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Mike Batt to make in costume appearance as Croix-Noire character at London Comic Con this weekend

• 23rd May 2023

The world of Croix-Noire has been enthralling listeners, readers, and game players for months now, and as the dramatic conclusion of the comic series draws near, the journey of Ace Hansel Jr. continues.

Mike Batt and Jean-Charles Capelli step up their campaign for this unique multi-media project by appearing in character as Lt Col John Talbot, and downbeat Superhero Ace Hansel Jr at this year’s London COMIC CON at the ExCel Exhibition Centre from 26^th – 28^th May. The pair will be present in costume throughout the weekend for interviews and signings, culminating in a film and Q&A panel event at CENTRE STAGE, 4:10pm on the Sunday afternoon, featuring Batt, Capelli, David Quantick and distinguished letterer/designer Ian Sharman.

Speaking about his appearance at the event, Mike says, “At first I thought ‘This’ll be fun but maybe a bit undignified, dressing up as my cartoon character’. Then I thought – ‘hang on, compared to being in a Womble costume this is serious drama!’”

The ramp-up in promotional activity will involve substantial messaging and signage at the Comicon, and the focus will be firmly on the limited edition debut release of the complete David Quantick-Mike Collins graphic novel “ACE HANSEL AND THE LEGEND OF CROIX-NOIRE” (a bound collection of the seven comic issues). The rebooted album “SONGS FROM CROIX-NOIRE” will also be unveiled, with four additional tracks/mixes including a new mix by Ash Howes of the new single “You Set Me On Fire”.

Fans attending ComiCon London between May 26^th – 28^th will have the chance to meet the creative team at STAND N825 and to buy the first editions of the graphic novel, plus the comic back-issues, the freshly-minted Extended CD and a range of other cool expo-exclusive merchandise items.

Follow Ace Hansel Jr’s pulp-inspired journey through one of the roughest areas in France, full of deadbeats, drug addicts and hookers (and that’s just the municipal library!), as he uses his powers of emotional manipulation to uncover a dastardly plot involving mad scientists, freaky mutants, and mysterious figures from his past. Marvel at sinister characters and settings bought to life with insane visuals courtesy of Mike Collins; as you follow a narrative spanning the page and airwaves in this multi-media opus from one of the most celebrated creative teams around.