Tuesday, July 28, 2015

Blue Skies Forever by Lewis Smith (2015)


If anyone is still following ROJ at this late date, you are probably stunned. Yes, this is a new update! No, this is not a sign of a grand revival. We are instead here to celebrate a milestone with an anniversary picture by series creator Lewis Smith.

2015 is the 20th anniversary of the creation of Return of Jetman. This had totally escaped my notice until Lewis posted this piece. It's a symbolic meeting of Jet Phoenix and the Gai Yuki incarnation of Black Condor. Amazingly, this is the first time Lewis has ever drawn Yuki!

Thank you, Lewis, for not only this picture and launching ROJ in the summer of 1995, but for entrusting your story and characters to me. As I have said, ROJ helped me find my own voice as a storyteller and gave me the confidence and ability to go out and explore my own worlds. I owe you a tremendous debt.

And thank you all for the memories.

Artwork © Lewis Smith. Originally posted July 9, 2015.

Jet Phoenix © Christopher Elam & Lewis Smith. Based on characters from CHOJIN SENTAI JETMAN (© TV Asahi/Toei/Toei Agency). Black Condor © TV Asahi/Toei/Toei Agency.