The Secret Origin of... TARANTULA

Though there were other comics series with similar names before and after, the longest-running Secret Origins comic book was published by DC Comics from April 1986 to August 1990.  It included 50 regular issues, three annuals, and one special edition.  This series of blog posts focuses on the stories that would have, should have, or otherwise follow the spirit of that series.

The initial format of Secret Origins was to devote the odd-numbered issues to heroes from the Golden Age and the even-numbered issues to more recent heroes.  Beginning with Secret Origins #6 (cover dated September 1986), each issue featured one Golden Age origin and one "Modern" origin."  A number of the final issues of All-Star Squadron, which was slated to be retooled as The Young All-Stars, also featured origins of the Golden Age heroes.  Among them was the origin of All-Star Squadron member Tarantula. The premise within the on-going storyline of the series was that the Squadron members were telling their stories to the Tarantula for a book he would write once World War II concluded and in this issue, Tarantula tells his own story.  

The Secret Origin of.., TARANTULA

"The Origin of Tarantula" from All-Star Squadron #66 (February 1987) by Roy Thomas, Alan
Kupperburg, and Tony DeZuniga

Synopsis from The All-Star Companion Vol. 2: While researching a book on so-called "mystery men" and after seeing Sandman in action in his gasmask, best-selling mystery novelist Johnathan Law decides to launch his own crime-fighting career.  Armed with suction-soled shoes and a web-gun, Law creates the persona of Tarantula.  His first solo case (following the tragic encounter with Sandman and Dian Belmont seen in issue #18) pits him against gangster Ace-Deuce.  

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