The Shocking Truth Behind Spider-Man's Most Scandalous Storylines
Discover the most controversial Spider-Man storylines that left readers divided From rejected plots to shocking deaths, these narratives challenged the superhero's legacy, incited debates, and pushed the boundaries of storytelling
Spider-Man, arguably Marvel Comics' most beloved character, has played a prominent role in numerous successful storylines across various mediums, including comics, video games, animated series, and movies. However, like any character, he has also faced controversy with certain story arcs.
Certain Spider-Man storylines sparked significant backlash against Marvel. While every comic book character has their highs and lows, these particular plots either crossed the line of acceptability or fell short of meeting readers' expectations, resulting in their rejection of the comics' narratives.
9 Not Approved By The Comics Code Authority
Stan Lee and John Romita deliberately courted controversy by challenging authority and addressing a sensitive issue. In the Silver Age of Comics, the Comics Code Authority held the power to determine what was permissible in comic books, censoring potentially provocative narratives.
However, in 1971, Stan Lee and John Romita chose to tell a story about Harry Osborn's drug overdose, an act strictly prohibited by the Comics Code Authority. This daring narrative aimed to shed light on the harmful consequences of substance abuse. Defying the Code, Lee and Romita forged ahead, ultimately spurring a reevaluation of restrictions and the transformative evolution of comic books.
8 Revival
The controversial story of Revival revolves around people's resistance to change. The sudden death of Peter Parker and the introduction of Miles Morales as the new Spider-Man created a divided fan base. While some fans embraced the new character, others advocated for a product boycott. Over time, however, Miles gained enough acceptance among fans to become the main protagonist in Sony's Spider-Verse films.
7 The Night Gwen Stacy Died
Gwen Stacy's death in The Amazing Spider-Man comics sparked controversy despite being previously depicted in film. It was a shocking event for readers in the 1970s, as they had already witnessed Peter Parker's loss of Uncle Ben.
The responsibility for Gwen's demise falls on the Green Goblin, who ultimately meets his own demise in a showdown with Spider-Man. This storyline, despite its controversy, is widely praised for its exceptional writing and continues to be beloved by fans.
6 Dying Wish
Although Superior Spider-Man is now seen as a beloved depiction of the superhero, its initial introduction was met with shock and controversy. In this storyline, Dr. Octopus successfully transfers his consciousness into Peter Parker's body, resulting in Octavius assuming the role of Spider-Man while Peter seemingly dies in Octavius' former villainous form.
The main issue with this particular narrative is the abrupt and lacking ceremony surrounding Peter Parker's demise. The rapidity of his death may catch readers off guard, but it is worth noting that Peter is later restored to his own body. In the meantime, Otto Octavius undergoes his own transformation, assuming a unique incarnation of Spider-Man.
5 Civil War
The Civil War storyline was designed to provoke controversy as it pitted superheroes against each other over government regulations regarding their powers and activities. Although Captain America and Iron Man were the main focus, Spider-Man garnered controversy when he revealed his true identity as part of the superhero registration. This was a significant departure from his years of concealing his identity to safeguard his loved ones. As a result, his enemies targeted and severely injured Aunt May. The Civil War storyline served as a catalyst for a narrative that is widely regarded as the Spider-Man's worst storyline.
4 Reign
Following the success of DC's The Dark Knight Returns, Marvel attempted a similar narrative in Spider-Man's Reign. The purpose was to depict an experienced Peter Parker grappling with the challenges of Spider-Man's existence. While Marvel succeeded in delivering the Old Man Logan storyline, fans strongly disliked one specific aspect of Reign. In the comics, Peter Parker essentially bears the responsibility for Mary Jane's demise. The two shared an intimate relationship, but Mary Jane fell victim to radioactive poisoning, ultimately leading to her tragic demise. This particular storyline proved to be too much for countless fans.
3 Clone Saga
The Clone Saga, an ambitious storyline in Spider-Man's own universe, takes an unexpected turn when his clone embraces evil. Despite its high points, negative feedback arises from the handling of certain non-Peter Parker characters. This saga becomes a prime example of writers attempting to incorporate multiple elements, resulting in a mix of success and failure.
The storyline featured Ben Reilly, who assumes the identities of both the Scarlet Spider and the Jackal. However, it also includes a sequence in which Peter strikes a pregnant Mary Jane. Even supporters of the storyline acknowledge that it extended for an excessive duration.
2 Sins Past
The reputation of a deceased character in The Amazing Spider-Man was tarnished by a storyline that received backlash from fans. In Sins Past, it is uncovered that Gwen Stacy, Peter Parker's late girlfriend, had engaged in a sexual relationship with Norman Osborn. Within the narrative, Gwen becomes pregnant with Osborn's twins, who later adopt the persona of the Grey Goblin.
1 One More Day
Due to the immense backlash from fans, the despicable nature of this storyline led the writers to ultimately retcon it. As the narrative unfolded, it became apparent that a devious collective of villains had concocted an intricate web of deception, aimed at ensnaring Peter Parker and dismantling his life. In order to salvage Gwen's reputation and rectify the damage done, the writers skillfully employed a retcon to erase the tarnished events.
It is always a contentious topic when comics explore storylines where the hero and their romantic partner go through a breakup. However, the decision for the couple to attempt to sell their marriage to the devil is undoubtedly an unusual choice. In the comic arc titled "One More Day," Peter Parker and Mary Jane Watson are happily married, but face the challenge of Aunt May being hospitalized. In a desperate bid to save Aunt May, they make a pact with Mephisto, offering their marriage in exchange for her well-being.
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The story was evidently designed to captivate and stimulate reflection, but it ended up having the opposite effect. The decision of this couple to give up their love seemed inconsistent with their personalities. Moreover, the aftermath generated more inquiries than resolutions.
