IDW's ambitious approach to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles franchise continues to impress. 2024 saw the relaunch of the flagship TMNT comic under Jason Aaron, the sequel to the best-selling TMNT: The Last Ronin, and the exciting TMNT x Naruto crossover. Now, in 2025, the main TMNT series boasts a new regular artist and a fresh status quo: the Turtles are reunited, but their relationships are far from harmonious.
IGN Fan Fest 2025 provided an opportunity to chat with Aaron and TMNT x Naruto writer Caleb Goellner, delving into the future of their respective books. We explored the evolving narratives, IDW's overall TMNT vision, and the long-awaited reconciliation (or lack thereof) between Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello, and Michelangelo.
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Mission Statement
IDW's recent flurry of TMNT series launches, including the highly successful Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1 (selling approximately 300,000 copies and ranking among the top-selling comics of 2024), prompted questions about their overarching vision. Aaron reveals a focus on revisiting the classic Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird Mirage Studios comics:
“My guiding principle was looking back at the original Mirage Studios series,” Aaron explains. “Last year marked its 40th anniversary, and that original black and white book was my introduction to these characters. I aimed to recapture that grittiness, the double-page spreads, and the action scenes of gritty turtles battling ninjas in New York City alleys.”
He continues, “We aimed for that spirit, but also to tell a new story, moving the characters forward after 150 issues. We explore how they've grown, reached a turning point, and are now navigating diverging paths, ultimately needing to reunite and become the heroes they need to be to win this fight.”
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #11 - Exclusive Preview Gallery
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The success of TMNT #1, alongside other reboots like Marvel's Ultimate Universe, DC's Absolute line, and Skybound's Energon Universe, suggests a significant audience demand for fresh starts. Aaron reflects:
“Last year certainly indicated that, and I'm happy to have been involved. I focus on creating stories that excite me. When I got the call about the Turtles—a job I never anticipated—I knew I could do something cool.”
He adds, “Working with incredible artists on the first six issues created a book that thrilled me. It's a story for longtime fans and newcomers alike, and thankfully, that excitement resonated with others.”
A TMNT Family Reunion
Aaron's TMNT run began with the Turtles scattered globally. Raphael is imprisoned, Michelangelo is a TV star in Japan, Leonardo is a brooding monk, and Donatello is in the worst state. The first storyline culminates in their reunion in New York City. Aaron discusses the satisfaction of bringing the brothers back together, even amidst their strained relationships:
“Those first four issues were fun, showcasing each brother in a different global situation. But the real fun is their interactions once reunited. Things aren't great; they're not reliving old times—they're clashing.”
Aaron continues, “None of them want to be there, their dynamic is broken. In issue #6, they return to a weaponized New York City, becoming the most hated entities. The odds are stacked against them, and they can barely tolerate each other. How will they overcome this?”
Beyond the reunion, issue #6 introduces Juan Ferreyra as the new regular artist, providing a consistent visual style. Aaron expresses his enthusiasm for Ferreyra's work:
“Using different artists for the first five issues made sense, focusing on individual Turtles and the villain. But having Juan join with issue #6 was perfect. His work is incredible; he's born to draw this kind of Turtle story. He’s making the book his own.”
Merging the TMNT and Naruto Universes
Goellner and artist Hendry Prasetya masterfully combine the TMNT and Naruto universes. The first two issues of TMNT x Naruto introduce a shared world where the Turtles and the Uzumaki Clan are only now meeting. Goellner credits Prasetya's redesigns of the Turtles for their seamless integration into the Naruto universe:
“I couldn't be happier. I had minimal suggestions. I can't take credit for the amazing redesigns. I hope they become toys!”
The crossover's appeal lies in the character interactions. Goellner shares his favorite pairings:
“My job is to ensure all characters have moments together. I love Kakashi with anyone—as a dad, he’s my viewpoint character. I also love Splinter, but Kakashi’s internal face-palming is hilarious. I also like Raph and Sakura—the tanks of their teams.”
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto #3 - Exclusive Preview Gallery
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Goellner teases the series' direction as the ninja clans arrive in Big Apple Village, highlighting a specific TMNT villain requested by Masashi Kishimoto:
“Kishimoto requested a specific villain for the Naruto characters to fight. I won't say who, but it'll be exciting. The vibe on the book is super positive.”
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #7 released February 26th, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto #3 releases March 26th. Check out IGN’s exclusive preview of the final chapter of TMNT: The Last Ronin II - Re-Evolution, IDW's new Godzilla shared universe, and a sneak peek of an upcoming Sonic the Hedgehog storyline.
