It’s official: the Transformers and G.I. Joe universes are about to collide. These heroes have come together in the pages of the comics before but now, they’re joining forces for a brand new animated series. Hailing from The Walking Dead creator Robert Kirkman and Hasbro, get ready for the Energon Universe.
According to Deadline, Kirkman’s Skybound Entertainment and Hasbro have partnered for an adult animated series titled Energon Universe. This will be based on the shared universe Kirkman helped launch at Skybound with his original book Void Rivals in 2023. That book included a surprise connection to Transformers. It ended up being a launching pad for a new era for the Robots in Disguise, as well as G.I. Joe.
Joe Henderson (Lucifer) is set to serve as showrunner, in addition to writing the adaptation. It should be noted that this series is being made with adults in mind. Don’t expect a PG take on the material that would play well on Nickelodeon. No word yet on how soon the series could enter production but it sounds like it’s early on in the creative process.
The various Energon books have now sold more than 7 million copies, becoming massive successes. While no network or streaming service is attached yet, there will undoubtedly be no shortage of interest. It’s worth noting that Kirkman has his Invincible animated series at Amazon Prime Video. That instantly feels like a logical destination.
“It’s a tremendous honor to be able to reintroduce this world to a new audience under the Skybound banner,” Kirkman said when the Energon Universe was first announced. “I’ve loved these characters for most of my life and to have the opportunity to add to the already rich tapestry Hasbro has built with the all-new Void Rivals is an unbelievable opportunity. If you look at everything done with Transformers and G.I. Joe, you can see the inkling of a vast universe with tremendous potential for crossovers and interaction that will enhance the fan experience while staying true to the individual identities of both concepts. I look forward to exploring that potential for years to come.”
Meanwhile, Paramount previously announced a live-action Transformers/G.I. Joe crossover movie. Chris Hemsworth (Thor) was even attached to star. But details on that project have been few and far between. A sequel to the animated Transformers One is also off the table. The G.I. Joe franchise has been dead for some time outside of the comics. This show could be just what both franchises need right now.
The Energon Universe TV show doesn’t currently have a release date.
What do you think? Are you excited about the show? Have you been reading the comics? Join in on the conversation over on Facebook or Twitter!
