One of the minds behindSpider-Man: The Animated Seriesisn’t ecstatic about Marvel Comics' upcoming revival. Just last week, Marvel announced that it was bringing back the beloved ’90s cartoon with a four-issue miniseries that would pick up where the animated series left off. However, the show’s lead writer takes issuewith how Marvel Comics ishandling the revival.
Not even a week ago, Marvel Comics announced that it wouldbe publishingSpider-Man ‘94, a miniseries set in the same continuity ofSpider-Man: The Animated Series. Fans everywhere were ecstatic at the news, if only because it would finally resolve the show’s cliffhanger ending.
But John Semper, head writer forSpider-Man: The Animated Series, was less thrilled. He made posts on various social media channels, includingX, to inform fans that he, unfortunately, was not involved with the upcoming book.While Semper wished luck to those involved, he notes it would have been courteous to receive a heads-up.
Spider-Man: The Animated SeriesCreator Left Out of Comic Revival
John Semper Airs Greivances OverSpider-Man ‘94Snub
Spider-Man: The Animated Seriesaired from 1994 to 1998 on Fox Kids and is considered one of the best adaptations of the Spider-Man franchise. The show adapted numerous popular Spider-Man storylines and arcs, but what the show is infamously remembered for was its infamous cliffhanger ending. The season 5 episode finale “Chapter II: Farewell, Spider-Man"ended with Spider-Man beginning a hunt for Mary Jane, who’d become lost after falling through an inter-dimensional portal. While the plot point was never resolved, Marvel Comics’ recent announcement ofSpider-Man ‘94gave hope to fans who’d been waiting decades to see that cliffhanger resolved.
It’s unfortunate that Semper isn’t a part ofSpider-Man ‘94. After all, he wrote, most of the series’ episodes and few in this world understand that take on Spider-Man better than him. Not to mention, this is on top of Semper feeling he wasn’t properly credited for the creation of the ‘Spider-Verse’ over his use of a Spider-Man multiverse in the series. That said, Semper doesn’t appear to hold ill will towards the project, even wishing it the best. ButSemper could have been a valuable asset in making sureSpider-Man ‘94felt exactly likeSpider-Man: The Animated Series.
Creators Like Semper Deserve to be Treated Fairly
Everything Fans Love About Heroes Begins with Them
The treatment of creators has been a hot topic when it comes to Marvel (primarily the compensation of comic creators when it comes to the MCU). But this is just as bad a look. While Marvel Comics isn’t obligated to reach out to John Semper, nor does it need his permission to make aSpider-Man ‘94comic, Semper is correct, it would have been courteous to reach out and fans would have appreciated the gesture from the publisher. While everyone is free to enjoySpider-Man ‘94, Semper’s feelings about being left out are completely and understandably valid.
Spider-Man ‘94 #1is available from Marvel Comics on September 3rd, 2025.
