Marvel is building toward a major milestone as Amazing Spider-Man approaches its 1000th issue this September, and the road there is already heating up. Following Peter Parker’s return from the “Death Spiral” crossover with Venom, writer Joe Kelly continues to raise the stakes in Amazing Spider-Man #30 and #31, arriving this June.
In issue #30, Kelly teams with guest artist Pete Woods to introduce a brand-new villain, Spore. The twist hits close to home, as one of Peter’s oldest friends is transformed by a tragic accident that Peter himself caused. Now, Spider-Man must face the consequences in a battle that feels deeply personal.
Kelly explained the thinking behind the new foe. “From the beginning of my run, Nick [Lowe] and I talked about a new villain that harkened back to early Amazing Spider-Man classics. Someone with science-based powers, caused by a lab accident, etc. But rather than give this villain an excuse to hate Spider-Man, they would be decided anti-Peter Parker. Enter Brian Nehring, who not only has a complex childhood past with Peter, but also blames him for the accident that transforms him into Spore! Pete Woods did an amazing job on his design, creepy and modern. He’s a sick puppy… Brian, not Pete… maybe Pete.”
Then in issue #31, Patrick Gleason joins Kelly for a story titled “The Talk,” which sets the stage for what is being billed as a major turning point ahead of issue #1000. The issue promises a deeply emotional reveal that reshapes Peter’s world in a lasting way.
“There is so much to say about this issue… it’s heartbreaking, for one. Some of the most honest and emotional stuff we’ve done,” Kelly said. “Pat Gleason delivers a powerhouse performance and captures everything I’d hoped for. It’s also one of those times where you can honestly say ‘this changes everything.’ A family secret comes to light that rocks Peter and May to foundation of their relationship. It’s huge and has ramifications well past issue #1000. I try not to oversell these sort of moments… but this is the big one.”
With a new villain, a deeply personal conflict, and a major revelation on the horizon, Amazing Spider-Man is clearly building toward something significant as it heads into its landmark issue.
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #30 (LGY#994)
Written by JOE KELLY
Art by PETE WOODS
Cover by MARK BAGLEY
On Sale 6/3
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #31 (LGY#995)
Written by JOE KELLY
Art and Cover by PATRICK GLEASON
On Sale 6/17
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