John Romita Jr. Celebrates Spider-Man’s Return to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
Marvel fans got a special surprise yesterday when Spider-Man triumphantly returned to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
As New York’s resident superhero, Peter Parker has long been a staple of the iconic Thanksgiving parade.
Originally debuting in 1987, John Romita Sr., Marvel art director and former Amazing Spider-Man artist, designed the original Spider-Man balloon. For 11 years, Spidey would swing high above New York City on Thanksgiving.
Photo: Mario Super Kart on YouTube
After retiring from the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in 1998, Spider-Man returned in 2009. This new version of the iconic balloon continued to appear in the parade until 2011, when Peter Parker was once again returned.
John Romita Jr. Celebrates Spider-Man’s Return
In yesterday’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, Spider-Man once again returned to the procession. The new balloon, inspired by John Romita’s original design, was used to promote the upcoming Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man.
Marvel fans were understandably thrilled.
Photo: Macy’s (via Polygon).
Following Spidey’s big return, John Romita Jr. took to social media to celebrate.
“It was amazing to see my father’s work displayed as a balloon in the Macy’s Day parade!” he wrote on Instagram. Hearing his name mentioned during the show was an honor to him and our family. I Hope everyone has an amazing Thanksgiving day today!”
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As the next great Spider-Man adventure prepares to debut on Disney+ in January, it is great to see Marvel honor the creative forces that have written and illustrated Peter Parker’s story.
Photo: Marvel
Hopefully, Spidey will continue to be a part of Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade for years to come.
