As the toy and collectibles market continues to evolve, the intersection between comic book narratives and collectible interest remains prominent. Notably, Garth Ennis’s upcoming miniseries, Babs, returning with Babs: The Black Road South, exemplifies this dynamic, appealing to both collectors and new readers.
Launching in 2024, Garth Ennis collaborated with Jacen Burrows to introduce Babs—a comedic foray into the sword and sorcery genre, which satirizes classic figures like Red Sonja and Conan the Barbarian through the misadventures of its titular protagonist driven by greed and misfortune.
The eagerly anticipated sequel, Babs: The Black Road South, is set to release this week. The solicitation reads:
BABS THE BLACK ROAD SOUTH #1 (OF 6) CVR A JACEN BURROWS (MR)
(W) Garth Ennis (A/CA) Jacen Burrows
“BABS is sharp, subversive, hilarious, and absolutely one of the best comics of 2024,” states CBR, heralding the return of Ennis and Burrows’s sharp satire. This installment invites Babs and her partner Izzy into a bizarre scenario where they unexpectedly find themselves with money, a development that leads them on a dark journey through the wasteland of Mordynn. The issue will retail for $4.99, with a release date of January 14, 2026.
In an insightful discussion, CBR engaged Ennis about this new series…
CBR: While there were a number of side adventures in the first volume, the main plot focused on Tiberius Toledo. Is there a significant adversary in The Black Road South?
Garth Ennis: Yes, there are two primary adversaries. One is a powerful overlord whose malevolence devastates entire continents, while the other is smaller yet far more troublesome for Babs.
Image via AHOY Comics
During our last conversation regarding the first volume, you noted how Babs’ greatest flaw was her greed. With her newfound wealth, is this series focused on what happens when those issues are resolved?
Indeed, her flaws will intertwine, exacerbating her new fortune and propelling her down the Black Road South. Previously undiscussed issues will surface, igniting unforeseen dangers.
Will familiar characters like Culpepper return along with the new assemblage of characters?
Culpepper is back, as his character is too engaging to leave behind. We’ll also introduce a number of new characters including Lilith Lazuli, the barbarian queen, and a host of other nefarious figures, expanding the storyline significantly.
Image via AHOY Comics
Izzy plays a crucial role throughout the narrative. Will her involvement be heightened in this new volume?
Absolutely. Izzy is central this time around. Her dynamics with Babs provide a more tempered perspective, as she plays a protective yet equally chaotic role in Babs’ adventures.
Image via AHOY Comics
Sword and sorcery narratives often capture a spirit of fun amidst chaos. How does this thematic element resonate in Babs?
The series capitalizes on the genre’s antics, cleverly mocking its tropes while introducing whimsically unique characters—like a dragon with existential musings—adding layers to the traditional narrative.
Image via AHOY Comics
As you move forward, do you often consult Jacen about the specifics of what should be illustrated in the upcoming volumes?
Our collaboration hinges on instinctive trust; I know he’ll excel at interpreting my scripts, and he trusts me to provide engaging content that challenges him appropriately.
Image via AHOY Comics
Considering the legacy of sword and sorcery, do you believe the genre has enough potential to sustain Babs long-term?
I see plenty of opportunities within the genre. While I cherish Babs as a character, her flawed nature creates endless storytelling potential, allowing me to craft engaging plots well into the future.
Babs: The Black Road South #1 is releasing this week from AHOY Comics, proving its relevance not only as an entertaining comic but also as a collectible for fans of the genre.
Based on reporting by Brian Cronin. Read the full story at https://www.cbr.com/garth-ennis-interview-legendary-creator-babs-interview/.