In a recent edition of the Amazing Spider-Man #4, one panel showed the character wearing a sticker that refers to an anti-Mormon book. Upon learning of its meaning, Marvel changed all artwork on the panel on various media platforms.
Before panel: BleedingCool.com; After panel: THR
What’s happening:
- Marvel and Spider-Man artist,Ryan Ottley have taken steps to remove a visual reference in the latest issue of Amazing Spider-Man.
- According to The Hollywood Reporter, Marvel’s Amazing Spider-Man #4 comic contained a visual reference to the anti-Mormon book, CES Letter.
- The book question was written by ex-Mormon Jeremy Runnells who grew up in the faith then began to question its origins and practices.
- The artwork has since been changed on the digital version of the comic and any future printings and/or trade paperbacks will contain the new artwork.
Statement from Marvel:
- “The art reference in Amazing Spider-Man #4 was included without awareness by Marvel of its meaning. As a policy, Marvel does not permit hidden controversial messages in its artwork. The reference will be removed from all subsequent printings, digital versions and trade paperbacks.”
Statement from Ryan Ottley:
- “I’ve spoken with Marvel about my recent artwork, and I have no animosity toward members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. My entire family are members, as are many of my friends, and I would never include anything mean-spirited about them or their beliefs. The reference was in regards to a subject I am interested in and a personal decision I made in my life. It has nothing to do with the character, the story or Marvel.”