The Witching Hour – DC Comics’ Iconic Horror Anthology

The Witching Hour was a groundbreaking horror anthology comic published by DC Comics from 1969 to 1978, spanning 85 issues. The series is remembered for its twisted tales, supernatural horror, and eerie atmosphere, making it a standout in the world of 1960s and 70s comics. Each issue of The Witching Hour was introduced with the chilling tagline, “It’s 12 o’clock… The Witching Hour!” (later updated to “It’s midnight…”), setting the tone for the dark and mysterious stories that followed.

The comic’s most notable feature was its three witch hosts—Mordred, Mildred, and Cynthia—who were designed by the legendary artist Alex Toth. These characters, inspired by the archetypes of Maiden, Mother, and Crone, guided readers through the comic’s stories of the macabre, haunting, and supernatural. The series featured a range of standalone stories and explored various horror themes, from ghostly hauntings to curses, occult rituals, and otherworldly creatures.

Throughout its run, The Witching Hour was graced by the artwork and contributions of some of comics’ most legendary talents, including Neal Adams, Bernie Wrightson, Gil Kane, and Michael Wm. Kaluta. The diverse storytelling and dark visual style made it a must-read for horror comic fans. In 2018, the series was revived for a five-part crossover storyline, adding new layers to its legacy with characters like Wonder Woman and Justice League Dark.

For horror enthusiasts, DC Comics collectors, and those with a love for dark fantasy and supernatural themes, The Witching Hour stands as a timeless series that remains a cornerstone of DC’s horror comics history. Its creepy charm, spooky tales, and influential storytelling continue to inspire horror comics today.