EC Comics Revives Horror Legacy with Catacomb of Torment Cover Tribute

The 1954 Crime SuspenStories #22 remains one of the most notorious horror comics ever published. Its chilling cover, depicting a man with an ax and his wife’s severed head, is instantly recognizable. This infamous issue fueled the 1950s anti-comics movement, birthed the Comics Code Authority, and contributed to the downfall of EC Comics.

EC Comics has risen again under Oni Press, and its latest release honors Johnny Craig’s controversial cover. IGN exclusively unveils Jay Stephens’ artwork for Catacomb of Torment #1, a nod to the classic EC era. See it below:

For reference, here’s Johnny Craig’s original Crime SuspenStories #22 cover:

Catacomb of Torment joins other new EC titles in the “Summer of Fear” campaign. This horror anthology showcases stories by John Arcudi, Marguerite Bennett, Dan McDaid, Matt Kindt, David Lapham, and Tonči Zonjić. Alongside it, Corinna Bechko and Andrea Sorrentino’s Blood Type and J. Holtham, Kano, Ann Nocenti, David Rubín, and Greg Smallwood’s Cruel Universe 2 debut.

“Our EC Comics line is the top-selling series in Oni’s nearly 30-year history and an absolute thrill to create,” said Oni Press President and Publisher Hunter Gorinson. “After surpassing our ambitious goals with Epitaphs From the Abyss, Cruel Universe, and Cruel Kingdom, we’re pushing boundaries with bolder, bloodier stories as EC enters its second year of revival.”

“Crafting EC Comics this past year has been a true inspiration for everyone involved, from Oni’s team to our partners shaping these gripping tales,” said Oni Press Editor in Chief Sierra Hahn. “It’s a privilege to bring these compelling morality stories to life with top-tier creators. This summer’s lineup is no exception.”

Explore Blood Type and Catacomb of Torment in the slideshow gallery below:

EC Comics' Summer of Fear Preview Gallery

Summer of Fear launches with Blood Type #1 in June 2025.

For more legendary comic art, explore our selections of the most iconic superhero comic covers ever created.