IDW has been ambitiously expanding the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) franchise. In 2024, they relaunched the flagship TMNT comic with writer Jason Aaron at the helm, launched a sequel to the best-selling TMNT: The Last Ronin, and introduced a ninja-themed crossover with TMNT x Naruto. Now, in 2025, the main TMNT series welcomes a new regular artist and a fresh status quo, with the four Turtles reuniting in New York City, though not on the best of terms.
During IGN Fan Fest 2025, we spoke with Jason Aaron and TMNT x Naruto writer Caleb Goellner about the future of their respective series. We delved into how these stories evolve, the overarching mission for the TMNT line, and the possibility of the Turtles reconciling.
The Mission Statement of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
IDW has launched several new TMNT series recently, including the flagship monthly series. The new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1 was a massive hit, selling approximately 300,000 copies and ranking among the top-selling comics of 2024. We asked Jason Aaron about the guiding vision for the TMNT line, to which he responded that the goal is to reconnect with the essence of the original Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird TMNT comics from the Mirage days.
"For me, on this book, the guiding principle was just looking back at that original series, the original Mirage Studios book," Aaron shared with IGN. "Last year marked the 40th anniversary of that series, which introduced the Turtles. My first experience with these characters was through that original black and white Mirage Studios book, before the movies or cartoons. I wanted to recapture the grittiness and action-packed scenes of those grimy turtles fighting ninjas in New York City alleyways."
Aaron further elaborated, "We aimed to retain that spirit while telling a new story that moves the characters forward, reflecting their growth over the previous 150 issues of the IDW series. They've matured and reached a turning point, heading in different directions yet trying to reunite as the heroes they once were, to face their latest challenge."
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #11 - Exclusive Preview Gallery
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TMNT #1's success aligns with other major comic successes like Marvel’s Ultimate Universe line, DC’s Absolute line, and Skybound’s Energon Universe. This suggests a demand for reboots and streamlined narratives in major franchises, providing accessible entry points for readers. Aaron reflected on this trend, "It certainly seems like it after last year, and I'm thrilled to have been part of it. My focus remains on crafting stories that excite me, and when I got the call to work on Turtles, I knew I could do something special."
Aaron praised the collaboration with various artists over the first six issues, saying, "I knew we were creating something exciting, both for long-time Turtles fans and newcomers alike."
A TMNT Family Reunion
Aaron's TMNT run began with an unconventional status quo, with the Turtles scattered globally. By the end of the initial storyline, they reunite in New York City, though tensions run high. "The first four issues were thrilling to write, showcasing each Turtle in unique global situations," Aaron remarked. "The real fun begins when they're together, seeing how they interact, though currently, they're not thrilled to be reunited."
Aaron highlighted the challenges they face, "None of them want to be there, and they clash. Upon returning to New York, they find the city weaponized against them by a new Foot Clan villain, making them the most despised figures in the city. They must overcome their differences to survive."
Starting with issue #6, Juan Ferreyra became the new regular artist, bringing a consistent visual style to the series. Aaron expressed his enthusiasm, "Juan's work on this series is phenomenal. He's perfectly suited to draw the Turtles in action, navigating the gritty streets of Manhattan."
Merging the TMNT and Naruto Universes
Combining TMNT with Naruto is a bold move, and Caleb Goellner, along with artist Hendry Prasetya, has successfully crafted this crossover. The series introduces a world where the Turtles and the Uzumaki Clan coexist, with their first encounter sparking intriguing dynamics. Goellner praised Prasetya's redesigns, "I'm thrilled with the Turtles' new look, which seamlessly integrates them into the Naruto universe."
Goellner enjoys exploring character interactions, particularly with Kakashi, whose perspective as a mentor resonates with him as a parent. "I love seeing Kakashi manage the kids, much like Splinter does, though Kakashi's internal struggles are relatable," he said. He also highlighted the dynamic between Raphael and Sakura, both key players in their respective teams.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto #3 - Exclusive Preview Gallery
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Goellner teased upcoming developments as the ninja clans head to Big Apple Village, mentioning a specific TMNT villain requested by Naruto creator Masashi Kishimoto. "The response to the series has been overwhelmingly positive, and I'm excited for what's coming next," he said.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #7 was released on February 26, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto #3 is set for release on March 26. Additionally, don't miss IGN's exclusive preview of the final chapter of TMNT: The Last Ronin II - Re-Evolution.
As part of IGN Fan Fest 2025, we also got an early look at IDW's new Godzilla shared universe and a sneak peek of an upcoming Sonic the Hedgehog storyline.
