Zits Shifts Gears: The Future of Comic Strip Syndication
Longtime fans of the Zits comic strip can continue to enjoy Jeremy Duncan’s teenage adventures, but with a change in delivery. As of February 28, 2026, King Features Syndicate will be curating daily Zits strips from its extensive archive, while Jerry Scott and Jim Borgman will continue to produce original Zits Sunday strips.
A Changing Landscape for Comic Strips
This move isn’t unique to Zits. The comic strip world is adapting to evolving readership habits and the demands placed on creators. Doonesbury, FoxTrot, Phoebe and Her Unicorn, and Shrimp & Grits have also transitioned to a “Sundays only” model for recent content. This shift acknowledges the pressures of consistently producing both daily and Sunday strips, particularly for creators with decades-long careers.
According to King Features Executive Editor Amy Anderson, Jerry Scott and Jim Borgman will continue to create original Sunday strips “every week and for certain occasions.” The decision to utilize the archive for daily strips allows readers to revisit beloved storylines and provides a consistent stream of content without requiring daily creation.
The Appeal of Reruns: Nostalgia and Accessibility
The strategy of re-running classic strips taps into a growing trend of nostalgia in entertainment. Just as audiences enjoy rewatching favorite television shows, revisiting familiar comic strips can be comforting and enjoyable. This approach also introduces Zits to new readers who may not have encountered the strip during its initial run.
The curated archive offers a chance for both longtime fans and newcomers to experience the breadth of Zits’ nearly 30-year history. This approach mirrors the strategies employed by streaming services, which leverage extensive libraries to maintain subscriber engagement.
Impact on Collections and Creators
The shift to Sundays-only original content may affect Andrews McMeel’s annual Zits collections. However, the publisher could potentially mitigate this by incorporating title panels into the books, maximizing the use of Jim Borgman’s artwork.
The decision appears to be, in part, a recognition of the workload for veteran cartoonist Jim Borgman, who has been creating comics professionally since 1976. After 50 years of deadlines, a more sustainable approach allows him to continue contributing to Zits without the pressure of daily production.
The Legacy of Zits
Zits, created by Jerry Scott and illustrated by Jim Borgman, debuted in 1997 and quickly gained popularity for its relatable portrayal of teenage life. The comic strip centers on Jeremy Duncan, a 17-year-old high school junior, and his experiences navigating family, friends, and the challenges of adolescence. It has been syndicated in over 1,700 newspapers worldwide and translated into 15 languages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Jim Borgman be okay?
Yes, according to King Features Executive Editor Amy Anderson, Jim Borgman is doing well healthwise.
Where can I read Zits?
You can find the Zits comic strip at Comics Kingdom.
Will there still be new Zits content?
Yes, original Zits Sunday strips will continue to be created weekly, and for special occasions.
What is the future of comic strip syndication?
The future likely involves a mix of original content and curated archives, adapting to creator needs and audience preferences.
Who created Zits?
Jerry Scott wrote the comic and Jim Borgman illustrated it.
When did Zits first appear in newspapers?
Zits debuted on July 7, 1997.
Enjoy the timeless humor of Zits! Explore more comics and stay updated on the latest news in the world of cartooning by visiting The Daily Cartoonist.
