Marvel Squashes a Viral Spider-Man Theory With a Controversial (and Creepy) Update

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Warning! This post contains SPOILERS for Ultimate Spider-Man #14Marvel has introduced a twist that debunks a viral theory surrounding Spider-Man’s son, Richard, and Black Cat. The latest issue of Ultimate Spider-Man opens with Richard searching for his missing father when he encounters Black Cat. What starts as a tense confrontation soon shifts to an unexpected connection, prompting both characters to reveal their ages. In doing so, they effectively dispel a problematic fan theory.

Ultimate Spider-Man #14 – written by Jonathan Hickman, and illustrated by Marco Checchetto –confirms that both characters are 16-years-old. Fans had shipped the two together in fan art, primarily due to provocative depictions of Felica on variant covers.

The covers the two characters in suggestive poses, leading some fans to speculate about a mature relationship. These fan theories assumed that Black Cat and Richard Parker are both adults, but now fans know that’s not the case. The covers and fan depictions have come under scrutiny for their inappropriate portrayal of a teenage character, raising concerns about how these characters are depicted in comics.

Marvel’s Confirms Ultimate Peter Parker’s Son & Black Cat Are Both Still Teenagers

Ultimate Spider-Man #14 – Written By Jonathan Hickman; Art By Marco Checchetto; Color By Matt Wilson; Lettering By Corey Petit

The confirmation of Felicia and Richard’s ages in Ultimate Spider-Man realized fans’ worst fears for the pairing, considering the truth is at odds with their more adult character designs; further, several illustrations for the series, particularly the variant cover for Ultimate Spider-Man#11, have depicted Black Cat in a provocative manner, leading fans to speculate that the characters are older than they actually are. Now that their teenage-status has been established, it seems like an inappropriate decision on Marvel’s part to overly-sexualize Black Cat in particular.

Given that both characters are minors, the fact that fans shipped them in an equally adult way is also a troubling sign. Still, despite the controversy, there remains a possibility that Richard and Felicia could develop a romance, as they are closer in age. This subplot could add an interesting layer of drama, as Peter navigates the idea of Richard forming a connection with the daughter of one of his enemies. As a father figure, Peter Parker will likely have strong opinions about his son getting involved with a criminal.

The Future of Richard & Felicia’s Relationship Is Still Up In The Air

Forecasting Ultimate Marvel’s Unexpected New Romance

This could create dramatic tension, but it remains to be seen how this relationship will evolve, given Peter’s strong family values. Ideally, any romantic involvement between them will be age-appropriate, without the problematic overtones suggested by the fan art and variant covers. Ultimate Spider-Man #14 has brought attention to how minors should not be depicted in comic books. The age revelation makes one clear: how Felica is displayed on the variant cover of Ultimate Spider-Man #11 is outdated and harmful, and Spider-Man fans aren’t thrilled about it.

Ultimate Spider-Man #14 is available now from Marvel Comics.

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