The Pink Panther #48

The Pink Panther #48 was published in 1978 by Gold Key Comics, a division of Western Publishing. This issue arrived during the twilight of the comic's initial run, which began in 1974 to capitalize on the enduring popularity of the character originated by Friz Freleng for the 1963 film's opening credits. The series functioned as a lighthearted extension of the animated shorts, prioritizing slapstick visual gags and the character's signature cool, mischievous demeanor to appeal to a younger demographic.

The interior art for the Gold Key era generally adhered to the house style developed by the studio's bullpen, focusing on maintaining the iconic design of the Panther as defined by Blake Edwards’ film universe. While specific credits for individual issues like number 48 were rarely highlighted at the time, these comics were produced as mass-market newsstand items. They were received primarily as supplemental entertainment for fans of the television cartoons, rather than as prestige literary works, ultimately becoming artifacts of 1970s licensed pop culture.