Spider-Man: Shadow of the Web with Jonathan Hickman

Marvel Comics has announced Spider-Man: Shadow of the Web, a new ongoing series written by Jonathan Hickman that promises to take Peter Parker into uncharted territory. Following his acclaimed runs on Fantastic Four, Avengers, and X-Men, Hickman now turns his attention to Marvel's most iconic solo hero.

A New Direction for Spider-Man

"Spider-Man has always operated at street level," Hickman explains. "But Peter Parker is also a scientist, an Avenger, and someone who's been to space multiple times. Shadow of the Web explores what happens when the cosmic and mystical elements of the Marvel Universe start paying attention to him."

The series premise centers on a discovery: the web-slinger's powers have cosmic implications that extend far beyond New York City. Ancient entities, interdimensional forces, and technological civilizations across the galaxy have all taken notice of the "Web of Life and Destiny" that connects Spider-People throughout the multiverse.

Creative Team

Hickman is joined by artist Pepe Larraz, who previously collaborated with him on House of X/Powers of X and numerous X-Men titles. The pairing reunites one of Marvel's most acclaimed writer-artist duos.

"Pepe brings cinematic scope to everything he draws," says Hickman. "For a story that moves between the streets of Queens and the far reaches of the cosmos, we need an artist who can make both feel real and grounded."

What to Expect

Marvel promises Shadow of the Web will feature:

• Cosmic Spider-Man: Peter's connection to the Web of Life expands his awareness across dimensions
• Mystical Elements: Introduction of the "Spider-Totems" and their ancient enemies
• Scientific Mystery: Peter's research into his own powers leads to discoveries that threaten multiple worlds
• Street-Level Action: Despite the cosmic scope, Peter still protects NYC and deals with local threats

Market Impact

Collector interest in Spider-Man keys has already increased following the announcement:

• Amazing Fantasy #15: Raw copies up 12% in the past week
• Amazing Spider-Man #1 (1963): High-grade copies seeing renewed interest
• Spider-Man #1 (1990): McFarlane cover seeing modest gains
• Ultimate Spider-Man #1: First Miles Morales appearances holding strong

"Hickman's track record is proven," says dealer Marcus Chen. "When he takes over a title, key issues from that character's history tend to appreciate. Collectors are positioning themselves early."

Release Information

Spider-Man: Shadow of the Web #1 ships in July 2026 with multiple cover variants:

• Standard Cover: Pepe Larraz main cover
• Variant A: Alex Ross painted cover
• Variant B: Todd McFarlane homage to Amazing Spider-Man #300
• 1:50 Incentive: Blank sketch variant
• 1:100 Incentive: Foil-stamped exclusive

Final Order Cutoff is June 15, 2026. The series will ship monthly with Hickman and Larraz committed to at least 12 issues.