From Spawn to Spider-Man: 10 Exciting Todd McFarlane Comics

Posted on March 16, 2026

by Eric S

One of the most controversial and outspoken creators in the history of comics, Todd McFarlane (who turns 65 this week) is also undeniably among its most fascinating and boldest figures. While McFarlane spent his early career jumping from various Marvel and DC comics, he wouldn’t truly become a superstar until taking over as penciller on The Amazing Spider-Man in 1988. He drew Spidey like no one had ever seen before, giving the webslinger huge eyes, wildly contorted poses, and web that was chaotic and had a mind of its own (known as “spaghetti webbing”). When he wanted more creative control, Marvel created a new Spider-Man book for McFarlane to both write and draw (simply titled Spider-Man), the first issue of which became the highest selling comic of all time up to that point. Due to continued tensions with editorial, McFarlane, along with six other popular artists of the day, left Marvel to found Image Comics in 1992, which would be known for comics such as Spawn, Savage Dragon, and Youngblood (and later, hits like The Walking Dead, Invincible, Saga, and Sex Criminals).

The emergence of Todd McFarlane marked a shift toward style over substance in the industry, leading to artists having much more creative control than writers—at least in mainstream superhero comics. His abrasive, almost rock star personality and tendency to push his comics into relatively mature territory (especially in regard to violence) made him a divisive figure during the early ‘90s, despite the huge sales of his books. Today, as president of Image Comics, he is a massive advocate for the comic book medium, and Image has basically set the standard for creator rights and (mostly) ethical business practices among large comic book companies. This is of course in addition to publishing countless bestselling and award-winning comics.

For some, he’s the obnoxious guy who buys recording-breaking homerun baseballs and couldn’t write Spider-Man to save his life, and for others he’s a media innovator and champion of independent publishing. If you’re new to McFarlane’s work, check out some of the comics below (and this documentary) to decide for yourself.

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