Get ready to revisit the enchanting worlds of Halloween Town and Christmas Town, because the beloved universe of The Nightmare Before Christmas is expanding in ways we’ve only dreamed of—and this is just the beginning. Three decades after Tim Burton’s 1993 masterpiece first captivated audiences, the franchise is officially getting its first-ever ongoing comic series, and fans are in for a treat. But here’s where it gets exciting: The Nightmare Before Christmas: The Shiver of Christmas Town isn’t just a sequel—it’s a promise of more stories to come, blending the spooky and sweet charm that made the original a timeless classic.
Published by Dynamite Comics in partnership with Disney, this new series is penned by Torunn Grønbekk and illustrated by Edu Menna, with the first issue dropping on January 7, 2026. But what makes this project truly special is its commitment to staying true to the spirit of the original film. Grønbekk has been working closely with Disney and Tim Burton’s team, ensuring every script and outline aligns with the tone and magic fans adore. And this is the part most people miss: even the humor has been fine-tuned, with some of Grønbekk’s darker jokes getting the axe to maintain that perfect balance of whimsy and wit.
So, what’s the story about? The Shiver of Christmas Town dives back into the hilarious misunderstandings between Halloween Town and Christmas Town, introducing new lore and characters—including the irresistibly mischievous Shiver. Issue #1 kicks off with a classic Finkelstein experiment gone awry, resulting in the creation of this adorable yet frosty creature. Meanwhile, Lock, Shock, and Barrel are tasked with teaching Christmas Town residents how to trick-or-treat, leading to a series of pranks that spiral out of control when they ‘borrow’ ingredients from Finkelstein’s lab. The result? Chaos, laughter, and a deeper exploration of the worlds we know and love.
But here’s the controversial part: While the series promises to honor the original, it also introduces new elements that could divide fans. Is expanding the lore a risk worth taking, or should the franchise stick to what’s already worked? Grønbekk’s addition of new shops and characters is bold, but will it enrich the world or dilute its charm? We’ll let you decide.
For die-hard fans, this series is a dream come true—a true extension of the original with consistent tone, characters, and lore. And with Grønbekk hinting at more stories on the horizon, it feels like we’re on the cusp of a new era for The Nightmare Before Christmas. So, what do you think? Is this the start of something magical, or are you wary of tampering with a classic? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your thoughts!
