Hello Kitty to Star in New Comic Book Series in 2026

The iconic Sanrio character will embark on a global adventure in a new collaboration between Sanrio and IDW Publishing.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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Hello Kitty, the beloved Sanrio character, is set to star in a new comic book series launching in 2026. The series, titled "Hello Kitty: Hello World", will be written by Mariko Tamaki and drawn by Cody Lemieux. The announcement comes as Sanrio's lead Hello Kitty designer, Yuko Yamaguchi, steps down from her position, with Aya taking over the role. The new comic book series will coincide with the release of a Hello Kitty feature film from New Line Cinema and Warner Bros. Entertainment, scheduled for 2028.

Why it matters

Hello Kitty has been a global icon for over 50 years, with a massive merchandising empire and numerous appearances across various media. The new comic book series and upcoming film represent a significant expansion of the Hello Kitty brand, signaling the character's continued popularity and the potential for new creative directions in the years to come.

The details

The new Hello Kitty comic book series, "Hello Kitty: Hello World", will debut on July 22nd and feature the lovable character and her friends embarking on a global adventure, solving riddles and meeting new friends along the way. The series is a collaboration between Sanrio and American comic publisher IDW Publishing, with further collaborations planned for 2027. This announcement comes as Sanrio's lead Hello Kitty designer, Yuko Yamaguchi, steps down from her position, with Aya taking over the role.

  • Hello Kitty: Hello World will debut on July 22, 2026.
  • The Hello Kitty feature film from New Line Cinema and Warner Bros. Entertainment is scheduled to premiere in July 2028.

The players

Yuko Shimizu

The artist who designed the original Hello Kitty character in 1974 for Sanrio.

Yuko Yamaguchi

The lead designer for Hello Kitty since 1980, who is now stepping down from her position.

Aya

The new lead designer for Hello Kitty, taking over the role from Yuko Yamaguchi.

Mariko Tamaki

The writer of the new Hello Kitty: Hello World comic book series.

Cody Lemieux

The artist who will be drawing the new Hello Kitty: Hello World comic book series.

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What’s next

The new Hello Kitty: Hello World comic book series will debut on July 22, 2026, coinciding with San Diego Comic Con. Another major Hello Kitty production, a feature film from New Line Cinema and Warner Bros. Entertainment, is scheduled to premiere in July 2028.

The takeaway

The upcoming Hello Kitty comic book series and feature film represent a significant expansion of the iconic Sanrio character's presence across various media, signaling the continued popularity and growth of the Hello Kitty brand over 50 years after its initial debut.