Is the comic strip dead? episode artwork

EPISODE · May 21, 2026 · 1H 5M

Is the comic strip dead?

from Comic Lab · host Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett

The newspaper comic strip didn't go extinct — it evolved. But if your work doesn't keep up, your career may be fossilized! From Reddit-ready square comics to vertical-scroll storytelling, they explore how creators are adapting to phones, social media, and changing reading habits while keeping the heart of the comic strip alive. Topics covered The evolution of newspaper comic strips Why horizontal strips existed in the first place How phones changed comics formatting Square-format comics on Reddit and social media Vertical-scroll storytelling Why readers won’t rotate their phones Charles Schulz and the flexible-format origins of Peanuts Newspaper syndication vs. modern web distribution YA graphic novels as the next evolution for newspaper strips Lincoln Peirce and the success of Big Nate books Why comic strips are still thriving online Modular comic formatting for webcomics The launch of The Comic Scout  Dave Kellett's Hugo Award nomination anticipation Tips for maintaining visual consistency in comics Workflow advice for newer cartoonists   You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published May 21, 2026

Embed this episode

The newspaper comic strip didn't go extinct — it evolved. But if your work doesn't keep up, your career may be fossilized! From Reddit-ready square comics to vertical-scroll storytelling, they explore how creators are adapting to phones, social media, and changing reading habits while keeping the heart of the comic strip alive.

Distinct summary based on available episode metadata or transcript content.

Ready to play

Is the comic strip dead?

0:00 1:05:21

No transcript for this episode yet

We transcribe on demand. Request one and we'll notify you when it's ready — usually under 10 minutes.

RetConversations Retconversations Have you ever wanted to understand a comic book storyline but didn't have the patience or sanity? Leia and Josh to the rescue! They take a guest through a comic book storyline step by arduous step! Explicit High and Dry Podcast with Oisín Hanlon and Darach McGarrigle Darach McGarrigle and Oisín Hanlon Join comedians Oisin Hanlon and Darach McGarrigle for jokes, stories, and more.Oisín Hanlon is an Irish comic with a high energy act who has performed worldwide throughout America and Europe at legendary clubs like The Comedy Store(London) Caroline’s(New York), Upright Citizens Brigade(New York), New York Comedy Club, Laugh Factory (Chicago).–   Finalist of the Amused Moose Competition 2018, Edinburgh Fringe Festival.– Headlined stage at Dublin Vodafone Comedy Festival 2018– Headlined stage at Barcelona Comedy Festival 2019– Founder of the Riff-Raff Comedy Club based in Dublin and Galway.“Brilliantly Funny” – Irish Independent“There’s definitely something funny and distinctive in Oisin Hanlon’s bones…he’s got an appealing, intriguing vibe and a winning, offbeat flow.” – Steve Bennett of Chortle.co.u [http://chortle.co.uk/]kPatreon: @oisinhanlon [https://www.patreon.com/oisinhanlon]Website: oisinhanlon.com [https://oisinhanlon.com/]Insta: @oisinhanlon [https://www.instagram.co Explicit word balloon the comic book creators interview show john siuntres audio interviews featuring pop culture discussions of comic books, Films ,TV, DVDs, Animation, Novels, and other cult entertainment. Explicit AIPT Comics AIPT An exploration of the comic book art form via weekly insights, news, and creator interviews. Covering it all from Marvel Comics and DC Comics to indies publishers and creators too. Explicit

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of Comic Lab?

This episode is 1 hour and 5 minutes long.

When was this Comic Lab episode published?

This episode was published on May 21, 2026.

Can I download this Comic Lab episode?

Yes. Use the download control on the episode player to save the publisher-provided media file.
URL copied to clipboard!