusive preview gallery featuring uncolored artwork from the first issue, allowing fans to examine the visual storytelling before the series officially launches.
The creative team’s willingness to embrace such unconventional subject matter—ranging from psychogeography to macabre imagery—suggests a comic that will divide readers while cultivating a dedicated following. As one of Oni Press’ flagship projects for 2027, Citizen: Stardust represents a significant moment in the publisher’s ongoing commitment to pushing superhero comics into uncharted creative territory.
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