February 21, 2024 4 min read

In the pantheon of comic book characters, few have captivated the imagination and dark allure quite like Venom, Marvel's most enigmatic and complex villain-turned-anti-hero. Since his inception, Venom has fascinated fans with his twisted morality, fearsome appearance, and deep connection to Spider-Man. But who created Venom? The answer to this question takes us back to the mid-1980s, a pivotal moment in comic book history when a trio of creative minds birthed a character who would become a cultural icon.

Who Created Venom: The Genesis, A Creative Collaboration

So, who created Venom? The journey of Venom began in the mid-1980s, a time when the comic book industry was ripe for innovation and new characters. The character of Venom is the brainchild of a remarkable collaboration among several talented individuals at Marvel Comics. It was writerDavid Michelinie and artistsTodd McFarlane and Mike Zeck who played pivotal roles in bringing Venom to life. However, the conception of Venom's identity, particularly the symbiote costume, owes its origins to a fan.Randy Schueller, a comic book enthusiast, proposed the idea of a new costume for Spider-Man, which Marvel purchased for a modest sum. This idea sowed the seeds for what would eventually become the Venom symbiote.


Transitioning from concept to reality, the Venom symbiote first made its appearance as Spider-Man’s new black costume in "The Amazing Spider-Man" #252 (1984), thanks to the imaginative work of Mike Zeck. Initially, this sentient alien costume offered Spider-Man enhanced powers, but the relationship soon soured. It was through the creative genius of Michelinie and McFarlane that the symbiote’s next host, Eddie Brock, was introduced, and thus, Venom was born in "The Amazing Spider-Man" #300 (1988).

Eddie Brock: The Birth of Venom

In "The Amazing Spider-Man" #300, Venom emerged in his full, terrifying glory. The symbiote, rejected by Spider-Man, found a new host in Eddie Brock, a disgraced journalist who harbored a deep resentment towards the web-slinger. The fusion of Brock's rage and the symbiote's alien abilities birthed Venom, a character who was both a mirror and a dark reflection ofSpider-Man.


Under Michelinie's pen and McFarlane's dynamic artistry, Venom quickly became more than just a villain—he was a complex character with his own code of ethics, twisted as they might be. Venom's popularity soared, thanks partly to his distinctive look and the depth of his backstory. The character struck a chord with fans who were drawn to his anti-heroic qualities and his relentless pursuit of what he perceived as justice.

The Impact of Venom: A Cultural Icon

Moving past who created Venom, Venom has evolved from a Spider-Man adversary to a standalone character with his own rich lore. His transition from villain to anti-hero reflects broader trends in comics towards more nuanced characterizations and morally complex storytelling. Venom has starred in his own comic book series, appeared in numerous Marvel titles, and crossed over into movies, video games, and merchandise, cementing his place in popular culture.

An image of Venom

Venom's adaptability and enduring popularity speak to the character's complexity and the universal themes of struggle, redemption, and the dual nature of humanity. His story arcs explore themes of addiction, loyalty, and the quest for identity, making him a character that fans can relate to and root for, even at his most monstrous.

The World of Venom Collectibles

The allure of Venom extends beyond the pages of comic books and into therealm of collectibles, where his fearsome visage and iconic status have made him a favorite among collectors. Fromhigh-detail action figures tolimited edition prints, Venom collectibles capture the character's evolution and the artistry of those who created him. For fans, these items are not just merchandise but a tangible connection to the character's rich history and the creative minds behind his inception.

Collectors Row: Your Gateway to Exploring Who Created Venom

For enthusiasts eager to dive deeper into the origins of Venom and the creative minds behind his inception, Collectors Row offers a treasure trove of resources and collectibles. Whether you're a seasoned collector or new to the world of comic book lore, our platform is your ultimate destination for exploring the rich history of Venom and other iconic characters. Our expertly curated selection includes action figures and memorabilia, providing fans with the perfect opportunity to own a piece of comic book history.

At Collectors Row, we pride ourselves on being subject matter experts in the realm of comic book villains and heroes. Our knowledge and passion for the industry make us the go-to source for fans seeking to uncover the stories behind their favorite characters. Whether you're looking to learn more about who created Venom or searching for that elusive collectible to complete your collection, we're here to help.

Discover the Story Behind Who Created Venom With Collectors Row

The story of who created Venom is a fascinating story of collaboration and innovation that has had a lasting impact on the comic book industry and popular culture. As we've explored the origins of this iconic villain, it's clear that the creative minds behind Venom have gifted us with a character that transcends the typical confines of hero and villain narratives.

For those inspired to explore further, Collectors Row invites you to delve into our extensive collection and resources. As the subject matter experts on comic book lore, we offer an unparalleled experience for fans and collectors alike. Visit Collectors Row to embark on your journey through the captivating world of Venom and beyond. Whether you're seeking knowledge or the perfect addition to your collection, 

Collectors Row is your ultimate companion in the quest to uncover Venom's legacy and the story of who created this unforgettable character.