Marvel Comics have announced that Ben Grimm, aka the Thing, and Alicia Masters will get married in December’s “Fantastic Four” #5, which will also mark the 650th overall issue of the series. Written by Dan Slott, the issue will be illustrated by Aaron Kuder (“All-New Guardians of the Galaxy”), who is taking on art duties for the book’s next arc as well, and guests Adam Hughes (“Before Watchmen: Doctor Manhattan”) and Mike Allred (Slott’s “Silver Surfer” run).
Introduced by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby in “Fantastic Four” #8 (November 1962), the blind sculptress Alicia Masters has been Ben Grimm’s primary love interest through the decades, barring a brief period from 1984 to 1991, when a Skrull impostor named Lyja stole her identity and married Johnny Storm instead. Ben and Alicia got engaged earlier this year in the first issue of Slott’s relaunched “Fantastic Four,” which was penciled by Sara Pichelli.
As the invitation below notes, “Fantastic Four” #5 will be released on December 26.
Press release:
FANTASTIC FOUR #5: The Wedding That’s Been Years In The Making!
“I Doom!”
New York, NY — September 14, 2018 — Gather your friends, find your best clothing, and get ready to party – Marvel is celebrating a wedding that has been years in the making, and it’s the union of Ben Grimm and Alicia Masters! And don’t worry, Marvel fans – this wedding will definitely have the happy couple saying “I do!”
This December, Dan Slott and Esad Ribic joined by Marvel Young Gun Aaron Kuder and superstar artists Adam Hughes and Michael Allred for a special 650th issue spectacular, featuring the untold tale of Alicia and Ben’s courtship! Plus, a bachelor party that only Johnny Storm could throw and many more surprises that it can only mean it’s a wedding celebrated in the Mighty Marvel Manner!
And even though vows will be exchanged without a hitch, it wouldn’t be a Marvel wedding without its fair share of dangers lurking in the background…
“There are a handful of comic titles that demand respect due to their history. Titles that have influenced generations of fans and creators alike…Fantastic Four is definitely one of the biggest,” said Kuder. “It is truly an honor on that basis alone. Throw in the fact that I’m working with legendary creators like Dan, Mike, Adam, and Marte, and that just sets my inner fanboy a-spinning. I’ll be giving this ALL I’ve got.”
“It’s been a long time in coming — more than 55 years! — but Ben and Alicia are finally tying the knot!” said SVP and Executive Editor Tom Brevoort. “And we’ve gone all-out to make this an extra-special event for fans, with the inclusion of not only the terrific Aaron Kuder (who’ll be illustrating the next storyline as well) but also Adam Hughes and Mike Allred for an all-star spectacular bash!”
Comic retailers across the U.S. received their invites earlier this week – will YOU be in attendance? Rings and vows are exchanged this December, when FANTASTIC FOUR #5 hits comic shops!
FANTASTIC FOUR #5
Written by DAN SLOTT
Art by AARON KUDER, ADAM HUGHES and MICHAEL ALLRED
Cover by ESAD RIBIC
On Sale 12/26/18
