Marvel's Tom Brevoort: The Hero Who Saved Spider-Man's Love Story

Marvel Editor Tom Brevoort Refused to End Spider-Man: The Final Adventure With a Tragedy

Behind the scenes of Marvel Comics, there have been a number of big decisions made over the course of Marvel history. We explore a particular moment, where a top editor drew a line in the sand, fighting to preserve one of Marvel Comics' most beloved couples.

Did Tom Brevoort Stop a Controversial Storyline About Mary Jane?

The 1990s were a time of change for Spider-man, who had just welcomed Mary Jane as his wife. It seemed a good moment to continue to see their story and, potentially, the arrival of their children! During Spider-Man: The Final Adventure (1995), an interesting request was made. A tragic miscarriage, was expected to mark the end of Peter Parker and Mary Jane. Senior Editor Tom Brevoort stood strong against this idea!

Why Did Marvel Want to Give Peter and Mary Jane Such a Sad Story?

Wolverine lunging in his new suit next to Jean Grey hugging Cyclops in X-Men '97 (2024) Image

Marvel had big plans, but this request did not make sense for Marvel history, specifically for Peter Parker and Mary Jane, the couple who seemed to capture fans' hearts! In those times, Peter was supposed to return to a solo identity, and to maintain the Spider-man status quo! It might be a difficult move for Spider-Man fans, and a difficult way to end the storyline.

What Happened When Tom Brevoort Said No?

Spider-Man Swinging in Dodson Comic Art Image

Tom Brevoort boldly pushed back! His efforts weren't enough to change Marvel's ultimate decisions, however! Sadly, Peter Parker and Mary Jane eventually experienced this tragedy as the death of their child! It happened a few years later!

What Are Fans Saying About Peter and Mary Jane's Relationship?

There is a big buzz over this iconic duo, especially within the Spider-Man canon! In general, there are few who don't agree that this is the greatest pairing within the comic world. While Marvel Comics made a number of major alterations and decisions regarding the Parker family over time, Marvel does not always seem to truly appreciate this powerful romantic relationship.

Could Mary Jane's Story Have Been Different?

If Brevoort didn't stand his ground, it's possible the trajectory of Mary Jane could have been very different. If Marvel had ended the storyline in that fashion, there's a possibility that this change in Spider-Man continuity could have even impacted what ultimately occurred in One More Day.

What Happens to Mary Jane In Other Storylines?

To show their appreciation of the duo, Marvel Comics often writes alternate realities in which the couple remain together and experience less heartache. Ultimate Spider-Man by Jonathan Hickman showed a fascinating variation on this couple, with a whole different world! Perhaps this is something Marvel will consider revisiting soon, to give a little joy to readers.