Netflix buys comics publisher Millarworld

Netflix (NASDAQ:NFLX) said on Monday that it has bought comics publisher Millarworld in attempts to broaden the steamer’s comic-based TV shows and movies.

It is the first ever acquisition for Netflix, who hope to bring aboard new customers from around the world.

Mark Millar, who founded Millarworld,  said this is the third time that a comic book purchase on this scale has happened. In 1968,  Warner Bros bought DC Comics, followed by Disney buying Marvel in 2009.

Millar is still “blinking” over the news.

“I’m so in love with what Netflix is doing and excited by their plans.” he said.

“Netflix is the future and Millarworld couldn’t have a better home.”

Millarworld’s best-known comics “Kick-Ass” and “Kingsman”, both of which are not part of the deal. Netflix does have access to a range of other franchises across science fiction to fantasy, including a range of superheroes and real-world characters.

He previously worked at Marvel where he developed the comic books that inspired the first Avengers movie, Captain America: Civil War, and Logan.

“Mark has created a next-generation comics universe, full of indelible characters living in situations people around the world can identify easily with.” said Netflix chief content officer Ted Sarandos.

“We look forward to creating new Netflix Originals from several existing franchises as well as new super-hero, anti-hero, fantasy, sci-fi and horror stories Mark and his team will continue to create and publish.”

Millar wrote on his website: “Over the years, Millarworld has amassed 20 different franchises working with the world’s greatest artists and now Millarworld has been bought by the hottest, most exciting entertainment company on the planet.

“To say this is the best thing that ever happened in our professional lives would be an understatement.”

Netflix has 104 million subcribers in more than 190 countries.

Shares in the streaming giant rose 0.6 percent to $181.37 on Nasdaq.