Marvel Comics is set to present a somber variation of a significant event in the comic book realm. In a fresh installment of the “What If…?” series, the publisher will uncover an alternate scenario where Spider-Man meets his demise instead of Gwen Stacy. This moment is widely regarded as one of the most tragic in the history of comics.
Marvel’s “The Amazing Spider-Man” #121-122, popularly known as “The Night Gwen Stacy Died,” is a poignant and influential story arc. The unforgettable tale, which hit the stands almost half a century ago, depicted the kidnapping of Gwen Stacy by the Green Goblin, compelling Spider-Man to face off against the villain on the Brooklyn Bridge. Unfortunately, Spider-Man fails to rescue his beloved as his attempt to prevent her from falling results in her demise. This tragic moment was reenacted in “The Amazing Spider-Man 2” movie, where Andrew Garfield’s Spider-Man was unable to save Emma Stone’s Gwen. The scene has since been regarded as one of the most heart-wrenching deaths in all the “Spider-Man” movies. However, in the latest Marvel Cinematic Universe movie, “No Way Home,” this universe’s Spider-Man finds redemption by saving MJ from a similar fate.
Gwen Stacy’s death had a profound and long-lasting effect on Peter Parker and the entire Marvel Universe, as the primary version of the character has remained deceased in Earth-616 continuity. Nonetheless, Marvel is preparing to revisit this tragic moment in “What If…? Dark: Spider-Gwen” #1, which will alter the original storyline by swapping the positions of Gwen and Peter.
New What If…? Storyline Swaps Fate of Gwen Stacy and Spider-Man
Recently, ComicBook.com disclosed a fresh “What If…?” narrative that would offer a new take on the demise of Gwen Stacy. The upcoming release, “What If…? Dark: Spider-Gwen” #1, will depict Gwen Stacy’s inability to rescue Spider-Man from the fatal clutches of the Green Goblin. The project will be spearheaded by Gerry Conway, who authored the original “The Night Gwen Stacy Died” comic, and writer Jody Houser (“Mother Panic”) and artist Ramon Bachs (“Planet Hulk: Worldbreaker”) will join him in bringing the project to life. This new story will explore an alternate universe where Spider-Man perishes in the incident that had initially claimed the life of Gwen.
“What If…? Dark: Spider-Gwen” #1″ is among the latest “Dark” one-shot comics from Marvel, which offers a fresh perspective on classic tales with a twist. With the extensive history of somber moments within the pages of Marvel Comics, numerous storylines could be reimagined under this imprint. For instance, Marvel could explore an alternative scenario where Daredevil swaps place with Elektra after her death at the hands of Bullseye in “Daredevil” #181. In essence, this provides a new approach to revisit well-known arcs and reintroduce the “What If…?” banner simultaneously.
Spider-Man’s Demise Sparks New Origin Story for Spider-Gwen
Greg Land’s cover art for “What If…? Dark: Spider-Gwen” #1 showcases Spider-Gwen, suggesting that the demise of Spider-Man will motivate Stacy to embrace the role of a hero herself. This could create an alternative origin story for Spider-Gwen under the “What if…?” banner. Interestingly, this new narrative somewhat parallels the backstory of the actual Spider-Gwen, who had to witness the tragic death of her Peter Parker (who, in her universe, was the Lizard). Evidently, the relationship between Peter Parker and Gwen Stacy always culminates in a severe tragedy, regardless of the universe they’re in.
While the exact contents of the “What If…? Dark: Spider-Gwen” #1 comic remain unknown, it’s safe to assume that readers can expect a range of tragic events based on the title alone. Beyond a reimagined version of “The Night Gwen Stacy Died,” the moniker “What If…? Dark” suggests that the story will feature a variety of somber moments.
In July, comic book stores will receive “What If…? Dark: Spider-Gwen,” the inaugural issue of a new series of one-shots from Marvel Comics. Fans can expect to witness a tragic reversal of fates between Gwen Stacy and Spider-Man in this particular issue.
