The comic book industry is preparing for a monumental event as Marvel Comics and DC Comics officially reunite for the release of Spider-Man/Superman #1 this April. This high-profile one-shot arrives as a cornerstone of the 50th anniversary celebration of the original Superman vs. The Amazing Spider-Man, the 1976 landmark that first brought these universes together.
Following the commercial momentum of last year’s Deadpool/Batman crossover, this new collaboration promises a double-dose of multiversal storytelling, with DC publishing its own companion one-shot, Superman/Spider-Man, in March.
Who is the creative team behind the Spider-Man and Superman crossover?
The lead story is helmed by New York Times bestselling author Brad Meltzer, marking his first full-length contribution to the Marvel Universe, alongside acclaimed artist Pepe Larraz. Meltzer highlighted the gravity of the project, stating, “I’ve been waiting fifty years to write this book. Superman and Spider-Man have affected me more than most real people. I carry them with me everywhere — and our story cuts to the core of what it means to be a good person. I’m honored that Nick Lowe and everyone at Marvel even asked. Just wait until you see Pepe’s work. Get your capes and web-shooters ready…”
In addition to the central duo, the issue features a “who’s who” of industry icons. Brian Michael Bendis and Sara Pichelli reunite for a Miles Morales segment, while Geoff Johns returns to Marvel for the first time in two decades to collaborate with Gary Frank. Dan Slott and Marcos Martin will take readers back to the 1930s to explore a meeting between Spider-Man Noir and the Golden Age Superman.
What unexpected team-ups are in Spider-Man/Superman #1?
The crossover extends well beyond Peter Parker and Clark Kent. One of the most anticipated segments features Stephanie Phillips and Phil Noto pairing Ghost-Spider (Gwen Stacy) with Supergirl. Phillips spoke on the natural synergy between the two, noting, “Spider-Gwen and Supergirl both represent different kinds of strengths and powers, but they’re united by their compassion and resilience. I really loved the chance to let these heroes save the day together and have fun doing it.”
The issue also explores deeper character dynamics through a campus-style crossover between Gwen Stacy and Lana Lang, written by Joe Kelly and illustrated by Humberto Ramos. For those seeking high-stakes action, Jason Aaron and Russell Dauterman will depict Jane Foster’s Mighty Thor alongside Wonder Woman as they face a symbiote invasion in Metropolis. Even the villains find common ground, as the main story pits the heroes against the combined machinations of Lex Luthor and Norman Osborn.
Which artists designed the Spider-Man/Superman #1 variant covers?
The visual celebration of this 50th anniversary is supported by an extensive lineup of variant covers. Gary Frank provides a cover spotlighting a battle against Mysterio, while Jeph Loeb and Jim Cheung reunite for a story Loeb believes “emotionally connects with Spider-Man: Blue and Superman for All Seasons.” Loeb described the experience of joining the project as a historic milestone, asking, “How often do you get to land on the moon? Travel back in time? Be a part of history? That’s what it was like when Marvel asked me to be part of SPIDER-MAN/SUPERMAN!“
Collectors can also look for a legendary contribution from Frank Miller featuring armored versions of the heroes, as well as atmospheric work from E.M. Gist, Skottie Young, and Peach Momoko. Editor-in-Chief C.B. Cebulski emphasized the accessibility of the issue, stating that the talent involved has crafted “all-new, easily accessible stories about the ever-growing Spider-Man and Superman families meeting for the first time.”
