Controversy erupted this week when Campbell’s cover was revealed, prompting Internet outrage at what was characterized as overly-sexualized depiction of 15-year-old heroine Riri Williams. It echoed similar reactions to a variant cover for Spider-Woman #1 done by artist Milo Manara in 2014 (see “'Spider-Woman' Manara Variant Spurs Controversy”). Teresa Justino sums up the complaint on The Mary Sue:
“Plenty of fans are excited that a female hero of color is getting her own book. That part is thrilling! Not so thrilling? The fact that, despite the character being 15-years-old, Marvel has approved several variant covers that have been drawn by artists that have seemingly never seen an actual 15-year-old girl before. Either that, or they would rather eschew artistic integrity in favor of being able to attach whatever body they like to a pretty face.”
When Marvel and Midtown Comics pulled the cover from solicitations today, Campbell responded on Twitter: “The decision today is unfortunate. Simply attempted to draw a young, sassy coming of age young woman. But I don't blame Midtown or Marvel.”
The second Midtown Comics exclusive, featuring RiRi in her full armor is still available for preorder.Marvel also posted new concept art on Twitter from series artist Stefano Caselli showing how the character will appear in Invincible Iron Man (see gallery below).
Invincible Iron Man #1 launches on November 9.