In the late 90s, when faced with massive financial problems, one of the most interesting and popular  imprints of Marvel Comics began – Marvel Knights. Led by Joe Quesada and Jimmy Palmiotti, the titles focused on characters considered low profile at Marvel – Daredevil, Black Panther, Punisher and the Inhumans. Yes, a lot of characters that everyone knows now, thanks in part to expanding into other media. 

One reason Marvel Knights was a popular imprint was that it wasn’t concerned with long storylines and continuity issues. These were primarily single-issue stories, something that anyone could pick up and read, whether being a big fan or knowing very little about a character. Another reason was the talent – creators included the likes of Garth Ennis, Brian Michael Bendis and Steve Dillon, among others. And it’s the line that gave Joe Quesada an exclusive contract with Marvel, leading a few years later to him becoming editor-in-chief.

In 2006, Marvel Knights joined the Marvel Universe and characters played bigger roles in the main line of comics. The imprint was shelved in 2013. Last week, however, Joe Quesada announced at Comic-Con International that Marvel Knights would be returning for a 20th anniversary celebration. Venom writer Donny Cates is leading the way with this fall’s MK20 one-shot featuring characters from the original imprint. So far, Marvel hasn’t announced anything beyond the one issue, but hopes are for a revival of the line.