Hello Kitty Goes Comic Book Cute in IDW Publishing’s Adorable New Series
Image: IDW Publishing
The world of comics is about to get a serious dose of kawaii charm. IDW Publishing has officially teamed up with Sanrio to bring one of pop culture’s most beloved icons into an all-new storytelling space — and yes, it’s as cute as you’re imagining.
With a brand-new comic book line starring Hello Kitty, the collaboration promises heartwarming adventures, colorful artistry, and stories designed to delight longtime fans and newcomers alike. For Fashion and Fandom readers who love when nostalgia meets fresh creative energy, this launch feels like the perfect crossover moment between fandom culture and feel-good storytelling.
A World Tour Begins in Hello Kitty: Hello World!
Cover art by Justine King
Image: IDW Publishing
The new publishing partnership kicks off with Hello Kitty: Hello World!, a globe-trotting comic series that sends Hello Kitty and her friends on an international adventure filled with riddles, discoveries, and new friendships.
Each issue follows the crew as they travel to a different destination, solving clues while meeting brand-new characters along the way — a storytelling format that feels tailor-made for readers who love episodic adventures with a wholesome twist. Expect a classic portrayal of Sanrio’s universe, emphasizing kindness, curiosity, and connection across cultures.
Even better? The debut issue arrives July 22, 2026, landing the same week as San Diego Comic-Con — basically guaranteeing major buzz among collectors and pop culture fans.
A Creative Team Bringing Heart to the Page
Cover art by Min Ho Kim
Image: IDW Publishing
Leading the series is Eisner Award–winning writer Mariko Tamaki, known for emotionally rich storytelling in titles like This One Summer and Zatanna: Bring Down the House. Her work often balances warmth, humor, and emotional depth — an ideal fit for Hello Kitty’s optimistic world.
The visual side of the series comes from animated artist Cody Lemieux, whose expressive and playful style promises vibrant visuals that capture the exuberant energy Sanrio fans know and love.
For IDW Publishing CEO Davidi Jonas, the collaboration represents both an honor and an opportunity to expand the reach of all-ages comics. “It’s truly an honor to team up with Sanrio to create HELLO KITTY comics,” Jonas shared. “We’re thrilled to craft comics that celebrate the cute and fun spirit of the franchise while uplifting readers of every age. We can’t wait for these comics to bring inspiring and joyful stories to comic shops everywhere.”
Associate Editor Bixie Mathieu echoed that excitement, emphasizing how naturally Hello Kitty’s world translates into comics storytelling. “It’s time! Hello Kitty and her friends are coming to the comic world with IDW,” Mathieu said. “These beloved characters have been delighting fans for generations, and it’s easy to see why — their joy, whimsy, and friendship make for uplifting storytelling.”
That focus on positivity and accessibility is central to the project’s vision — creating stories that longtime fans can cherish while welcoming a new generation of readers into comic shops.
Why Hello Kitty and Comics Are a Perfect Match
Hello Kitty has long transcended mediums — appearing across fashion collaborations, collectibles, animation, and lifestyle brands worldwide. Expanding into comics feels like a natural evolution, especially as all-ages storytelling continues to thrive within pop culture.
The format allows for episodic adventures, new character introductions, and imaginative world-building while staying true to the franchise’s core message of friendship and positivity. For fans, it’s a new way to experience a familiar world — one page at a time.
What’s Next for Hello Kitty Comics
Hello Kitty: Hello World! marks only the beginning of this publishing partnership. IDW Publishing and Sanrio have already confirmed additional comic titles — and even crossover projects — arriving in 2027, with more announcements expected soon.
If this debut series is any indication, Hello Kitty’s next era isn’t just expanding — it’s opening a whole new chapter filled with adventure, creativity, and unmistakable kawaii magic.
