Shojo Beat Discontinued After July 2009 Issue (Updated)

The magazine distributor Alini Services has confirmed on their homepage that Shojo Beat from Viz has ceased publication and is canceled as of the July 2009 issue.

Reports have also surfaced that current subscribers have been emailed and called to become aware that Shojo Beat will be replaced with Shonen Jump for the length of the remaining subscription with no word on refunds.

Viz has also killed all of the links to the Shojo Beat new subscription and renewal forms on the Shojo Beat page, as they now redirect to a bug report form instead. Calls to their customer service line seeking more information corroborate the former confimation with reps stating that the magazine has in fact ceased publication and to continue to visit the Shojo Beat site for updates.

The last issue listed for the publication is set for August according to retailer schedules, but Viz has neither confirmed nor denied the situation at this time, with updates to follow after official word is received.

[via Kurousity]

Update: Viz has released the following statement:

“Yes, the final issue of Shojo Beat magazine will be the July 2009 issue which is on newsstands June 16th.

We are very proud of the past issues of Shojo Beat magazine and the efforts of the entire team. The magazine developed quite a fan base but unfortunately in today’s difficult economic climate we felt the need to place our resources elsewhere at this time.

Of course all of our great shojo manga titles previously serialized in Shojo Beat magazine will still be published and available as graphic novels under the Shojo Beat imprint from Viz Media.

Each Shojo Beat Subscriber will be receiving a free copy of the August issue of Shonen Jump magazine with the pertinent information on what their subscription/refund options will be.

Subscribers and fans of shojo manga can get the latest information on all new Shojo Beat titles and news by visiting www.shojobeat.com.”