Hellblazer: Mike Carey #1

Hellblazer: Mike Carey #1, published by DC Comics under the Vertigo imprint in 2002, marked the beginning of a significant tenure for writer Mike Carey on the long-running series featuring occult detective John Constantine. This relaunch followed the departure of Brian Azzarello, positioning Constantine in a narrative arc that leaned heavily into the character's British roots and his complex history with the supernatural. The issue was designed to re-establish the gritty, noir-tinged tone that defined the Vertigo era, balancing urban horror with Constantine's signature cynicism.

The issue features artwork by Steve Dillon, a long-term collaborator whose distinct, grounded style provided a necessary contrast to the fantastical elements of the plot. Carey sought to explore Constantine's personal stakes by revisiting his past encounters and long-standing grudges, moving away from the more experimental tonal shifts of previous runs. Upon its release, the issue was well-received by fans of the dark fantasy genre, praised for its sharp dialogue and its successful synthesis of Constantine's established persona with a renewed focus on psychological depth and occult mystery.