The series premiered in 1962.

Barbarella is considered the forerunner of erotic and adult comic book art. The series features the title heroine, who is a modern and emancipated, sexy woman, who travels between planets in search of evil villains - and good sex partners. At the time of its premiere Barbarella was seen as a contribution to the young generation's growing desire for sexual freedom.

In 1968 a herostratically famous American film, built on the comic book, emerged. It was directed by Frenchman Roger Vadim and had his wife, Jane Fonda, in the all-dominating, starring role.