While we named Deniz Camp and Juan Frigeri’s The Ultimates as the Best Comic Book Series or Original Graphic Novel of 2024, Marvel’s Fantastic Four presented serious competition. Writer Ryan North and his collaborators have elevated the series to its strongest position in years. With The Fantastic Four: First Steps hitting theaters soon, Marvel aims to capture an even wider audience this summer.
Marvel will relaunch Fantastic Four in July, with North continuing as writer alongside artist Humberto Ramos (The Amazing Spider-Man). The new volume follows Marvel’s First Family navigating the aftermath of the One World Under Doom crossover while embarking on time-twisting adventures.
Fantastic Four #1: Exclusive Preview Gallery
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Renumbering the series with the same creative team might seem unusual, but North explains the logic: "With a new Fantastic Four movie releasing, we want to make the comics welcoming for new readers. Superhero titles often intimidate potential fans with high issue numbers—this fresh start removes that barrier."
The most significant change comes with Ramos joining as series artist. North shares: "We’ve been planning this collaboration since meeting at San Diego Comic-Con. Humberto brings incredible energy and creativity—his dynamic art perfectly captures the FF’s spirit."
Ramos’ legendary speed gives North a unique advantage: "For the first time, I can write scripts knowing exactly which artist will bring them to life. This synergy lets us craft stories that play perfectly to Humberto’s strengths."
While maintaining North’s signature standalone-yet-connected storytelling (comparable to Rick and Morty’s structure), the relaunch will emphasize larger narratives. "Each issue remains accessible," North notes, "but we’re turning up the scale—adding more ‘garlic’ to an already great recipe, as Ben might say."
Regarding the FF’s interpersonal dynamics, North elaborates: "Beyond being family, these are people who choose each other daily. That voluntary commitment between friends—between Sue and Johnny’s teammates—makes their bond particularly special."
The series launches directly into One World Under Doom’s aftermath with a major Doctor Doom storyline. "We’re threading the needle—creating new reader accessibility while respecting current events," North explains. "Our first arc sees the FF confronting Doom’s latest scheme through signature scientific innovation."
Regarding Ben Grimm’s transformation in the crossover, North confirms: "We’ll resolve that plotline before the relaunch, keeping our #1 truly new-reader friendly—though some consequences will linger."
Fantastic Four #1 arrives July 9, shortly before the MCU film’s release. Below are details for issue #2:
FANTASTIC FOUR #2
Written by RYAN NORTH
Art and Cover by HUMBERTO RAMOS
Sue Storm finds herself stranded in Earth’s distant future—the last living being on a dead world. Meanwhile, Reed waits in the past for a rescue that seems impossible...unless their profound connection can transcend time itself.
In the present, Doom unveils the secret behind his apparent invincibility—a revelation that makes Emperor Doom truly unstoppable...
On Sale 8/13
Marvel will also release an MCU-connected prequel comic exploring Pedro Pascal’s Reed Richards and his family—a rare direct tie-in to the cinematic universe.
