Yesterday's NBC press release has confirmed production of the graphic novel compilation, trading cards, posters, calendar, apparel, action figures (I know that answers a lot of the emails I've received), and a video game (as rumored):
The publishing category is the cornerstone of the early licensing program. Expanding on the comic book lore created by the series, DC Comics will develop a hardcover compilation book of the popular online Heroes graphic novels currently available on NBC.com. The new book, which is slated to be available worldwide this fall, will also include the original Tim Sale artwork as seen on the show, offering fans a one-of-a-kind entertainment collectible. Random House will introduce "Saving Charlie," an original novel based on the characters Hiro and Charlie created by Tim Kring. The story is scheduled for release in late 2007. Finally, Titan Publishing will launch the official Heroes magazine. A bi-monthly publication uniquely presented in comic book style, the magazine will lift the lid on the lives of the stars of the show, from the actors and actresses to the back room special effects experts.
In addition to the publishing program, Universal has named several top-tier partners to create product for release this fall and winter in the U.S. and Canada. Trading card manufacturer Topps has been tapped for a full line of trading cards featuring the Heroes characters and in-depth episodic coverage. The trading card packs will also include randomly inserted one-of-a-kind rare cards such as autographs, hand-drawn artist sketches and cards embedded with a piece of actual costume material worn on the show. WizKids Inc., a subsidiary of Topps and creator of the award-winning "Clix" Collectible Miniatures Game system, will be adding Heroes into their HeroClix line, which already includes characters from the DC, Marvel and Dark Horse universes. MeadWestvaco will introduce a 2008 calendar, and Scorpio Posters will add traditional wall posters to the merchandising mix. In addition, Changes will develop an officially licensed Heroes apparel line.
Premier collectibles maker, Mezco Toyz will be responsible for developing toys and specialty product including collectible action figures, dioramas and deluxe figures in a variety of scale sizes ranging from 3" to 18", all inspired by the characters and themes from the Heroes universe. Mezco's Heroes product will hit retail in early 2008.
Finally, Universal Pictures Digital Platforms Group and Ubisoft, one of the world's largest video game publishers, are partnering to create an interactive video game based on and inspired by the Heroes universe.
In addition, some details were released regarding some international products:
On the international front, several licenses have been confirmed with product launching in late 2007. GBEye Limited will launch a series of posters in the UK while Trademark will handle apparel in that territory and Danilo Promotions Ltd. will develop 2008 calendars for both the UK and Ireland. In Italy, Edibas Srl. will unveil a series of calendars, stickers and photo albums later this year while partner ZigZag will launch posters in Germany during the same timeframe.
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