Heavy Metal may be the one publisher going full speed ahead during the pandemic slowdown, with their new digital Virus imprint…and now a team up with content producer Diga Studios and Dylan Sprouse.

Entrepreneur Sprouse –  twin brother of Cole “Jughead” Sprouse – has stepped away from his acting past and has long been interested in comics, art and multimedia projects – including brewing mead, according to his bio.

He’s teamed up with DIGA Studios for a new, still untitled comics series. We’ll let the PR tell the rest of the saga:

Sprouse first shared the project with DIGA Studios, and it was immediately apparent that the work was perfectly suited to bring to Heavy Metal Magazine through the studios’ new partnership. Sprouse’s creative style and passion for the gaming and comic book industries were strong factors in the choice. A deeply personal tale, drawn from his profound Viking enthusiasm and Norse Pagan affinity, Sprouse creates an intriguing saga that will fall under the Heavy Metal umbrella.

“I have always been a huge gaming and comic book fan, and this project has provided me with such a creative outlet that has developed into a true passion,” says Sprouse. It is no surprise that the actor and entrepreneur has a background in video game design, poetry, and studio design. “The story is close to my heart, inspired by my past experiences and the bedtime sagas my Scandinavian American grandmother used to read me.”

“I’ve known Dylan for four years and have always been a big fan of his writing,” said Patrick Smith, Lead Alternative Programming Producer for DIGA Studios. “When he shared this deeply personal passion project with me, I immediately knew Heavy Metal would see it as the perfect flagship to kick off our new partnership. The comic book is just the beginning and given all of the rich content, we’re excited with what’s to come.”

Says Matt Medney, CEO of Heavy Metal, “I met Dylan for the first time with Patrick for dinner, and instantly understood Patrick’s excitement about not only his storytelling but about Dylan himself. It’s rare in this world to find someone so passionate and critical all wrapped up in one.  At Heavy Metal it is our mission to seek partnerships with creative individuals who strive to enhance the publication experience. Our brand has the best fans with deep, loyal ties to the genre and we know this project is going to resonate with them.”