While Deniz Camp and Juan Frigeri’s The Ultimates earned our pick for 2024's Best Comic Series, Marvel’s Fantastic Four came remarkably close to claiming the title. Under Ryan North’s writing, the series has reached new heights—perfect timing as The Fantastic Four: First Steps prepares for its cinematic debut, likely drawing fresh fans to the franchise.
This July brings a relaunched Fantastic Four series, with North continuing as writer alongside artist Humberto Ramos (The Amazing Spider-Man). The storyline explores the aftermath of the One World Under Doom crossover while catapulting Marvel’s First Family through time. IGN spoke with North about the reboot’s accessibility, the shift to Ramos’ dynamic art, and how the series balances family with friendship.
Exclusive: Fantastic Four #1 Preview Gallery
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Marvel’s renumbering strategy aligns with the film’s release, aiming to welcome newcomers. "Comics should always expand their audience," North tells IGN. "A new #1 eliminates perceived barriers—if moviegoers love these characters, they shouldn’t feel daunted by continuity."
The creative shift to Ramos offers consistency. "We’ve planned this for months," says North. "Humberto’s energy and speed let me tailor scripts to his strengths—something rare in monthly comics."
Despite the relaunch, North’s signature approach remains: episodic adventures woven into larger arcs. "Think of it like perfecting a recipe," he explains. "Ben Grimm would say we’re just ‘adding a little garlic for extra zip.’"
The series reframes the team’s bond—not just as family, but as chosen allies. "Johnny and Sue share blood," North notes, "but their unity with Reed and Ben is deliberate. That’s the heart of found family."
One World Under Doom directly influences the relaunch’s debut arc, with the FF confronting Doom’s machinations—including Ben Grimm’s brief liberation from his rocky form. "We’ll resolve that cliffhanger pre-relaunch," North assures, "but its repercussions will ripple forward."
FANTASTIC FOUR #2
Written by RYAN NORTH
Art and Cover by HUMBERTO RAMOS
Stranded in Earth’s distant future, Sue Storm battles solitude as the planet’s final survivor. Meanwhile, Reed waits in the past for a rescue that defies time—unless their bond transcends eras. Back in the present, Doom unveils the secret behind his invincibility, turning every defeat into victory.
On Sale 8/13
In related news, an MCU-tied prequel comic will explore Pedro Pascal’s Reed Richards’ origins—a rarity for Marvel’s cinematic universe.
