To mark Archie’s 85th anniversary, writer Corinna Bechko and artist Kano are reviving Sabrina Spellman’s story and her magical adventures in the all-new Sabrina the Teenage Witch series. Published by Archie Comics and Oni Press, the first issue will be available on October 7.
We spoke with Bechko about putting her own stamp on the beloved character and about exploring Sabrina’s relationships with her aunts, Harvey, and, of course, Salem. She also discussed how Kano’s artwork shapes her writing and why this playful, optimistic story offers a welcome change of pace from her darker horror and science-fiction work.
HGL: Sabrina is such a beloved character, and her story has been told many times. Which elements of her do you consider most essential?
Corinna Bechko: Sabrina is indeed iconic! She’s changed a lot over the years, but I think some things do remain constant. Her love of fun, for example, and a sense of mischief. She’s also a good person who does want to help out her family and friends.
And of course her sense of curiosity. She’s always eager to figure out new ways of doing things and to explore new ways of seeing the world.
HGL: Beyond magic, Sabrina’s family and friends are central to her identity. Which of these relationships do you find most exciting to explore?
Corinna Bechko: I’ve really enjoyed writing her aunts since they have been where she is now, but they did it in what could be considered simpler times. But of course the most complicated part of being a person is other people, so it will become clear that they’ve had their own challenges.
I’ve had a lot of fun with her mortal friends too, especially Sabrina’s maybe/maybe not love interest Harvey.
But by far my favorite relationship to explore has been that of Sabrina and her familiar Salem. It turns out that writing a cat is just about the most fun you can have in comics.
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HGL: How does Kano’s art influence your storytelling?
Corinna Bechko: Kano’s vision of Sabrina’s world became indispensable to my writing process the moment I first saw his designs. He captures the feel of her twin worlds so well that now, when I picture scenes, I see them as I imagine he’ll draw them.
There’s just so much joy and enthusiasm in every panel. I’m honestly in awe of the work he’s done on this series.
HGL: Having written superhero, science-fiction, and horror comics, do you find that your work on Sabrina inspires you in unexpected ways?
Corinna Bechko: It really does. I love to write horror, and sci-fi is a close second. Because I lean that way as a writer, I often end up working on stories that are dark in tone and weighted with political intrigue.
I enjoy telling these kinds of tales, but having the chance to work on something that is by turns playful, fun, and filled with joy has been a treat. It turns out that a splash of optimism now and then is good for the soul. Who knew?
HGL: What do you hope longtime Sabrina fans and first-time readers take away from the first issue?
Corinna Bechko: I just hope they have fun with it! I know they’re going to love Kano’s art. And I hope they end up loving Salem as much as I do.
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