The beloved novel “Good Omens” by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman is not only celebrated on television but is now set to become a record-breaking graphic novel thanks to artist Colleen Doran. However, unlike other adaptations where on-screen characters influence their comic book counterparts, Doran has intentionally avoided watching the TV series to maintain the distinctiveness of her graphic novel adaptation.
The project, launched on Kickstarter, quickly gained popularity, setting a new record for being the fastest-funded comic adaptation on the crowdfunding platform. Within just ten minutes, it exceeded its initial goal of £25,000 ($31,843), eventually raising nearly £2.5 million ($3.1 million) by the end of its funding period.
Doran, in an interview with CBR, explained her approach to adapting “Good Omens” and her decision not to watch the TV series:
“There is absolutely no way I can do anything with the graphic novel versions that competes with the amazing David Tennant and Michael Sheen. I’m not even trying. But when I knew I was getting this project, I immediately stopped watching the show to make sure I cleared as much of it from my head as possible and stuck to only what was written on the page. It was a task, let me say because I’d watched that show dozens of times. When I was feeling down, I just played it on a loop.”
The “Good Omens” graphic novel project not only pays tribute to Pratchett and Gaiman’s original work but also continues Pratchett’s legacy. Pratchett, who passed away in 2015, had stipulated that any unfinished writings should be destroyed. However, new adaptations and previously unpublished writings have kept his work alive.
The television adaptation of “Good Omens” premiered in 2019 and featured standout performances by David Tennant, Michael Sheen, and a talented supporting cast. While season one covered the story from the novel, season two introduced new elements and storylines discussed by Pratchett and Gaiman. Although more seasons are possible, fans can anticipate a fresh take on the story when the graphic novel is released in July 2024.
