Deadpool, the mouthy mercenary producing big box-office sales, may soon set a record at a comic-book auction. Cover artwork featuring Deadpool’s first appearance in the comics went on sale this week at Heritage Auctions with an asking price of $7.5 million. If it sells at that price, it will be the most valuable comic-book art ever sold. The pencilled artwork was created by writer/artist Rob Liefeld, at age 23, for New Mutants #98, which was released in February 1991. Liefeld does not own the artwork. He sold it to a collector 25 years ago, although he said he is thrilled that the character he created is doing so well financially. “I just keep smiling,” said Liefeld about the auction. Ryan Reynolds plays Deadpool in the box-office hit Deadpool & Wolverine, a movie from Walt Disney-owned Marvel Studios. The film ranks as the highest-grossing R-rated movie of all time with more than $879 million in global ticket sales. When New Mutants #98 was released in 1991, the comic book cost $1. Now the original editions have become one of the most sought-after comics for collectors, with issues selling from $350 to $55,000 on eBay. “Selling artwork was part of the income stream back then,” Liefeld told Reuters. “I sold this 25 years ago. I have zero regrets.” Liefeld created Deadpool as a combination between Spider-Man and G.I. Joe. Immediately after his first appearance, Marvel Comics was flooded with fan mail. “Marvel contacted me and said, this is the most fan mail we’ve had on a new character in 15 years,” said Liefeld. “They were flooded with letters, fan letters, which they sent me. And the box that that mail arrived in … I thought I was getting a washer and dryer,” he joked. The current record holder in comic-book auctions is a copy of Action Comics #1, which features the first appearance of Superman and sold for $6 million earlier in the year, also at Heritage Auctions. Have something to add to the story? Share it in the comments below. facebook twitter whatsup linkded email COMMENTS
Pakistani actress Sanam Saeed expressed satisfaction with the feedback received for her web series Barzakh, stating that the response matched her expectations despite the recent controversy surrounding the show in Pakistan.
In an interview with Indian media, Saeed described the feedback for Barzakh as “overwhelming,” citing elements that attracted viewers to the show.
“There are certain aspects in Barzakh that grabbed people’s attention. Some viewers didn’t understand the show initially, but if they watch it carefully, they’ll get it. The audience’s reaction was exactly what we anticipated,” she said.
Saeed also addressed her Indian fans, describing them as “long-lost siblings” due to their shared cultural heritage.
“We’ve grown up in different homes but share the same roots. Essentially, we come from the same land but have evolved differently over the years. It’s heartwarming to reconnect with long-lost siblings,” she remarked.
The show, directed by Asim Abbasi, known for Churails and Cake, has sparked significant debate due to its bold themes and content.
Since its debut two weeks ago, Barzakh has garnered attention for its portrayal of controversial topics, including non-heteronormative storylines.
In response to the backlash, Zindagi announced the removal of Barzakh from YouTube Pakistan, effective August 9.
The decision was made “in light of the current public sentiment,” according to a statement on Zindagi’s Instagram.
Fans in Pakistan have until August 9 to catch the final episode, set to air on August 6.
The show has polarised viewers, with some praising its narrative and performances, while others criticised it for lacking “family-friendly” content.
Abbasi has defended his creative choices, stating, “With all due respect, if you find queer/non-heteronormative storylines ‘distasteful,’ please do not watch my content. I will always champion the rights of all and tell stories that we believe in.”
The controversy has led to a boycott campaign by some Pakistani fans, who claim that the series violates Islamic principles.
Critics have targeted the director and stars, including Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed, for participating in a project that they allege promotes indecency.
Despite the controversy, Saeed remains optimistic about her work and the positive reception from audiences. “The feedback has been exactly what we expected, and I am grateful for the support,” she stated.
