I Miss KENNETH IRONS


There’s been something missing for me when it comes to one of my favorite ongoing comics. And it’s been on my mind ever since the end of that classic Death Pool story where we saw David Wohl‘s second run with our favored leading lady, Sara Pezzini, conclude.

In the context of that issue we saw fans vote on who lives and who dies. The result was Tora No Shi and the cutthroat billionaire Kenneth Irons got the proverbial ax with the promise that they’d stay gone. Which, to this day stands tall as law unlike Marvel or DC, who keep treating the afterlife like something that can be constantly overcome (see: Batman, Superman, Captain America, Spider-Man, The Human Torch, Robin and the Wolverine).

Witchblade 75 both covers sketched out

Sure they’ve found a way to keep his specter in play. Ron Marz introduced us to his son and we’ve seen flashbacks with other wielders (ahem, Artifacts #40). But the evil doer that populated the series from #1 to 8, #25 to 36 and #54 to 75 has stayed sixth feet under unlike Jackie Estacdo and Tom Judge.

Well it’s time to grab your shovel Top Cow and bring back the big bad! The way he beat and tortured his subordinates and manipulated others in pursuit of a lover that would never be his it was a magical era. From times with and against Level 42 to working along side Ian Nottingham the ruthless power player knew what he wanted and never gave up pursuing it.

Sejic takles a classic moment in Witchblade history

When it comes to any comic franchise. There are certain villains that stand the test of time, where would Batman be without Joker? Superman without Lex Luthor? Captain America without the Red Skull? Our heroes need someone that represents the opposite morals of them, and if they happen to have a built up history then more power to them.

Sure Sara Pezzini has fought other characters like the Curator, the Corruption Cataract, the Darkness and even her own gauntlet. But there’s no one that’s been as much of a threat to her as Kenneth Irons. I’m not asking for a full-blown resurrection, but come on, the Top Cow Rebirth and all the problems with the Ancient Ones could facilitate a return arc in time for the 20th Anniversary.

What say you my fellow fanboys and fangirls? Am I off base? Should someone else come back instead?

Sound off with your thoughts and opinions in the comments section below.

Ken wielding the Witchblade