Sixty years ago, Stan Lee and Steve Ditko introduced the world to Spider-Man in the historic Amazing Fantasy #15. Over the course of six web-slinging decades, Peter Parker has inspired millions of fans and secured his spot as one of the most iconic fictional characters of all time.
To celebrate this milestone anniversary, a lineup of incredible creators from throughout the comics industry will come together this week in Amazing Fantasy #1000, an outstanding collection of stories that explore the past, present and future of Amazing Spider-Man storytelling and showcase why Spidey is one of the most beloved heroes in history.
Now, Marvel Comics has released a preview of the historic issue offering fans a better idea of what they can expect.
In this sneak peek, we see the stories that will be told by Michael Cho and Anthony Falcone, Dan Slott and Jim Cheung, Kurt Busiek, Terry Dodson, and Rachel Dodson, and Neil Gaiman and artist Steve McNiven. However, it's that preview page from Jonathan Hickman and Marco Checchetto's story that's grabbed our attention.
That sees Peter Parker reflect on his time as Spider-Man, though the page culminates with the wall-crawler admitting, "I never win...and I'm just now sure how much longer I can take it." Is it possible the hero is contemplating retirement? We don't know how much of an impact Amazing Fantasy #1000 will have on Spidey moving forward, but he has hung up the webs before!
There have been a lot of changes in the hero's world this year as a mysterious event led to everyone turning on Peter. His relationship with Mary Jane Watson has also ended, even though he appeared to be on the brink of proposing to her following Kindred's defeat and his time in hospital. More recently, Spidey started working for Norman Osborn and Oscorp!
You can join some of the industry's top talent in celebrating Spider-Man's birthday when Amazing Fantasy #1000 arrives on August 31.