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 a thrilling *TMNT x Naruto* crossover. Now, in 2025, the main TMNT series boasts a new regular artist and a compelling new status quo: the Turtles are reunited, but their brotherhood is fractured.
IGN Fan Fest 2025 provided an opportunity to speak with Aaron and *TMNT x Naruto* writer Caleb Goellner, delving into the future of their respective books. We explored the overarching vision for the TMNT line, the evolving narratives, 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 releases, 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 the franchise's guiding vision. Aaron explains that the focus is a return to the gritty roots of the original Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird Mirage Studios comics.
“My guiding principle was looking back at the original Mirage Studios series,” Aaron shared with IGN. “Last year marked the 40th anniversary, and that original black and white series was my introduction to these characters. I wanted to recapture that grittiness, the double-page spreads, the action—grimy turtles battling ninjas in New York City alleyways.”
He continued, “We aimed for that spirit, but also to tell a new story, moving the characters forward after 150 issues. It’s about them growing up, reaching a turning point, going in different directions, and ultimately figuring out how to reunite and become the heroes they need to be.”
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 strong audience demand for streamlined, accessible entries into major franchises. Aaron reflects on this:
“After last year, it certainly seems that way. I'm happy to have been involved, but I don't really think about that. I sit down, make up stories that excite me. When I got the call about the Turtles—a job I never imagined—I was thrilled. I knew I could do something cool.”
He adds, “Working with incredible artists on the first six issues, we created a book that excited me. It’s a story for long-time fans and newcomers alike, and thankfully, that excitement seems to have resonated.”
A TMNT Family Reunion
Aaron’s TMNT run began with the Turtles scattered globally. Raph was imprisoned, Mikey a TV star in Japan, Leo a brooding monk, and Don… well, Don was in the worst shape. The first storyline culminated in their reunion in New York City. Aaron discusses the satisfaction (and challenges) of bringing the brothers back together:
“Those first four issues were fun, seeing each brother in different situations. But the real fun is once they’re together, seeing their interactions. Things aren't great; they’re not reliving old times; they're rubbing each other the wrong way.”
Aaron continues, “None of them want to be there; the pieces don't fit. In issue #6, they return to a New York City weaponized against them by a new Foot Clan villain. They’re the most hated in the Five (or Six) Boroughs, including Mutant Town. The odds are stacked against them, and they can’t stand each other. How will they win?”
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 come on with issue #6 was perfect. Even following artistic titans, he’s doing incredible work. He’s born to draw this kind of Turtle story.”
Merging the TMNT and Naruto Universes
Goellner and artist Hendry Prasetya masterfully combined TMNT and Naruto. The first two issues introduce a shared universe where the Turtles and the Uzumaki Clan are only now meeting. Goellner credits Prasetya’s redesigns for seamlessly integrating the Turtles into the Naruto universe.
“I couldn’t be happier,” Goellner told IGN. “I had minimal suggestions. I can’t take credit for the amazing redesigns. I hope they get made into toys!”
The crossover’s appeal lies in the character interactions. Goellner shares his favorite pairings:
“My job is to give every character a moment. I love seeing 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 upcoming events, focusing on a major TMNT villain specifically requested by Masashi Kishimoto:
“He requested a specific villain for the Naruto characters to fight. I won’t say who, but everyone will be stoked. The vibe on the book is super positive, and I appreciate everyone joining us on this journey.”
*Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #7* released February 26th, and *Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto #3* on March 26th. Also, 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.
