The Rocketeer Returns But Not How Movie Fans Wanted

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While many American comics were becoming darker and more realistic, The Rocketeer felt like a return to the exciting, classic adventure stories of the past. Its unique, old-fashioned style quickly gained a dedicated fanbase, and in 1991, it was adapted into a beloved movie. Fans have been eager for a sequel ever since, but instead of another film, the story is continuing in a different way.

I first discovered The Rocketeer back in the ’80s, and it quickly became a favorite of mine! It was created by Dave Stevens in 1982, and it really took off in the independent comics scene. Originally, the character – Cliff Secord, a super-cool pilot – showed up in another comic called Starslayer, but he was so popular he got his own series. It was a big success, but sadly, Dave had a tough time with getting it published consistently, and it moved between five different companies before he passed away in 2008. It’s a shame, but his work still holds up!

Attempts to make a sequel to The Rocketeer have faced many difficulties. The original plan was for the movie to launch a three-film series, but it didn’t earn as much money as Disney expected. After about twenty years, Disney started working on a sequel again in 2012, but the project went through numerous changes with different writers, directors, and concepts.

A new installment, originally titled The Return of the Rocketeer, was planned with a storyline featuring a former Tuskegee Airman taking on the role of the Rocketeer. Unfortunately, the project hit a snag when director J.D. Dillard left in 2022. While actor David Oyelowo and his wife Jessica remain involved as producers, and Oyelowo may still star, the story will continue in a new comic book series called The Rocketeer: The Island, which is based on previously unreleased ideas from the original creator, Dave Stevens.

What is the story of The Rocketeer: The Island?

In “The Rocketeer: The Island,” Cliff Secord embarks on a rescue mission, searching for the legendary Amelia Earhart, who vanished in 1937. The story, set in 1938, leads him to a mysterious island filled with unexpected discoveries.

IDW Publishing, which has published Rocketeer comics since 2008, will release ‘The Rocketeer: The Island.’ The story is being adapted into a comic script by award-winning writer John Layman, based on an outline by Dave Stevens. Jacob Edgar will provide the illustrations, and K.J. Díaz will handle the coloring.

Layman said it’s been a joy working with Dave Stevens’ unique world – a fun, charming, and action-packed retro setting. He praised Stevens as a masterful artist and believes The Rocketeer is a timeless and beloved comic book character. Jacob Edgar agreed, calling The Rocketeer an iconic figure and acknowledging the high artistic standard the character represents.

The Rocketeer: The Island #1 arrives in comic book stores everywhere on February 25, 2026.

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2025-11-15 01:07