Great news for fans of 'Spider-Man: The Animated Series' – a new comic, Spider-Man '94, is on the way to finally resolve the show’s major cliffhanger. However, John Semper Jr., the show's original writer, wasn’t invited to contribute to the comic or even consulted about it.
"I received a text this morning from my friend Matt Dunford, informing me that Marvel is 'continuing' my animated Spider-Man series as a four-issue limited comic called Spider-Man '94," Semper shared with fans via X/Twitter on June 18.
He went on to say, "Since fans will likely ask: no, I am NOT involved in this comic, and no one from Marvel reached out to me in any capacity. Matt's text was my first notification."
Spider-Man '94 #1 Cover Art Gallery
View 4 Images
Semper was the showrunner for the series, which aired from 1994 to 1998. It introduced what is now the widely popular "Spider-Verse" storyline. In the finale – spoiler alert – Madame Web sends Spider-Man to another dimension to find the real Mary Jane after the Green Goblin makes her vanish through a portal. Despite this iconic cliffhanger, Semper wasn't asked to return for the new comic.
Nevertheless, Semper did express admiration for the comic's writer, J.M. DeMatteis, in his post.
So, about that new SPIDER-MAN '94 comic book... pic.twitter.com/7yTN9h06vC
— John Semper Jr. (@johnsemper) June 18, 2025
"DeMatteis has an incredible track record in both animation and comics, so I'm confident the comic is in capable hands," Semper continued. "The direction he takes the story is entirely up to him. However, these are not my creative decisions, nor do they reflect any input from me."
He added, "It would have been considerate – some might even say respectful – if Marvel had contacted me as a courtesy. But I've long since given up expecting Marvel to acknowledge my contributions to their universe, such as creating what is now known as the 'Spider-Verse.'"
The Spider-Verse concept has since inspired hit animated films like 2018’s 'Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse,' 2023’s 'Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse,' and the upcoming 'Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse,' scheduled for 2027.
"I wish them the best and hope we can all joyfully celebrate the 30th anniversary of 'Spider-Man: The Animated Series,'" Semper concluded, noting that he will soon "launch my own celebration of the series" on his social media channels.
Spider-Man '94 #1 is scheduled for release on September 3, 2025.
