Godzilla Fights LA Comic Con Wildfires

Godzilla is infamous for laying waste to Tokyo, but what if the iconic monster set its sights on the United States? This is the central concept of Godzilla vs. America, a new line of standalone specials from IDW Publishing and Toho.

Following its explosive debut with Godzilla vs. Chicago #1, the series continues its destructive path with April's Godzilla vs. Los Angeles #1. This issue collects four tales of Godzilla's assault on Hollywood. The creative lineup features Gabriel Hardman (Green Lantern: Earth One, Batman: The Brave and the Bold), J. Gonzo (Image Comics’ La Mano del Destino, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles), Dave Baker (Mary Tyler Moorehawk, TMNT: Black, White & Green), and Nicole Goux (Shadow of the Batgirl).

Naturally, some might view the timing of Godzilla vs. Los Angeles #1 as insensitive, considering the city and surrounding areas are currently grappling with the aftermath of severe wildfires. Although this project was in development for nearly a year, IDW acknowledges the unfortunate coincidence. In response, the publisher has announced that all profits from Godzilla vs. Los Angeles will be donated to the Book Industry Charitable Foundation, providing support to bookstores and comic shops damaged by the fires.

IDW shared the following letter with retailers and readers:

To our retail partners and fans,

We hope this message finds you safe and well. IDW Publishing holds a deep commitment to its community of creators, readers, and retailers. As part of this community, we recognize that sensitivity and support are essential, particularly in difficult times.

We are writing to address the forthcoming release of Godzilla vs. Los Angeles, the next chapter in our "Godzilla vs. America" series. Planned since last July, this 40-page anthology showcases the work of several beloved Los Angeles-based writers and artists and is set for release in April 2025.

We are aware of the unfortunate parallel between our comic's theme and the recent devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. The "Godzilla" series has frequently served as a metaphor for the consequences of unprecedented disasters, whether human-made or natural. Our intention is not to profit from these recent events, but to continue exploring themes that reflect and resonate with the human experience.

To assist our community during this challenging period, we have chosen to donate all proceeds from Godzilla vs. Los Angeles sales to the Book Industry Charitable Foundation (Binc). This donation will provide direct aid to bookstores and comic shops impacted by the fires, supporting their recovery and rebuilding efforts.

We value your support as retailers and partners in bringing stories to life, even when fiction unintentionally echoes reality. Through this initiative, we hope to offer some relief to those affected by the events in Los Angeles.

Thank you for your understanding and continued readership. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions or for further discussion.

"As a native of Los Angeles, I'm thrilled to contribute to a comic that showcases some of the city's most skilled cartoonists," associate editor Nicolas Niño tells IGN. "We have Godzilla battling giant lowrider mechs, rampaging through theme parks, and even a guide to the city's subway system (yes, LA really does have one)! The unifying thread? The people of Los Angeles uniting to confront a force of nature. This year has been tough for the city, and I can think of no better tribute to Los Angeles than pitting it against its greatest challenge: the King of Monsters! Additionally, all earnings from this issue will support the Binc Foundation's wildfire relief efforts following the January blazes."

Godzilla vs Los Angeles #1 is scheduled for release on April 30, 2025, with a final order cutoff date of March 24.

To learn more about upcoming releases in the comic book industry, see what Marvel has planned for 2025 and what to expect from DC in 2025.