Spider-Man’s Most Hated Enemy Dies a Hero in Marvel Surprise

by

A central theme in superhero stories is the possibility of redemption – the idea that people can change and become better. Many heroes try to help others as a way to atone for mistakes they’ve made in the past. A prime example is Peter Parker, who uses his powers to make amends for a past inaction that resulted in his Uncle Ben’s death. Recently, a character once considered one of the most villainous in the Spider-Man comics died while performing a heroic act, offering a chance at redemption.

In Venom #256, written by Al Ewing and illustrated by Carlos Gomez, the ‘Death Spiral’ storyline continues. The issue teams up Spider-Man, Venom, and Carnage in a surprising partnership to stop a dangerous killer named Torment. Things are extra complicated because Mary Jane Watson is currently the host for Venom, while Eddie Brock is bonded with Carnage – and none of them are thrilled about the arrangement!

Torment hunts people based on their family history, creating a chain of tragedy that links relatives across generations. Guided by Carnage (acting secretly), Torment focused on the Brock, Watson, and Parker families. This led him to Eddie Brock’s son, Dylan, who was living with Mary Jane Watson and her boyfriend at the time, Paul Rabin.

Spider-Man fans generally dislike Paul. This is partly because he was introduced as a threat to Peter Parker and Mary Jane Watson’s relationship, and partly because Marvel seemed overly eager to make him a sympathetic character. Adding to this, Paul was the one who led to MJ gaining superpowers through dangerous “Jackpot” technology, which could also kill her. For a long time, many comic book readers have wanted Paul to disappear, and in issue #256 of Venom, that finally happens.

How Spider-Man’s Paul died a heroic death

Paul was first stabbed when he tried to prevent Torment from breaking into his home. But Torment wasn’t interested in killing him, as he was solely focused on his own plans involving Dylan Brock. Dylan was prepared to fight back with technology from Jackpot, but Paul urged him to escape. Paul then appealed to Torment, arguing that his willingness to sacrifice himself for Dylan made them kindred spirits. This distraction gave Spider-Man, Venom, and Carnage the time they needed to reach Torment.

Though Paul died a hero, only Spider-Man seems to be grieving. Venom and Mary Jane are preoccupied with locating Dylan, and Eddie and Carnage are still determined to kill Torment. Even Peter struggles to say anything positive about Paul, simply acknowledging he was a person who tried his best. Sadly, Paul died believing his life had no meaning – a feeling many comic book readers might understand.

Venom #256 is now available at comic shops everywhere.

Read More

2026-04-01 16:08