Marvel Meets Manga: Yes, Demon Slayer Helped Inspire X-Men's Newest Solo Series

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Comic books and manga are often associated with each other, given the many similarities between the two. Both are world-famous mediums of telling compelling stories, accompanied by beautiful illustrations that elevate the plot. Yet, it is always a bit shocking when these art forms crossover, more so when it involves a company as popular as Marvel Comics.

Yet, this has been the case for the new Magik solo series, which will follow the titular sword-wielding X-Men member. In a recent interview with AIPT Comics, Ashley Allen, the author of this exciting series, revealed that one of her main inspirations for the series was manga. She put special emphasis on Demon Slayer, a series that shares a resemblance to Magik’s story.

Tanjiro’s Adventure Inspired the Newest Marvel Series

The Story Contains Many Elements From Beloved Manga

On November 4, 2024, the author of the recently released Magik solo series, Ashley Allen, gave an interview to AIPT Comics about her work on the series. She talked extensively about the creative process behind the series and the importance of the protagonist as a member of the X-Men. When asked about the atmosphere of Illyana’s adventure, Allen revealed that the series would have a supernatural horror feel to it, which feels appropriate for the character.

The author also revealed that she grew up reading manga and wanted her series to pay homage to the titles that left a mark on her. The franchises she mentioned were Full Metal Alchemist, Soul Eater, and Demon Slayer. The last one seems especially important, seeing as Magik is known for her fight against demon-like creatures with her outstandingly powerful weapon, the Soulsword. The first issue of this series was released on January 8, 2025, so fans can already acquire it in their favorite stores.

The Similarities Between Magik and Tanjiro

The Protagonists Are More Alike Than Fans Realize

Born in Siberia, Russia, Illyana was a mutant girl sister to the iconic X-Men member Colossus. She dreamed of awakening her powers and going to Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters. Her dreams were forcibly taken from her when she was kidnapped by one of Marvel's most powerful demons, Mephisto, who brought her to a hell-like realm known as Limbo. While there, she awakened her powers, giving her the ability to summon a mighty blade known as the Soulsword. With it, she conquered Limbo, overthrowing her kidnapper as its ruler. She soon after returned to Earth and became an X-Men member, battling all sorts of demonic creatures.

While they may not seem similar at first, Magik’s story has many similarities with that of Tanjiro Kamado. Both were regular children who dreamed about helping others and suffered greatly at the hands of a Demon King. Their tragic childhoods motivated them to become expert swordfighters, using their skills to defeat the ones who ruined their lives. Despite this, they are genuinely caring and kind people, always willing to help their loved ones and protect the innocent. Allen being inspired by Tanjiro to write Illyana’s thrilling new series makes a lot of sense.

Magik being inspired by manga will not be the last time that an American comic will be influenced by a Japanese series. Nonetheless, this does not take away from how awesome it is to know that such an amazing series like Demon Slayer has helped inspire one of Marvel’s latest projects.

Source: AIPT Comics