"The Shield," one of three initially announced launch titles in Archie Comics' reimagined superhero line Dark Circle Comics, has hit another delay -- and also picked up a new artist. "The Shield" will now debut in July rather than June (the book was originally planned for May), and feature interior art by Drew Johnson, a veteran of multiple "Wonder Woman" series at DC Comics and writer and artist of upcoming Dark Horse Comics miniseries "Midnight Society: The Black Lake."

"Drew's art is dynamic, powerful and befitting the strong character writers Adam Christopher and Chuck Wendig have introduced into the Dark Circle universe," Dark Circle group editor Alex Segura said in a statement to CBR. "We're so honored Drew is joining the party and fans are really in for a treat for this book."

Segura said that the departure of originally announced series artist David Williams was due to "unforeseen circumstances," and that his art will continue to be seen on Dark Circle covers. Of the further "Shield" delay, Segura said it's a matter of making sure enough issues are ready to go to stay on schedule. "We do not want to start a Dark Circle title if we think there's any chance the book will be significantly late. We want these books to come out regularly and keep fans coming back to their comic shops for the next issue."

Additionally, Archie has released updated solicitation text for "The Shield" #1 and "The Shield" #2, which are slated for July and August, respectively.

THE SHIELD #1

NEW ONGOING SERIES FROM DARK CIRCLE! "Daughter of the Revolution, Part 1" Since the dawn of the republic, whenever her country faces its blackest days, she returns: a spirit of the revolution sent to fight for what is right. But when she reappears for the first time in a generation with no memories-not even of her own identity-and encounters an evil force expecting her arrival, all the Shield can do is... run!

Script: Adam Christopher and Chuck Wendig

Art: Drew Johnson, Rachel Deering, Kelly Fitzpatrick

Cover: David Williams

Variant Cover: Wilfredo Torres

Variant Cover: Andrew Robinson

Variant Cover: Rafael Albuquerque

Dark Circle Movie Throwback Variant Cover: Robert Hack

On Sale Date: 7/15

32-page, full color comic

$3.99 U.S.

THE SHIELD #2

NEW ONGOING SERIES FROM DARK CIRCLE! "Daughter of the Revolution, Part 2" Running out of places to hide, the Shield discovers she is not without allies. Detective Nicole Simmons seems to know exactly who-and what-the Shield is, but with the enigmatic government agent Walter Chase closing the noose, the pair faces two difficult questions: why is the Shield back now... and whose side is she really on?

Script: Adam Christopher and Chuck Wendig

Art: Drew Johnson, Rachel Deering, Kelly Fitzpatrick

The Shield #2 CVR A Reg: David Williams

The Shield #2 CVR B Variant: Steve Rude

The Shield #2 CVR C Variant: Evan Shaner

The Shield #2 CVR D Variant: Wilfredo Torres

On Sale Date: 8/19

32-page, full color comic

$3.99 U.S.