Marvel's What If...? Resurrects Gwen Stacy To Become Spider-Man

“What If…? Dark: Spider-Gwen” is written by Gerry Conway and Jody Houser, with art by Ramon Bachs. Conway is intimately familiar with the original story, considering he wrote the 1974 arc that killed Gwen in the first place, earning the ire of Stan Lee. This book will allow him the opportunity to revisit probably his most famous work and explore how Gwen’s death (or survival) changes everything in Spider-Man’s corner of Marvel Comics. 

Without any dialog in the preview pages, it’s hard to discern exactly what specific plot points are playing out, but Gwen looks undeniably determined as she pulls on her dead boyfriend’s mask. Even without text, Bachs’ art makes it clear Gwen is ready for a fight.

Besides Lee, many readers at the time of the original book’s release also expressed anger over Gwen Stacy’s death, with many writing in to voice their displeasure. While the character is enjoying a resurgence now, “The Night Gwen Stacy Died” made her just another dead love interest to serve as the male hero’s motivation. But now, by reversing that dynamic and empowering Gwen instead, this new “What If…?” entry looks to be setting up a Gwen Stacy who no longer needs any saving.

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