Blumhouse is set to launch a major, multi-platform franchise based on James Tynion IV’s global comic book phenomenon, Something is Killing the Children. The title from BOOM! Studios will be simultaneously adapted into a live-action feature film and a separate adult animated television series.
This adaptation solidifies the comic’s status as a modern classic. It is the most successful original horror comic since The Walking Dead, having sold over 5 million copies worldwide.
Two giants in the horror industry will shepherd the franchise: Jason Blum of Blumhouse. The second is series co-creator James Tynion IV. He will executive-produce the animated series and produce the film.
“It’s easy to see why audiences and critics alike have praised Something is Killing the Children,” said Jason Blum. “James and Werther’s comic book series taps into our most primal fears, luring us into a fascinating world and introducing Erica Slaughter, the ass-kicking hero we all wish we had to fight the monsters that lurk in the dark.”
Something is Killing the Children introduces a chilling world where children can see monsters, but adults cannot. The series follows Erica Slaughter, a formidable monster hunter working for a mysterious organization. This group is less concerned with saving victims and more focused on keeping the monsters’ secret hidden from the rest of the world.
Co-creator James Tynion IV expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership: “Something is Killing the Children is the comic book that changed my life and career forever. Nobody understands horror better than Blumhouse, and I can’t wait for the world to see what we all have planned together.”
The source material is an unparalleled success story. Since its debut in 2019, the series has been translated into over 20 languages. It has also won multiple Eisner Awards—the highest honor in comics. Tynion IV made history by becoming the first writer since Alan Moore to win the Eisner Award for Best Writer three consecutive years (2021, 2022, 2023) for his work on the title.
The franchise’s success extends to its massive spinoff, House of Slaughter, which launched with over half a million copies sold. With the comic set for a guaranteed 100-issue run following Penguin Random House’s acquisition of BOOM! Studios, the stage is set for a multi-decade horror narrative.
Producers include Stephen Christy, James Tynion IV (for BOOM! Studios/Penguin Random House), and Jason Blum (for Blumhouse). James Tynion IV and Stephen Christy are executive producers. WertherDell’Ederaa (series co-creator) is co-producing.
