Marvel To Relaunch ‘Hulk’ With Mark Waid and Mark Bagley

A theme of Marvel's recent relaunches has been creator change. More often than not, the announcement of a new #1 issue coincides with the reveal of some creative shakeup, whether it be a new artist, writer or both. Today's announcement continues that trend, as Marvel has revealed plans for Hulk #1, a relaunch of the current Hulk series with a new direction. Mark Waid will be staying on as writer, and he'll be joined on the title by new series artist Mark Bagley.

The news was revealed earlier today via a joint interview with Waid and Bagley on CBR. Though both creators are longtime comic veterans, this title represents their first collaboration, and they each spoke to their excitement about finally working together. "Mark and I have been wanting to work together for years, and now's the chance," said Waid. "We're both very much of the mindset that story comes first, before style, before flair -- story first. And he's a true storyteller." According to Bagley, the

Hulk #1 will follow shortly after Indestructible Hulk #20. The final issue of that series, Indestructible Hulk #20 finds Banner dealing with the aftermath of Inhumanity, bringing the character to an "important realization" regarding his motivations for working with S.H.I.E.L.D. to once again apply his genius to scientific advancement. "How much of his re-dedication has to do with genuinely wanting to help the world -- and how much has to do with his own ego?" says Waid. That moral question is what leads to the launch of the new title, with the events of Hulk #1 beginning mere hours after the conclusion of Indestructible Hulk #20.

As for Bagley, his enthusiasm about the collaboration was evident, as was his belief regarding what he can bring to the series. "He comes at character really well, does the super hero elements really well, and still tries to keep the comics accessible to kids," said Bagley of Waid. "I still see this as sort of a kids' medium. I know it's not anymore. I know the demographics and all of that, but if I can draw what they're giving me to draw so that a young person can enjoy it as much as an adult than I'm being a positive influence on the book."

Hulk #1 arrives in stores in April.