A recent release by NECA may not officially be a Jack Kirby action figure, the legendary co-creator of many Marvel superheroes, but it certainly pays homage. Inspired by an artist character named “Kirby” from a 1986 TMNT comic that Donatello encounters, this figure looks surprisingly like the real Jack Kirby.
With approval from both the Kirby estate and TMNT’s own Kevin Eastman, NECA’s figure joins the pantheon of collectibles where it might humorously go toe to toe with existing Stan Lee figures, perhaps over creative royalties.
A Magical Touch from Kirby’s Legacy
The original comic allowed its Kirby to bring creations to life using a magic pencil. True to form, this action figure comes with such a pencil, along with a sketchbook, a variety of hands, a comic-derived blaster, and a creature in Kirby’s distinctive art style. Initially, such items would be rare collectibles, but fans take note: this action figure is available for a limited time at Target during their Haul-a-thon event, with wider distribution to follow. The packaging itself features exclusive art by Kevin Eastman.
Jack Kirby, who passed away at 76 in 1994, was a seminal figure in comics, first at DC post-World War II, before his significant contributions at Atlas Comics (later Marvel). His tenure at DC in the 70s gave birth to the New Gods and the notorious villain Darkseid. In a playful twist, the TMNT comic proposed that Kirby “created” the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles comics after an encounter with a real turtle. This action figure brings that notion full circle in a tangible tribute.
The comprehensive gallery below showcases the attention to detail and reverence for Kirby’s influence encapsulated in this action figure:
FAQs About The Jack Kirby Inspired NECA TMNT Action Figure
- Is the NECA action figure an official Jack Kirby figure?
No, it isn’t officially Jack Kirby himself but an artist character from the TMNT series who is heavily inspired by him. - Who needed to approve the production of this figure?
The production required approval from the Kirby estate and Kevin Eastman, the co-creator of TMNT. - What accessories come with the figure?
Accessories include a magic pencil, a sketchbook, multiple hand options, a blaster weapon, and a Kirby-style creature with its weapon. - Where can I purchase this figure?
The figure is available for a limited time at Target during their Haul-a-thon event and will later be distributed to other online retailers. - Did Jack Kirby have a role in creating the TMNT?
No, Kirby did not create the TMNT, but in the playful storyline of the TMNT universe, the character “Kirby” draws the comics after meeting a real turtle.
Conclusion
This NECA action figure represents more than a mere collectible; it is an emblem of Jack Kirby’s indelible mark on the world of comics and pop culture. With such attention to detail and evident appreciation for its inspiration, this action figure is not only a must-have for fans of Kirby’s work but also an excellent piece for those who value the creative spirits behind our most beloved comic characters. Whether you’re a collector, a TMNT enthusiast, or a fan of Jack Kirby’s legacy, this action figure offers a unique combination of art, nostalgia, and homage to the legends of the comic book industry.