Who created Spider-Man?
Spider-Man was created by writer Stan Lee and artist Steve Ditko for Marvel Comics. He first appeared in Amazing Fantasy #15 in August 1962.
Spider-Man is Peter Parker, a teenager from Queens, New York, who gains spider-like powers after being bitten by a radioactive spider. He can climb walls, has super strength and agility and senses danger with his spider-sense. In the original comics, he builds his own web-shooters. After his Uncle Ben is killed, he learns that with great power there must also come great responsibility.
Spider-Man was unusual because he was a teenager with everyday problems, such as money worries, homework and relationships, rather than a sidekick to an adult hero. Ditko designed his iconic costume, with a full face mask, which helped readers imagine anyone could be under it.
On screen
Spider-Man has been played by Tobey Maguire, Andrew Garfield and Tom Holland in live-action films. The animated film Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse won the Oscar for Best Animated Feature in 2019. Spider-Man: Brand New Day, starring Tom Holland, was released in 2026.
Did You Know?
Marvel's publisher almost rejected Spider-Man, thinking people hated spiders and that a teenager could not be a hero. Amazing Fantasy #15 was due to be the comic's final issue anyway.