Marvel's Fantastic Four: Perfect Time to Start Reading

While Deniz Camp and Juan Frigeri's The Ultimates secured our pick for Best Comic Book Series or Original Graphic Novel of 2024, Marvel's Fantastic Four series came remarkably close to claiming the top spot. Writer Ryan North and his creative team have elevated the series to its strongest position in years. With The Fantastic Four: First Steps hitting theaters soon, Marvel aims to expand its audience dramatically this summer.

A Fresh Start Without Starting Over

Marvel will relaunch Fantastic Four in July, retaining North's exceptional writing while welcoming acclaimed artist Humberto Ramos (The Amazing Spider-Man) to the team. This exciting new creative pairing will guide Marvel's First Family through the aftermath of the One World Under Doom crossover, thrusting them into thrilling temporal adventures.

In an exclusive email interview with IGN, North explained why this relaunch offers the perfect entry point for new readers while continuing the quality storytelling existing fans expect. Below, enjoy a special preview of the first issue's artwork before diving into North's insights about exploring the FF as both friends and family.

Fantastic Four #1: Exclusive Preview

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Why Relaunch Now?

The timing isn't coincidental - Marvel wants to capitalize on the upcoming film's buzz. North sees this as crucial for making comics accessible: "There are millions who think comics aren't for them. A new #1 removes barriers for moviegoers wanting to explore these fantastic characters further."

The Ramos Effect

North expresses enthusiasm about collaborating with Ramos: "We've been planning this since last year's Comic-Con. His creative energy and artistic speed let me tailor scripts specifically to his strengths." Unlike previous volumes with rotating artists, this consistency allows for tighter visual storytelling.

Storytelling Approach

While maintaining his signature standalone-issue-with-larger-arcs format ("like adding garlic to a great recipe"), North promises bigger stories: "I'm turning up the dial on the craziness while keeping each issue satisfying on its own."

Friends vs. Family Dynamic

"It's about chosen bonds," North explains. "Only Sue and Johnny share blood - the others actively choose this family. That voluntary commitment makes their relationships particularly special."

Tackling One World Under Doom

The new series will address the crossover events head-on: "Our first arc features Doom and lets the FF fix his mess through radical science." Regarding Ben Grimm's cured condition, North assures readers: "We'll resolve that thread conclusively before the relaunch."

Release Details

Fantastic Four #1 drops July 9, perfectly timed before The Fantastic Four: First Steps theatrical release. Below, check out details for issue #2:

FANTASTIC FOUR #2

Written by RYAN NORTH

Art and Cover by HUMBERTO RAMOS

Sue Storm finds herself stranded at Earth's end-time as the planet's last survivor. As she struggles to return, Reed waits hopelessly in the past - unless their extraordinary bond can transcend time itself... Meanwhile, Doom reveals the shocking secret behind his invincibility.

On Sale 8/13

In related news, Marvel will release an MCU-connected prequel comic exploring Pedro Pascal's Reed Richards and his family origins - a rare direct tie-in to the cinematic universe.