This News Page has been rebooted as of August 6th 1997
All MICRONEWS items by Willy Jones unless otherwise noted.
bohnded@hotmail.com
Items read form newest to oldest.

New Micronauts Comic & Toys II 5/1/02

The toys are coming along great. For those of you who don't already belong I suggest you head over to Yahoo and join the Micropola Embassy Suites and be in the know with the Micropola Embassy Suites list. There's far more revealed there than I can tell you about here.

As for the comic, the beautiful new comic, I have several images here for you.
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15
(all images copyright AGE/Devil's Due 2002)
Head over to Devil's Due and check out their forums for up to the minute developments and chat regarding the new comic. It promises to be a doozie.

Both Palisades and Devil's Due have been really open to the fans. I want to thank both companies for doing what seemed would never be done. I understand there will be a lot of Micronauts merchandise all around if things go well. Get out there and support your Micronauts. It all starts this June.

New Micronauts Comic & Toys 1/4/02

Yep, you read it right. One more go is being made at a new comic and toys. Devil's Due will be creating the comic and Pallisades the toys. This time things look full tilt. I have high hopes that this will be the winner. The best part of the whole thing: Michael Golden is involved. Read more about it HERE!

Micronauts Cartoon 11/26/00

I have downloaded the Micronauts cartoon preview from Sextant's site.
I don't know how long it has been on there, not long I am sure.

Well, the ingredients are there. I was surprised to find Biotron the size he was in the Microman comic, more in relation to the others as the toy was. Acroyear is most definitely Caucasian, or at least his hands. This seems unnecessary, why change that? Then again, Mari is a teen with black hair, strange. Rann, er um...Proton, is even more barrel chested than Golden ever made him, truly a Buzz Lightyear type.

Stylistically, it is groundbreaking. It's a mix of flatter, more traditional looking animation, with photo realistic like planets and environment. Perhaps this was done for reasons of speedy rendering times, creating a less expensive product. Perhaps they wanted to go this route all along.

I can't say I expect a lot from it. I will still be disappointed if it isn't any good. If it is not any good, it will just be a bad memory, one I'd rather not have. Here's hoping it is better than it seems at first glance.

It's not that I can't enjoy cartoons geared towards children. I love Rollie Pollie Ollie! Reboot, far more adult than Rollie, is one of my fav shows of all time. (You should see season 3, can't wait for season 4!) Heck, I even like to watch Arthur from time to time. Then there's Veggie Tales...I could go on, but you get the picture. [BTW, didn't expect to like Veggie Tales at al, it's great, check out the Larry-Boy and the Fib from Outer Space episode.]

In the end, we all have to make up our own minds. I am sure many, perhaps most, will dismiss the show out of hand. I know many already have. Time will tell if it is any good.

Speaking of time, it has a release of Spring 2001.

Micronauts=Ant Men? 6/04/00

Well, not exactly. In Marvels next installment of Universe X we have a universe where Rann died in his battle during issue #11 of the original series. Here is the preview image printed in Wizard magazine's Universe X supplement. Go out and get the July cover date issue of Wizard (Wolverine and Witchblade are the varient covers). The issue number is 106. Universe X starts in July.

Micronauts=Microns? 6/04/00

Mari, Rann, and Bug appeared in Marvel's new Captain Marvel series. They were there for isue #6 last month and have a one page cameo in issue #7. Run out to your local comic shop and pick 'em up. While you are at it. Send Marvel a letter (or even e-mail) and say how nice it was to see the 'Nauts again or just that you'd like to see more.

Micronet in a Book 6/04/00

MICRONET gets a mention in "The Incredible Internet Guide to Comic Books & Super Heroes." It is on page 123 right along with "The Micronauts Home Page."

Pick up a copy, I did!

Cartoon a Go if Toys a Go 06/04/00

Spies tell me that the Micronauts cartoon has been finished but that its air time is still in question, perhaps even its home on TV. Without the new toys being produced the cartoon is still in limbo. The toys were set to make their debut at this years Toy Fair but failed to show.

Micros go Up and Down 3/31/99

It has been a long time since I have updated, for many reasons.
1) Not much good news on the Micronauts
2) Not much time lately
3) I have some other exciting projects going on

The comic is quite definetly cancelled. I have had many come to me and ask what happened. I don't have all the details. From what I understand, the property holders wanted too much from Marvel to secure the rights. Marvel is in no position right now to dish out major cash, so, no comic. The new toys seem to have disappeared entirely, rumors abound, we'll have to wait and see what happens. The animated series, again rumors abound, one was that Mainframe now had the rights. When I contacted Mainframe, they said it was just that, a rumor, too bad. The only good news to report come freom Harris Rotman, it seems that in a fight in the Microverse recently, Psycho-Man used Insectivorids as minions. Sorry I can't remember the full report, or even which comic. I have that info somewhere. Thanks again to Harris for keeping in touch with Shon Bury (aborted Microcomic writer) and getting a final and complete confirmation of the demise of the new comic. Still born at best.

Not all Micronauts news is bad, the toys that started it all, MicroMan, are in full swing back in Japan. In addition to brand new MicroMan figures, beautiful looking figures on the whole, they are reproducing some of the classics.

The best thing going on for me now is this. Along with a new friend, Ward Schultz, I am producing new magno style figures of Ette, Prince, and others. If you'd like to check out the web site for our little company WWIII feel free.

BLACK FALCON
Won't Fly 12/2/98

The long awaited Black Falcon Micronaut toy is now no longer likely to happen. Men In Black are starting to issue refund checks.

What follows is a statement from Men In Black:

Dear Faithful Micro-Fans,

It is with a sad heart that we must inform you that the long awaited Black Falcon will not be produced. All of our effort has unfortunately not paid off as we thought it would. There were many hurdles to over come in producing this toy, the worst of which was financing. After securing a financial backer and getting DSI to produce the toy we thought everything would be smooth sailing. Regrettably, it was not. We placed an ultimatum on everyone involved to have a conclusion by December 1st at 6pm EST, and it has come back negative. The EXACT details will be released in a full story of The Black Falcon from day one until today, so you can see what happened for yourself. We will start refunding all orders immediately. You should have them sometime in December with our deepest apologies. We here at the Men In Black appreciate all of the patience many of you have had with this whole process and hope that you continue to support us in the future. To those of you who will hate us for this we can only apologize.

Sincerly,
Dennis L Barger
Owner, Men In Black Collectables

I will have a full story of the account of Black Falcon in an upcoming issue of Micropola Magazine. The article will outline the toy from start to, GULP, finish. It may also include unused Black Falcon Art.

Phantom Menace
T-Shirts 12/2/98

Around the country and around the world people will be standing in line to see the new Star Wars movie, Episode 1: The Phantom Menace. Many will be starting the lines early, very early, like a month in some cases. Those people will need to be clothed. What better way than to have a unifying t-shirt for all to wear. The Countdown to Star Wars site, in an effort to show this unity, will be issue these t-shirts. I am going to be the designer. I don't know who the printer is but one has already volunteered for the job. Special thanks to Felix for pointing out this Star Wars site or I would never have become involved.

Michael Golden
Micronauts Art 12/2/98

This tip was from Harris Rotman as well:
According to the Comic Book Continuum Michael Golden has a portfolio of unpublished work coming out. Rumored to be in the portfolio are unpublished Micronauts pics. The portfolio is due out in the Spring of '99 and will be published by Image.

Micronauts Comic Canned 12/2/98

We have waited a long time to see our little buddies in print, looks like we will have to wait longer at best. Micronauts has been officially canned. Here is a statement from Chris Claremont he sent to Micronaut Fan Harris Rotman:

Dear Mr. Rotman:

Thank you very much for writing to Marvel with your concerns. It is always good to hear what our readers have to say, whether those comments are positive or negative. I am sorry to learn that you are disappointed with Marvel at this time, and I would like to address your concerns specifically so that you can understand the reasons behind our decisions. The Micronauts are a licensed property, and the series was contingent upon a comprehensive network of legal and financial arrangements, which made its launch a far more complicated endeavor than what is normally required for a concept wholly owned by Marvel. Given the state of the market at this point in time, the concern here was that the series was not viable. Our goal is to change that situation for the better. During this process of transition, we count on the support of readers such as yourself.

I know that the resolution of the Micronauts situation comes as a disappointment. It was one to us, as well. I hope that the series we launch in its place, however, will prove to you Marvel's determination to remain in the forefront of the comics industry, both creatively and commercially.

Once again, thank you for your concern and your interst. I hope you will continue to support Marvel, and that our future endeavores will reward your faith in our company.

Cordially, Chris Claremont
387 Park Avenue South
New York, NY 10016

MICRONET Community/
Micronaut Mailing Lists 12/2/98

Well, the MICRONET Communinty has almost 30 members at this point, but the activity is low. I understand many are having problems, the main thing most need to do in order to login is turn on their cookies. That being said, if you'd like to visit the Community without joining, check out this link. It is free to join. Members can post pictures and start their own bulletin boards. There's more, check it out.

Also, for those of you wanting to get the latest info and gossip, join the 2 Micronaut Mailing Lists that are now in progress. Much of the time info is there before anywhere else. I often don't post News here immediately but to the MLs or the Community site first, it's just quicker and easier. To join got to the 2 sites that run them.

MicroTalk (moderated list)

Micropola (unmoderated)

Join both, unless you don't want all the latest gossip on Micronauts that is.

MICRONET
Online Community Started 10/6/98

I have started a little online community. There you will be able to post messages, pictures, events. There is a chat room. Membership is free. All you have to do is sign up and then I approve it. Come on by and join the fun. Just go here and sign up.

MicroCon98
This Weekend 9/2/98

That's right, that time of year already. The second annual Micronaut/Microman convetion is Sept. 5th and 6th at the Seagate Centre in Toledo, Ohio. Marty Abrams (former CEO of MEGO) will be there with a "big announcement" about Micronauts. There will also be the convention exclusive toy Black Falcon. The first Micronaut toy in years. Official licensed by Marty himself. Distributed by Men In Black. Box art and toy color scheme by yours truly. I'll be on hand to sign boxes if the toy arrives in time for the convention. Check out MIB's Black Falcon page for more pics and info. In conjunction with MicroCon there will be MEGOcon, a first of it's kind, and TRANSCONIII with tons of Transformers and just plain robots galore.

Micropola Fanzine 9/2/98

Check out Ron Pringle's Micropola website, now in it's own domain. You can pre-order the new Micropola fanzine put together by Ron, Ray Miller, Michael Jaecks, Tom Vigneau, and many others, even I had a little hand in it.
Of course there is Ron's famous Microman database on line there as well. A great starting point for all of you who want to learn more about the Micronauts foundations in Japan.

Microman Lives! 9/2/98

Microman is alive and well. He is receiving a rebirth in Japan. From news gathered by Bryan Wilkinson I can tell you, there is a new Microman manga being published in BonBon magazine starting with the October issue. The new toy line starts as well this year. For a glimpse of some Microman toys, or an idea of the direction they are headed, check out the new Transformers base that is out. It was designed as a Microman toy, 5mm pegs and all. Come to think of it, a lot of TF toys seem to have 5mm peg holes now, hmmm.

Black Falcon Toy Ad 8/6/98

Here's a preview of the ad I did that will appear in Tomart's AFD as well as Lee's AFN at the end of August. I believe it will be on the back cover of both magazines. The pic is a little fuzzy. You'll have to get the mag(s) to read all the text, as well as see the pic in all it's glory. Oh, and I did a Big Jim ad as well.

In a Nutshell 8/6/98
Yes, yes, I know, I am a nut.

Here's the latest all crammed together.

Black Falcon: Box art has been sent to DSI to begin production. I have an ad appearing in Tomart's Action Figure Digest at the end of August (days before the MicroCon98 show). There will also be an ad in Lee's Action Figure News in August. In the July issue there was an ad for the convention that also had Black Falcon art by yours truly. The ad in July was inside the back cover of Tomart's and on the back cover of Lee's. The August ad is completely by me, and it looks ultra slick (IMHO). It to should appear on or inside the back cover of the magazines.

MicroCon98: Toledo Ohio, Sept. 5th and 6th (Labor Day Weekend)
Guests guests guests...
So far many people are showing as guests or have shown interest at being there. Among the names mentioned: Marty Abrams, Shon Bury, Cary Nord, Tim Touhy, celebrity and Micro collector Kadeem Hardison... There is also a great deal more fan support this year. Ruben Torres will again have a large number of items from his collection. A fan mag may well make it's appearence at the show along with a beautiful cities display by yet more fans. As always I look most forward to seeing all of my friends at the convention. Oh, and of course there's the Black Falcon. If you want an idea of what the MicroCon convention t-shirt will look like, check the ads in the July issues of Tomart's and Lee's. I've made a BnW version of the Black Falcon I created for those ads.

Micro Animated series: Well, it seems a done deal. Many many sources are reporting that sci-fi channel will be running the 2 hour premier movie of Micronauts (loosely based on the Mantlo/Golden classic first 12 issues). A full series of half hour episodes to air later. Currently the movie is due on TV at the beginning of the year, with the episodes starting regularly sometime in the fall.

Micronauts comic: Production on the Micronauts comic has continued despite it's not yet being published. Several issues are fully complete with several written and even more plotted. With Marvel being formed into a subsidiary of ToyBiz, it should only be a matter of time before things pick up at Marvel and we get the new comic. Which leads me to...

Micronaut toys: Well, one would assume that ToyBiz will get the deal on the new Micronaut toys. Marvel being a part of their company, I can see no reason why they would want to promote someone else's toy. As well, it's great to make a toy you are in full creative control of. Marty's son is a big whig at Marvel, and he's in charge of some of the negotiations involved in getting out the comic/toys. It seems everything, and everyone, are related in the toy/comic business. So, good news I believe. Though many will dislike the idea of ToyBiz making the new Micronauts, I must point out that some of their latest toys are so MEGO like, they are truly amazing. These new 8" figures belong on a shelf with the old MEGO superhero toys.

MicroCon
Net Exclusive Poster 7/6/98
Here's a MicroCon98 poster I created exclusively for net download. The file just over 100k. Enjoy it. Also, please send me your feedback on the poster as well as the Black Falcon appearence in Tomart's Action figure Digest #54 (page #42).

MicroTV 6/25/98
Check out Comic Book Continuum for more detailed info on the new Micros TV show. Sounds Great!

MicroCon98 Toy Exclusive In
Tomart's Action Figure Digest #54 6/25/98
Tomart's AFD #54 hit the stands a week early in some places. It features an article on MicroCon98. More specifically the "New" Exclusive MicroCon Toy BLACK FALCON. I designed the box art for the toy, I'm really proud of it. So, pick up a copy of AFD #54 and support our 'Nauts. We want to see this ish fly off the shelves.

MicroCon98 6/18/98
Finally I can give you info, well some info.

To get the real scoop check out Tomart's July issue. Due out on the first.
Also check it out for some Willy Jones MicroCon/Toy art.

TRANSCON III

The Third Annual Men In Black Transforming Robot Convention
The convention will be held Sept 5th and 6th, 1998

Labor Day Weekend
Toledo, Ohio ("The Heart of it All")
At the Beautiful SeaGate Centre, Down Town Toledo
The Show will be held in conjunction with:

The Second Annual Micronaut Collectors Show:
MICROCON 98

AND

The First and Only MEGO Toy Collectors Show: MEGO-CON

Pay for one show get all three

Admission: $10 per day/$15 weekend pass
Children under 12: Half Price
Pre-Registration packs available
Dealers Tables Still Available

See July's Tomart's Action Figure Digest For Exclusive Toy Information

Toy Dealers of your favorite Transforming Robot Toys
Cool Concept T-Shirts
Surprise Guests
Great Contests (Info available July 1st)

And Keeping it all in the Midwest

For Complete Information send your SNAIL MAIL address to:

MIB141@aol.com

or

Men In Black
812 Congress Ave
Ypsilanti MI 48197

For group discounts, credit card registration and dealer inquiries call

734-483-8697

See You In Toledo
Men In Black

MICROVERSE
Animated Preview
Online 4/20/98

This big bit of information was pointed out to me today (by Randy Tischler). A bit of a preview of the new Micronauts Animated series. I'm sure this gives us a glimpse into the new toys as well since, they will surely be attached to the new series.

MicroKnight

Comeback 4/13/98

Trying to latch onto the latest toy revival, MicroKnight was seen posing for this picture. Is there no shame in this comeback craze?

Micronauts
in AF #11 4/9/98

Alpha Flight #11 is out this week and features the conclusion of the 2 part Micronauts story. Again, the word Micronauts is not used at all in the story. Instead Microverse is somehow substituted. One can see where some things in the story were written directly for Acroyear but, had to be manipulated to fit the story without him.
The story is good, darn good. There's even a fantastic homage to the toys in which Baron Zebek (should have been Karza?) is defeated.
The art however looks rushed in many places. Perhaps this is due to recreating some of it after the removal of Acroyear. Perhaps the artist(s) was simply not a Micros fan. Zebek looks great throughout the book, as does the Endeavor, however Bug just doesn't cut it through most of the book. Some of the line art looks as though it were scanned rather low res before coloring. Perhaps those panels were enlarged to make up for editing. It's just sad sometimes when the lines look pixilated. Zebek however, looks like he's straight from Aegypta, fantastic headdress. So, a mixed review, I guess. I still recommend it as a must for all Microphiles

Micronauts Explodes 4/6/98

Last week saw an explosion of Micronauts news and info.
Marvel's Vision #30 (the last issue of Vision) has a preview of the new comic that includes some rough color sketches.
Toymax has been announced by AFD as the company putting out the new Micronaut toys.
Lastly, the rumors of a Micronauts TV show seem to be true with a scheduled 2 hour intro movie and 22 half hour episodes as reported by Z Entertainment.
All that and the comic is a couple steps closer to being published as well.
MICRONAUTS in '98

New Micronauts
Comic Preview 3/31/98

You've waited a long time for a new Micronauts comic. You may have to wait a lttle longer. But, so we don't all die of curiosity, here's a little sneak preview of the new comic by Marvel. This is courtesy of new Micronauts scribe Shon C. Bury. Shon sent me a copy of Cary Nord's (new Micronauts artist) pencils. I cleaned them up a little bit, since they havent been inked, added the word balloons and the sound effects and presto. Here you have two pages of the as yet unreleased Marvel Micronauts. Click here. Then come back and press here.

Wizard Knows
Micronauts 3/27/98

Very frequently, Wizards monthly calendar of comic history depicts the Micronauts. This month I couldn't help but share their (Brian Douglas Ahern & Dave Elyea) Micronauts reference. Even they didn't draw Acroyear though.

'Nauts "Green Lighted" 3/23/98

Micronauts editor Tim Touhy gave the go ahead for the completion of the next story arc in the yet unpublished Micronauts comic. Marvel is going ahead with production and fully intends to release the comic so, just wait a little longer folks. I'll have a small preview of issue 1 of the new comic here in the News section shortly.

MicroCon98 3/23/98

MicroCon98 is scheduled. The convention will be in Toledo on September 5th and 6th. MIB are again hosting and yours truly will be doing the artwork for the convention. More details as they are available of course. This years promises to be bigger and better.

'Nauts in
Alpha Flight #10 3/23/98

SCB's

VEGAS-MONEY-BABY-LONGE!3/23/98

'Nauts on Hold 3/10/98

Things have not been ironed out between Marty Abrams and Marvel Comics and Micronauts has been pulled from release indefinitely. Marvel however, wants your input. Please write c/o 'Nauts, that is, put 'Nauts in the subject line, so it goes to the right place. State your support for Micronauts, your feelings. We really need your support if we want the best comic ever to see light of day again. We've come all this way. I've been on the net with this site for almost 2 years. If 'Nauts had come out this summer it would have marked the 2 year anniversary of this site. We've written a lot of letters. You people have written me a lot of letters these past 2 years. Not a week goes by where I don't receive a letter being so thankful that they were able to relive this great old friend. Let's help give some new people a chance to find out how great a book it was, and could be. All your letters will go directly to Marvel. So, start writing, start fighting.

Shon C Bury
Homepage 3/3/98

Shon C Bury, writer of the new Micronauts comic, is starting his own web site. I've had the privilege to check out the new site ahead of time and, you Shon C Bury fans will have a blast. On the site you will be able to send messages directly to Shon. There is a list of his comic history. There's a links page with a link to yours truly as well as many other fascinating sites. There's lots more to check out though and I don't want to spoil the fun. Shon, and his awesome webmaster Harri, want your input as to how to improve the site. As soon as the site goes public you'll find the URL here. In the meantime, I'll give you all a special treat. Here's the link to another of Harri's sites, The BlackOps Message board. It's through Harri's BOps board that I was originally able to get in touch with Shon. Just leave a message on the board. Shon always responds.

Micronauts Comic
DELAYED 2/23/98

Micronauts Asst Editor Julio Sato contacted me last Friday with some disappointing yet encouraging news. "Micronauts has been pushed back due to rights issues. But things are proceeding smoothly and Cary Nord has just finished pencilling the first issue and it looks great. But I wanted to say be patient, it's hopefully just a matter of time."
Newsrama thinks the book will be out in June or July. For the final word I went to Micronauts writer Shon C Bury. "Everyone relax. The date's only been moved back to June, couple months. Marvel has total faith that this project will see print. If they didn't I wouldn't be starting issue #4." So there you have it, a slight delay as things get ironed out by Abrams/Gentile. As a bit of speculation on my part, it may have to do with the impending release of new Micronauts toys. Hopefully this year as well. Perhaps we will know more about new toys at this years MicroCon98. By that time the comic should at least be out.

Micronaut Toys
in Collecting Toys 2/12/98

This is from Rob Merritt
The March 10th issue of Collecting Toys will have a feature on the Micronauts.

For those of you who are regular visitors to Rob's page, especially his Might and Magic stuff, please be patient, Rob's computer is a bit flaky. He promises to have a new computer and regular updates soon.

Big Things
In Small Packages 2/12/98

This is from CSN

April Heralds the relaunch of Marvel's Micronauts, revamped for the 90's by writer Shon C. Bury and penciller Cary Nord. "The original cast is back-most of 'em-just in time to defend the Microverse from a threat more ominous than Baron Karza!" Bury told CSNsider. "Heck, Baron Karza's sided with the good guys on this one!" Bury promises "to stay true to the original Mantlo/Golden run as possible while creating a large landing pad for new readers to jump on. If you like your space opera dramatic and action-packed, pick up Micronauts!"...

Writing Binge 2/3/98

Shon C Bury reports he went on a three day writing binge for the new Micronauts comic. He risked alienating his family but he's proud of the work he did. Shon finished writing a double sized finish to the first story arc. Shon also states that Cary Nord is hot on a drawing streak. Things are moving ahead on the new book.

Many of you may have noticed the absence of Micronauts from Previews as well as Mania's April shipping list. Shon C Bury is at a loss to explain this but says he's still being told Apil as the shipping date. If there's a change I'll let you know as soon as possible.

Micronauts
in CSN #552 1/23/98

This is from CSNsider:

"... Dan Norton and Sean Ruffner both comment that my (Shon C Bury) script is of "epic proportion" and contains the largest space battle ever told in comics." So will the Micronauts' adventures cross over into the mainstream Marvelverse, or will they remain separate? "I just got asked to think up a way to bring a Marvel character to the Microverse for the intent of whacking him?this will be this summers annual. I have no intention of crossing over Micronauts with the regular Marvel universe until after issue twelve, somewhere in the ongoing story. Considering I'm plotted out until issue nine or ten?and I gotta come up with something cool for eleven and twelve, I don't have the space. Besides the crossing over always seemed contrived to me. Fun, but contrived." ...

Alpha Flight #11 1/19/98

This is from Mania's list of April Releases:

(Creators) Steven T. Seagle and Roger Cruz
Alpha Flight teams with Marvel's most popular micro-sized guest stars in a race to save two worlds! Unwitting prisoners in the Microverse, the squad finds itself the honored guests of Baron Zebek of the Jungle Zone. But is the Eden the Baron presides over actually an enormous threat to Canada?

Captain Universe

from ToyBiz 1/13/98

For you Micronaut completests I have a new item for you to buy. While at FAO SCHWARTZ I spotted this Spidey as Captain Universe figure. It comes from a time when Spidey donned the costume and powers of our favorite Micros spin-off character, Captain Universe. I assume this is an FAO Schwartz exclusive figure, I've seen it nowhere else. It has decent articulation for a ToyBiz figure. The other Spidey that came with it has better shoulder articulation. The "Cosmic Spiderman" has ankle articulation. It's is a really nice rendition of Captain Universe's costume. Now, they just need to make a Captain Universe figure.

Another Captain Universe item of interest is the OverPower card. This card comes from the "Magic type" card game based on the Marvel characters. I understand the Captain Universe card is common. I'll try to get one for all to look at.

This Sad News from Excite 1/9/98

Voice of Betty Boop Dies

Mae Questel, a Broadway and film actress who was best known as the voice of the cartoon character Betty Boop, has died at the age of 89. Questel, whose career stretched back to vaudeville and included a starring role in the Woody Allen segment of ``New York Stories,'' died Sunday at her Manhattan home, her agent Michael Thomas said. She had been ailing for a long time and suffered from Alzheimer's disease. Questel provided the voice of the sexy cartoon character Betty Boop throughout the 1930s in more than 150 animated shorts. She also recorded ``On the Good Ship Lollipop'' in the Boop voice, which sold over 2 million copies.

I'm a big Betty Boop fan, she'll be missed.

More Micronaut News
from Newsrama 1/5/98

CAUSE WE DIG & RESPECT SHAMELESS SELF-PROMOTION

SHON C. BURY, writer of the upcoming MICRONAUTS relaunch for Marvel (April), continues to keep the CBI-N updated on his progress. "The 1st script is complete and penciler Cary Nord is beginning the pages," said Bury. "My editor Tim Touhy left this message on my voice mail: 'Shon...Micronauts ROCKS!', and then went on to tell me that new coordinating editor Chris Claremont spent only 5 minutes with Touhy on Micronauts, staying long enough to say only, 'These bad guys Shon's come up with are too good for the Micronauts!' All the principals involved are really excited and I'm already receiving email from dedicated Micronaut fans. Best buddies Dan Norton and Sean Ruffner both comment that my script is of 'epic proportion' and contains the largest space battle ever told in comics."

You go boy...

An Interview With
Shon C. Bury
(New Micronauts Writer) 12/29/97
Here is my interview with Shon C. Bury. It's a little too big to put on the News page so just click to read it. The interview is great and full of info. No real spoilers, just enough info to whet your appetite. Read on.

MicroCon9812/23/97

MicroCon98 will occur and yours truly will be doing this years poster as well. Not all the details are worked out yet but this years MicroCon is sure to be bigger and better. Check out MIB's homepage to get on the MicroCon98 mailing list. Be sure to tell them Willy sent ya. I'm bursting with ideas for the new poster, can't wait.

Alpha Flight #10
The Prometheus Pit 12/11/97

From Another Universe

On an all-out collision course with General Clarke and Department H, Alpha Flight is diverted by an unexpected ally within Canada's most corrupt government body. Though her assistance comes at a high personal price, will help spell salvation or disaster as Alpha finds itself flung into the Prometheus Pit!

Micronaut Appearence
in Alpha Flight
Moved Back 12/11/97
This months Alpha Flight (#7) confirms the appearence of the Micronauts in issues 10 and 11. The info is given in their letter column but does not mention the Micronauts by name. The scheduled appearence of the Micros in issue 8 seems to have been moved back to make way for an X-Men/Alpha Flight X-Over.

Shon C. Bury
Wrote Me Back 12/11/97

I wrote to Shon C. Bury, the writer of the new Micronauts book.
Although he didn't give out any details (who can blame him) he did say " I'll try to make the revival worthwhile for you." I'm sure he will. He seems to reallly care what the public wants, what the fans want.

Bad News At Hasbro 12/10/97
This info from Mania in their Daily Buzz

Hasbro Lays Off Workers

Reuters reports that Hasbro Inc., maker of toys based on Batman and the Star Wars trilogy, will cut 2,500 jobs, or 21 percent of its work force, and stop making some toys in an effort to boost profit growth. The announcement of the cuts comes 16 days before Christmas, and are the second round of reductions by the toy maker in two months. The company will also buy back $500 million of its shares in a bid to support the stock price.

Analysts said the restructuring will help Hasbro reduce costs and weather what could be a difficult 1998.

Sales of Hasbro products are expected to fall in 1998. However, the release of a new Star Wars film in spring 1999 should boost sales and profits. For now, though, cost cutting is key.

Hasbro, based in Pawtucket, RI, said 70 percent of the job cuts would be from its manufacturing operations.

Let's hope it's not going to affect the Micronauts revival. I'm sure we'll all buy plenty of new Micronauts when they arrive.

Wizard's ToyFare

asks the Big Question 12/4/97

The following is from the Wizard E-Mailer

TOYFARE POLL Hello, boys and girls! Your good pals at ToyFare have another one of our world-famous polls to posit to our much-beloved America Online community! We've been thinking a lot about the toy lines that have been making a comeback lately -- stuff like G.I. Joe, Voltron, Battlestar Galactica, etc. -- and we were musing on the big toy lines from the 1970s and '80s. Boy, do we miss 'em! So we ask you, our electronic elite:
WHICH TOY LINE WOULD YOU MOST LIKE TO SEE RE-LAUNCHED FOR 1998?

a) Micronauts

b) Masters of the Universe

c) Thundercats

d) M.A.S.K.

e) Go-Bots

f) World's Greatest Super Heroes! (Mego)

g) Other (be specific!)

E-mail your responses by MONDAY, DECEMBER 22 to ToyPoll@aol.com, NOT WizPoll or WizSpecial. Thanks for all your help!

Well, the choice is obvious. Cast your vote and make us heard.

Red Falcon Clones
Spotted Again PT II 12/4/97

Having now opened one of the clones I have some more detailed info on them. Unlike the metallic clones these clones do have firing fists. The plastic is a little lower quality but the Magnets are great. A spring was missing from one of the launchers on the motorcycle from the fig I opened. They are lightweight, aside from the magnet encasing torso. The armor comes off very easily. My metallic clones' armor did not remove so easily. I'm told (by Ruben Torres) that the flat finish clones from last year did have firing fists. The motorcycle with the new clones is great. The whole bike just snaps to the magnets of the torso, concealing the torso in the center. The playability of this new clone may not be quite as great as the previous clone though. The bike looks great but it's connections are all magnetic. There are no pegs to snap parts of the bikes in other places. The balls on the different bike parts do allow some variation, but not nearly as much as the previous clones. Good toy, could have been better. There seems to be no set color scheme for the new clones. Just because a figure is color (A) does not mean it uses head (A) it may use (B), (C), or (D). This could create and major dilemma for some collectors. Although I found about 20 of them at a local Big Lots, they did not have a yellow figure, mostly black ones. Good hunting, and good luck collectors. At $5 ($4.99) a piece they should fly off the shelves.

Red Falcon Clones
Spotted Again 12/1/97

Just in time for Christmas I found new Red Falcon Clones at Big Lots. They are a little different than the last ones. They don't have the bird to merge with but a motorcycle instead. There also is not an actual Red Falcon headed one. They still have the bodies that look more like the ZAP Power Force figures. There are four different colors, red, blue, black, and yellow. $4.99 a piece and in a slightly larger box than the last ones but the box is essentially the same scheme as last time. Here's a peek.

CSN and Mania Give Us the News
We've Been Waiting For 11/25/97

SHON C. BURY gives the guys of CSN a bit more insider info on his upcoming MICRONAUTS revival at Marvel (with Cary Nord on pencils, and Michael Golden consulting), as reported to you last week here at Newsarama. "Micronauts is a go," Bury told CSN. "I have my deadlines and Micronauts #1 will be out in March or April, probably April. We aren't starting from scratch, but we are kinda ignoring the
New Voyages stuff. We're taking the book back to basics. It's all high-action space drama! Rann, Mari, Bug, Huntarr and Acroyear all return for the first issue. Fyreflyte will return by the end of the first arc. Microtron and Biotron will be back for the second or third arc. Karza is involved in a most unexpected way. Let's just say he and his dog soldiers are the least of the Micronauts' worries."

This may be why there is no mention of Micronauts in the previews for Alpha Flight #s 8 & 9 but we'll know in a couple of months. Thanks to Rob Merritt for pointing out this bit 'o' news I missed.

Micronaut Comic
One Step Closer 11/13/97

In a Newsarama Daily article by Michael Doran entitled
TO BE, OR 'NAUT TO BE
there was this to say:

As rumored elsewhere recently, MARVEL is proceeding with plans to relaunch the MICRONAUTS into a new ongoing series, providing they can secure the rights to the entire cast of Micronauts characters. Marvel, who owns only the characters Ran, Mari, Bug, and Huntar, are currently negotiating a licensing deal with the toy company the MEGO CORP., for the rights to the entire Micronauts cast. This includes characters like Acroyear, who originally appeared as a line of toys/action figures in the 1970's. According to Marvel, they series will NOT go ahead unless they can use ALL the characters.

Marvel does expect this matter to be worked out however, and have gone so far as naming SHON C. BURY (DV8 vs BLACK OPS) as writer of the title. Penciler CARY NORD (DAREDEVIL) and inker Scott Koblish are also tentatively set to provide the art. Tim Tuoy will edit, and Marvel's new Senior Art Director MICHAEL GOLDEN (an old hand at the Micronauts thing) will act as consultant for the series.

When asked what his plans were for the title, Bury would only tell the CBI-N one thing. "Much, if not all, of the MICRONAUTS: NEW VOYAGES storyline will be ignored," said Bury.

Look for updates on this story as they become available.

For those of you who have read my previous news or my account of MicroCon'97, you should already be aware that Marty Abrams verbally agreed to let Seagle use Acroyear as well as all the other Micronauts in Alpha Flight. With the probable relaunch of the Micronaut toys next year it only seems fitting he should agree to a use of the toys in a new comic. While looking over my on-line tribute comic Seagle said "That's it, that's what I want, Acroyear..." Apparently that's what everyone wants. I know I do.

Ken Kelly's Alien Art 11/13/97

The next Art of Ken Kelly book will have at least 7 of the 8 Micronaut Alien paintings in it. Friedlander Publications (FPG) is publishing it and they poses 7 of the 8 paintings. The only one they don't have is Antron which is said to be owned by Marty Abrams himself. Gordon Smuder, who provided me with this great info, was contacted by FPG and was able to interview Mr. Mike Friedlander about the paintings and his association with Ken Kelly. Smuder's interview will be published in an upcoming issue of My Friend the Micronaut. FPG borrowed all the alien cards as well as the Terraphant and Hornetroid boxes from Gordon for inclusion. They would like to show how the artwork actually appeared on the finished product. Though no print date has been set it looks like something great to look forward to. 1998 could be the year of the Micronaut.

MicroCon97 in
Action Figure News
and Toy Review 11/06/97

Another 2 page article on MicroCon97 is out. Again titled TransCon2 the article in issue #61 of AFN was highly positive. Although they failed to print my poster (unlike AFD, see below) I really thought it was a good article. There's a picture of a very small portion of Ruben's collection. Among the pieces in Ruben's collection are Micros and Henshin Cyborg stuff as well as the Microman Manga issues. Those articles were loaned by various members of the Gang of Five. (See Ron Pringle's They Were Extendable page if you don't know who we are.) I can't remember what belonged to who so I won't try to say who owned what. I can say that what is shown is just a very small portion of what was there. We really need to make a convetion next year a major reality.

Marvel is Truly Golden 11/04/97

Mania magazine has this wonderful article online in their daily buzz:

MARVEL announced last week that it has appointed MICHAEL GOLDEN Senior Art Director of the Marvel Comics Group. Golden, an industry veteran with over 20 years experience in comics, was instrumental in the creation and development of the MICRONAUTS and THE NAM as Marvel freelancer in the 70's and 80's. He also co-created the popular X- heroine ROGUE.

Golden will oversee all aspects of art and production for Marvel's entire publishing line. He will also train and supervise creative personnel in all phases of the storytelling process.

In announcing Golden's appointment, Marvel EIC Harras commented, "Michael is one of the most respected artists in the business. His proven track record as a creative and innovative leader in youth- oriented, multi-media entertainment will reinforce Marvel's long- standing position as the world's #1 comic book publisher. We are thrilled to have him on board."

Golden added, "In Marvel's role as the industry leader, we have the resources to open new doors. I am looking forward to walking through these doors, breaking new ground, energizing existing venues and expanding our sales potential to a broader market."

I never wanted to work for Marvel more than I do now. Golden is the best.

New Micronauts
Comic in '88? 10/31/97

Marvel's VISION magazine reports a proposal for a new Micronauts comic in it's letter column in issue #25. Wizard Magazine also reports new Micronauts comic proposals in the works in this month's issue #76. Wizard actually reports 2 proposals by two different creative teams. Wizard also refers to it as MICROVERSE. I wished they'd ask me for some input. I have quite a few good ideas on the subject.

Acroyear in
Alpha Flight #5 10/31/97

It's not our big buddy Acroyear but it's an Acroyear. If you want to see it in full color with word balloons pick up Alpha Flight #5. As a side note to this many of you have noticed that there is no mention of Micronauts in the preview of issue #8 of Alpha Flight. I wouldn't worry too much about this. They may well not show up till the end of the issue or in fact not until a later issue at this point. All the clues point to the reappearance of the Micronauts soon so hang on.

Smuder Moonlights 10/31/97

For those of you who wondered where Gordon Smuder and his wife disappeared to during MicroCon97 on Saturday check this out. The moonlighting Legioners were at ComicCon testing out their flight rings. Gordon, for those of you who don't recall, made those beautiful Micronaut props that were displayed at the con with Ruben's collection. This picture came from Wizard issue #76. Way to go Cosmic Boy.

AFD #46 10/31/97

Action figure Digest has some great stuff in issue #46. No, they didn't print my MicroCon97 poster again. They have a whole section of prototype toys that never made it to market. Among the toys are some great Bucky O'Hare pictures. The Righteous Indignation looks fantastic, it even fires missiles. That was one I would have had to have. They also have this prototype of Jenny, another figure that would have been just great. Check out AFD #46 for lots more Bucky prototypes.

Micronauts in

Comic Shop News 10/21/97

This week CSN reported the possible comeback of the Micronauts comic at Marvel. I spoke with CSN to confirm that I was not generating my own news. CSN said they had it (the info) from an independent source at Marvel. They did say however that this years MicroCon helped spark the idea. GO MARVEL!!! MICRONAUTS IN '88!!!
For those of you who haven't (and even if you have) write Marvel and tell them you support your 'nauts.

Michael Golden
Limited Edition Print 9/29/97

Wildstorm is releasing a limited edition print of Golden's Marvel Universe poster. This poster was originally released back in '80 and is among my most treasured pieces. This reprint is recolored and goes for $150. A rather steep price but a very nice pic. If I didn't have the first release from 17 years ago I'd have to have this one. Look smack dab in the center of the poster for Micronauts spin-off super-hero Captain Universe.

Alpha Flight #4 9/29/97

Alpha Flight #4 sees the return of the Prometheus Pit. Issue #8 should see the return of the Micronauts themselves.

Kadeem Hardison
on TV Again 9/12/97

Celebrity and Micronaut enthusiast Kadeem Hardison is back of TV in a new series on FOX. The Show is called Between Brothers and has Kadeem as the eldest of four brothers trying to get along in Chicago.

Spy Magicians
and Biosuits 9/2/97

The Spy Magicians are indeed next on the list for Romando. The Biosuits are as well. as seen in this ad from Hobby Japan.

Happy 2nd Anniversary to
The Micronauts Homepage 8/15/97

Erik's Micronauts Homepage was the first and is still the definitive Micronauts web site. Erik was the Micronaut pioneer of the net, forging new cyberspace for all of us to tread. Erik's site is very complete, from toys to a synopsis of each comic issue. Erik has it all including links to many sites including this one. If you haven't been there do yourself a favor and check it out. Drop Erik a line and say thanks.
Thanks Erik!

MICRONET featured in The Industry Insider on The Comics Page 8/11/97

Micronet the comic is being featured as an example of the "Miller Technique" of comic book coloring in the August issue of The Comics Page in the Industry Insider column. The Industry Insider is an insightful column about the comic book industry. Please drop by and check it out, especially if you are interested in coloring techniques.

MicroCon97 in AFD #43 8/6/97

To start off our new news format let's take a look at Action Figure Digest #43. For those of you who haven't seen it, run out now and buy it. Inside you will find a two page article titled TransCon2. Now, while there was a Transformers convention going on simultaneously with MicroCon97, it (the article) should have been called MicroCon97 after all we were the news. There are some great pictures in the article. Among them are Marty Abrams' gold Jeeg (referred to in the article as a Karza with a different head), some of Ruben Torres' vast collection, dealers pics and my crowning achievement, my poster. Although the picture of my poster was slightly cropped it was an excellent picture of the poster. My hat is off to the photographer because I stuck the poster way up high above Ruben's collection. He must have stood on a chair to take the pic. The article was short but positive, at least in respect to MicroCon97. Although I don't remember Marty Abrams mentioning anything about Micronauts at next years Toy Fair, the article is correct in that Abrams clearly demonstrated the desire to redo Micronauts one way or another. Sadly there was no mention of Steven Seagle being at the con. Nor was there any mention of Abrams' go ahead to Seagle to use ALL Micronauts in his upcoming Alpha Flight story. Don't forget to get Alpha Flight everyone. Micronauts will appear there soon (#8). Support our Micronauts.