For more than two decades, Empire has stood as one of comics' most fascinating creator-owned experiments—a story that begins where most superhero tales end. In this episode, the Bandits are joined by #comics legends Mark Waid and Barry Kitson to discuss the enduring legacy of their acclaimed series and the new Empire Deluxe Hardcover crowdfunding campaign on Zoop. The duo looks back on the origins of the project, which dared to ask what happens after the villain wins, and reflects on the challenges and triumphs of bringing the story to life during the turbulent Gorilla Comics era. Mark and Barry share behind-the-scenes stories about developing Golgoth's world, revisiting the series decades later, and assembling the definitive deluxe edition packed with archival material, sketches, and never-before-seen artwork. Along the way, they discuss creator-owned comics, crowdfunding, the lasting appeal of Empire, and what the future may hold for one of comics' most unique and influential universes.

You have 9 days left to back the project right here: zoop.gg/c/empire.

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