Marvel Debuts New Gay Spider-Man, Among Multiple Metaverse Iterations
The classic red and blue Spidey had better watch out—There’s a new, queer Spider-Man in town. Edge of Spider-Verse is a five-issue Marvel series launching in August, set to feature fan favorites, in addition to new metaverse versions of Spider-Man. Yes, that includes the character’s first gay incarnation, Web Weaver, in the final issue. Watch for the debut on September 28.
According to the synopsis, “Three brand-new Spiders get their start here! WEB-WEAVER: A not-so-mild-mannered fashion designer at Van Dyne gets spider-powers and shows us a very different kind of Spider-Slayer. HUNTER-SPIDER: Imagine a world where Sergei Kravinoff got Spider-Powers. You are not ready for the most hardcore Spider yet! Both of these and Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, the filmmakers behind the Spider-Verse movies, create a new Spider just in time for the END OF THE SPIDER-VERSE!”
Award-nominated, gay author Steve Foxe will write the story. Foxe explains that he wants to ensure that Web Weaver is a queer character, not generalizing LGBTQ stereotypes. According to Foxe, he is not treated or seen as a representative of the community.
“Something I realized immediately when conceiving Web-Weaver is that he can’t—and shouldn’t—represent ALL gay men. No single character can,” Foxe tweeted. “His fearlessly femme identity is central to who he is, but it’s not the STORY.”
Kris Anka, the Marvel comics artist who designed Web Weaver’s costume, says that the inspiration came from the worlds of both Alexander McQueen, a British fashion designer, and Thierry Mugler, a French fashion designer.
“I cast a wide net for the original designs while also looking at new and unique spiders that Steve Foxe has recommended, which eventually paired down to this look.” Anka tweeted on June 23.
This gay iteration of Spider-Man will feature Web Weaver in a sleek black, white, and gold outfit, furnished with a high collar, long draping sleeves, and a stylish spider design on the back.
The new Marvel series, Edge of Spider-Verse, will show an alternate and inclusive version of the iconic superhero we remember from our childhoods.
“The Marvel Universe has femme gays, masc gays, bisexual demigods, space husbands, whatever Shatterstar is—There’s room for a whole spectrum.” Foxe says.
Web Weaver shows that, while there is still a long way to go to get equal representation, Marvel is working steadily toward an inclusive future.
Photo courtesy of Twitter/@steve_foxe
