Marvel Comics has created thousands of memorable and beloved characters since the company began publishing. The super-powered heroes and villains bring the big bucks, yet their other characters find fame. An individual who has done that is Gwen Stacy, a renowned love interest of Spider-Man. She first appeared as a normal human, though she’s received various variants across the multiverse. One of her most famous takes Peter Parker’s place as a spider-themed superhero. But did you know there’s a Gwen who’s a pink-and-white homage to Deadpool?
The Life of Gwen Stacy
Gwen Stacy debuted in The Amazing Spider-Man #31, published by Marvel in 1965. Portrayed as an icy queen bee, she immediately grew attracted to Peter Parker. He currently wasn’t interested, but the pair eventually grew closer and started dating. Their relationship was often messy and got worse after Gwen’s father’s death. She met her unfortunate end in 1973 at the hands of the Green Goblin. In 1975, Gwen returned as a clone created by her university teacher, Professor Miles Warren.
Of course, as Marvel continued making new stories, Gwen’s story was retold and changed. There are universes where she doesn’t die and marries Peter, and they start a family. Yet the most famous alternate Gwen Stacy version is the one who becomes Spider-Woman. Known as Spider-Gwen among fans, she gains powers from a radioactive spider bite. This version is immensely popular and has appeared in other Spider-Man shows and movies. Comic fans, however, know of another Gwen who’s just as renowned – Gwenpool.
Meet Gwenpool, Marvel’s Ultimate Fan
Gwenpool debuted on an alternate cover of Deadpool’s Secret Secret Wars Wars #2. Her true appearance came in a secondary story of Howard the Duck from 2015. Her next role was in the Gwenpool Holiday Special before getting a solo comic series. But contrary to her name, Gwenpool is NOT an alternate Gwen Stacy or Deadpool. She is Gwendolyn Poole, a high school dropout from the ‘real world.’ She’s also a Marvel Comics superfan with an encyclopedic memory of the fictional universe.
Her adventures begin when she suddenly finds herself in the Marvel reality. Immediately realizing where she is, Gwendolyn visits a costume designer to acquire a hero outfit. The designer accidentally read her name as Gwenpool, thus giving her Deadpool’s design but pink. She quickly became a menace by acting as if her actions presented no consequences. Aside from her knowledge, Gwenpool can interact with the fourth wall like her namesake. She can even alter reality by creating non-existent flashbacks and making them canon.
Meet the New Gwenpool
Gwendolyn Poole is the definitive Gwenpool, but there’s a new one coming. And this time, it is Gwen Stacy with an intriguing twist to her origins. This variant is the original Gwen brought back from the dead. She possesses Weapon-X abilities that she uses to deal out cold-blooded justice. Unlike the original Gwenpool, this version is darker, deadlier, and unhinged. She even appears fascinated with Spider-Man, which could prove quite troublesome.
Luckily, the web-slinger superhero won’t face this unique threat alone. Joining Spider-Man will be the original Gwenpool, who wants to take down her grittier doppelganger. Kate Bishop and Jeff the Shark will guest star, though their roles are unknown. Fans will see this epic team-up adventure in the new Gwenpool comic series. The first entry will be Gwenpool #1 by New York Times bestselling author Cavan Scott. Rising star Stefano Nesi, who worked on Batman #144, will be the comic’s primary artist.
Final Thoughts
I always thought Gwen Stacy was Gwenpool, so discovering otherwise was a massive surprise. Either way, this new Marvel comic sounds quite exciting and intriguing. The idea of the two Gwenpools fighting and interacting is undoubtedly the most prominent attraction. It’s also mind-blowing that this new one is Spider-Man’s famous first love interest. I’d love to read this comic if I can acquire a copy. Gwenpool #1 will arrive at comic stores on May 14 but is available for pre-order.
