Key Takeaways:
- A new John Carter of Mars animated series is in development, 13 years after the failed Disney film.
- The project is helmed by Michael Kogge and will feature anime-style visuals inspired by series like Castlevania.
- More details are expected during San Diego Comic-Con 2025 at the Burroughs estate panel.
Burroughs Estate
More than a decade after Disney’s John Carter stumbled at the box office, the legendary sci-fi hero is getting a fresh start. A new John Carter of Mars animated series is now in development, spearheaded by showrunner Michael Kogge and backed by the estate of author Edgar Rice Burroughs, according to a report from The Wrap.
The announcement arrives ahead of San Diego Comic-Con, where fans can expect to get a first look during a dedicated panel this Friday.
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Classic Sci-Fi Hero Returns to the Spotlight
First introduced in 1912, John Carter is one of the most iconic figures in pulp science fiction. Created by Edgar Rice Burroughs—also known for Tarzan—the character has inspired generations of genre storytelling, including major franchises like Star Wars and Flash Gordon.
The story centers on a Confederate Civil War veteran who, after a brush with death in the American Southwest, finds himself mysteriously transported to Mars, known as Barsoom. There, Carter discovers new civilizations, alien species, and the superhuman strength granted to him by the planet’s lower gravity.
Anime-Inspired Animation to Revitalize the Franchise
Kogge’s new animated take is said to draw inspiration from popular adult animation titles like Castlevania, Blood of Zeus, and Twilight of the Gods, hinting at a darker, more stylized visual approach. Though details remain scarce—including which platform the series will debut on—Kogge is expected to reveal more during the Comic-Con panel.
Kogge previously adapted Burroughs’ work into an audio drama, which is reportedly in production with a full voice cast. While the release date for the audio project is unclear, it’s likely to precede the animated series.
Disney’s 2012 Flop Still Haunts the Franchise
The last major screen adaptation of John Carter came in 2012 with Disney’s big-budget live-action film. Despite its ambitious scope and source material, the movie bombed both critically and commercially, halting any plans for sequels and setting the franchise adrift.
Now, with full creative control returned to the Burroughs estate and a new format better suited to serialized storytelling, fans are optimistic about this second chance for John Carter.
Conclusion: A New Era for Barsoom Begins
After years in limbo, John Carter of Mars may finally get the screen treatment it deserves. With anime-inspired visuals and Burroughs’ estate leading development, this adaptation could reignite interest in one of sci-fi’s foundational heroes.
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