Marvel Comics is set to continue the beloved 1994 animated series "Spider-Man: The Animated Series" with a brand-new four-issue limited comic series, "Spider-Man '94," launching in September 2025. While the announcement has ignited considerable anticipation among longtime fans, it has also drawn attention due to the notable absence of the original showrunner, John Semper Jr., from the project. 
John Semper Jr. was the primary creative force behind "Spider-Man: The Animated Series," which aired from 1994 to 1998. The show not only garnered immense fan adoration but is also widely recognized as the foundational origin of the "Spider-Verse" concept. The series finale famously left viewers with a cliffhanger, as Spider-Man was transported by Madame Web to another dimension to search for Mary Jane Watson. Now, that unresolved storyline is finally set to continue in comic book form.
However, Semper revealed on X (formerly Twitter) on June 18 that he first learned about Marvel's plans for "Spider-Man '94" through a message from his friend, Matt Dunford. He explicitly stated that he has had no creative involvement in the new comic series, and Marvel never reached out to him regarding the project.
Despite not being invited to participate, Semper publicly expressed his approval of the comic's writer, J.M. DeMatteis. He lauded DeMatteis's extensive experience in both animation and comics, noting that DeMatteis would undoubtedly steer the story in fresh directions. However, Semper was careful to emphasize that these new creative choices do not reflect his original vision and have not been reviewed by him.
Semper further lamented that Marvel has, for many years, failed to formally acknowledge his significant contributions to the Spider-Man universe, particularly his creation of the "Spider-Verse" concept, which has since achieved global recognition. This concept later served as the basis for the critically acclaimed "Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse" and its subsequent sequels.
While expressing some regret, Semper concluded by offering his best wishes for the comic's release and encouraged fans to join in celebrating the 30th anniversary of "Spider-Man: The Animated Series." He also mentioned plans to host his own commemorative activities on his personal social media, demonstrating his enduring love and respect for the iconic series.