Posted By Dan Greenfield on Mar 10, 2024 | 2 comments

JAMIE L. ROTANTE takes you behind the scenes…

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We’ve got a fun two-fer for you this weekend. I’m a big fan of Archie’s MLJ heroes and was really taken with The Jaguar #1, the publisher’s latest refresh of an old-school character. Archie Comics chief Mike Pellerito has a look at the Jaguar’s evolution since the Silver Age over here, and the company’s senior director of editorial, Jamie L. Rotante, gives you a glimpse behind the scenes below. Dig it. — Dan

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By JAMIE L. ROTANTE, Archie Comics Senior Director of Editorial

When writer Keryl Ahmed Brown submitted her first pitch for The Jaguar, it was almost perfect, except for one thing: It was so reverential to iterations that came before, Ivette Velez’s story and unique voice almost got lost.

Keryl had no problem addressing this and delighted in the ability to go full tilt into re-establishing Ivette’s history and role as the Jaguar, crafting a story that honors the history while being wholly new and accessible to new readers and, hopefully, a new generation of fans.

2012’s version

There are elements of what came before, especially in New Crusaders, i.e. Ivette being an orphan from a young age, Ralph Hardy as her mentor passing the torch (in his case, the Jaguar helmet). But Keryl further explored Ivette’s tragic back story and her own issues grappling with these unique, newfound powers.

Costume concepts by Tango

Tango’s wonderful artwork depicts both the tender heart-wrenching moments of Ivette confronting her tragic past, and the action sequences where she harnesses her power, complemented by Ellie Wright’s vibrant color palette.

There’s always a thrill in getting to revamp a classic superhero. There’s a legacy to uphold, which can feel intimidating at first, but one my favorite parts is working with a team to put a fresh coat of paint on a pre-existing character.

The crew on The Jaguar did an excellent job of doing just that.

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MORE

— 13 THINGS You Need to Know About THE MIGHTY CRUSADERS. Click here.

— 13 COVERS: The Best of THE MIGHTY CRUSADERS. Click here.