"Spider-Man '94 Writer Not Consulted for New Series"

For fans of *Spider-Man: The Animated Series*, there’s exciting news on the horizon: a brand-new comic series titled *Spider-Man '94* is set to arrive, finally exploring the unresolved cliffhanger from the original show. However, the original writer and producer of the animated series, John Semper Jr., was not consulted or involved in the development of this new project.

Semper revealed the news via a post on X (formerly Twitter) on June 18, 2025, explaining that he learned about the upcoming Marvel comic through a text message from a friend. He clarified directly to fans that he has no creative involvement with *Spider-Man '94*, stating: “NO, I am NOT involved with this comic book and no one at Marvel approached me to be involved in any way.”

Spider-Man '94 #1 Cover Art Gallery

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Semper was the driving force behind the original *Spider-Man: The Animated Series*, which aired from 1994 to 1998. His work on the show introduced what would later become known as the “Spider-Verse” concept — a now-iconic narrative element that has since expanded into acclaimed films like *Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse* (2018), *Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse* (2023), and the upcoming *Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse* (2027). In the show’s dramatic finale, Madame Web sends Spider-Man into another dimension to find the real Mary Jane Watson after she vanishes through a portal created by the Green Goblin — a storyline that ends on a major cliffhanger.

Despite his foundational contributions to the Spider-Verse lore, Semper was not contacted by Marvel for input on the new comic series. Still, he expressed confidence in the abilities of the comic’s writer, J.M. DeMatteis, praising his extensive experience in both animation and comics. Semper stated, “His amazing body of work over the years… speaks for itself, and I’m positive this new comic is in great hands.”

He also made it clear that while he respects DeMatteis’ talents, the direction of *Spider-Man '94* does not reflect his own creative vision: “Where he now chooses to take the series story-wise is entirely his decision. But, for the record, they are NOT my creative choices, nor do they represent any oversight by me.”

Semper added that although he would have appreciated being contacted out of professional courtesy, he no longer expects recognition from Marvel for his role in shaping key elements of the Spider-Man universe, including the origin of the Spider-Verse concept.

Nonetheless, Semper extended well wishes for the new series, encouraging fans to celebrate the 30th anniversary of *Spider-Man: The Animated Series* with enthusiasm. He also hinted at launching his own commemorative celebration of the show soon via his social media channels.

Spider-Man '94 #1 is scheduled for release on September 3, 2025.