As the second full week of the year wraps up, new information is emerging across collectibles, upcoming films and TV, and this week’s comic releases. Everything below is fresh, forward-looking, and specific to 2026.
Action Figures & Collectibles
Hot Toys Confirms 2026 Release Schedule Reset
Hot Toys has issued an update to distributors confirming that several sixth-scale figures originally listed for late 2025 are now officially part of its 2026 release schedule. The move reflects revised production timelines and affects a mix of Marvel, DC, and Star Wars characters.
Collectors should expect updated shipping windows to appear on retailer listings over the next few weeks, making January an important month for tracking revised delivery dates.
Hasbro Star Wars Team Signals New Pipeline Reveal
Hasbro’s Star Wars team has confirmed that its first 2026 Pipeline Reveal is planned for later this month. These events typically outline figures planned across The Black Series and Vintage Collection lines, giving collectors an early look at what the year will bring without full reveals.
With Star Wars celebrating multiple anniversaries in 2026, expectations are high for deeper cuts and expanded character selections.
Movies & TV (Superhero, Horror, Pop Culture)
The Batman Part II Moves Closer to Cameras Rolling
Warner Bros. has reaffirmed that The Batman Part II is still targeting a 2026 theatrical release, with pre-production entering its final stages. Casting discussions and location prep are reportedly underway, even though official filming dates have not yet been announced.
The sequel remains one of the most anticipated superhero films on the calendar, especially following the grounded tone of the first film.
Blade Remains on Marvel’s 2026 Calendar
Marvel Studios has reiterated internally that Blade is still positioned as a 2026 project. While the film has had a long development journey, sources indicate that the studio is committed to delivering a darker, more focused supernatural story than earlier MCU entries.
No new footage or casting updates have been released, but Marvel continues to treat Blade as a priority horror-leaning release.
Horror Franchises Preparing 2026 Returns
Several established horror franchises are lining up releases for 2026, with studios expected to begin marketing pushes later this year. Industry watchers note a continued shift toward atmospheric horror and slower-burn storytelling rather than jump-scare-driven films.
This trend aligns with the genre’s strong performance on streaming platforms heading into the new year.
Comicbooks
New Comic Book Day Brings First Friday Momentum
Although Wednesday remains the main release day, retailers report strong carry-over sales today as readers catch up on January 2026’s first wave of new issues. Many shoppers are focusing on number ones and early arcs released this week.
January often sets the tone for breakout series, especially in horror and sci-fi.
Publisher Focus Turning Toward Spring Events
Comic publishers are beginning to tease spring 2026 storylines, with hints appearing in back-matter previews and retailer briefings. Rather than massive crossovers, many companies are leaning into contained events and mini-series.
For readers, this makes early 2026 a good time to sample new books before larger storylines take over later in the year.
What to Collect, Watch, and Read Today
Collect
- Monitor Hot Toys retailer updates for revised 2026 shipping dates.
- Watch for Hasbro’s upcoming Star Wars Pipeline Reveal.
Watch
- Keep an eye on production updates for The Batman Part II.
- Track early signals around Marvel’s Blade as development continues.
Read
- Catch up on this week’s new comic releases if you missed Wednesday.
- Try a new January launch while storylines are still at the ground floor.