Wizard
Entry updated 9 July 2015. Tagged: Publication.
US standard-size perfect-bound Media Magazine printed on newsprint to issue #7 and glossy paper thereafter. Publisher: Wizard Entertainment. Editors: Brian Cunningham to 2008, then Mike Cotton. 235 issues, July 1991 to January 2011. Publication schedule: monthly.
The most successful US publication devoted to Comics, at least in terms of circulation, which exceeded 100,000 copies at the height of its success in the mid-1990s. The magazine often took a lighthearted tone towards its subject matter, sometimes to the point of irreverence. This approach proved popular with investors, the audience at which the magazine seemed to be largely aimed, rather than the traditional comics fans. Wizard published a price guide in each issue, along with offers for items such as action figures and statues or special issues of comics titles available only from this publisher. Animation and Cinema were often covered alongside the comics material. Issues were always enclosed in plastic bags, leading to many copies being torn out of them while on display shelves. There were several now-defunct companion titles which included Toyfare and Anime Insider, respectively specializing in collectible toys and animation. By 2010, circulation had fallen drastically; the magazine briefly suspended publication, then returned for a final run ending its print edition in January 2011. A Webzine version continues as Wizard World. The magazine is also remembered for a feud with Comics artist/writer Frank Miller, who among less complimentary remarks called it a waste of paper. [GSt]
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