IDW's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Finally Gets the Brothers Back Together – IGN Fan Fest 2025

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 about the future of their respective books. We delved into the evolution of their stories, IDW's overarching vision for the TMNT line, 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 a highly successful relaunched flagship series selling approximately 300,000 copies and ranking among the top-selling comics of 2024, begs the question: what's the guiding principle? Aaron reveals 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 explains. "Last year's 40th anniversary was a reminder of my first exposure to these characters—that original black and white comic. I wanted to recapture that grittiness, the double-page spreads, the action of grimy turtles battling ninjas in New York City alleyways."

He continues, "We aimed for that spirit while telling a new story, moving these characters forward after 150 issues. They've grown, reached a turning point, heading in different directions. The story explores how they reunite and become the heroes they need to be."

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 fresh starts in major franchises. Aaron reflects, "I just try to create stories that excite me. When I got the call about the Turtles, I knew I could do something cool. The incredible artists on the first six issues contributed immensely. It's a story for longtime fans and newcomers alike."

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #11 - Exclusive Preview Gallery

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A TMNT Family Reunion

Aaron's run began with the Turtles scattered globally: Raphael imprisoned, Michelangelo a TV star in Japan, Leonardo a brooding monk, and Donatello in a precarious situation. Their eventual reunion in New York City is a pivotal moment. Aaron comments on the satisfaction of bringing them back together, even amidst their strained relationships.

"The first four issues were fun, showcasing each brother's unique struggles. But the real fun begins with their reunion. Things aren't great; they're rubbing each other the wrong way. None of them want to be there. In issue #6, they return to a weaponized New York City, facing a new Foot Clan villain. They're hated, and they can barely stand each other. How will they overcome these odds?"

Alongside the reunion, issue #6 introduces Juan Ferreyra as the new regular artist, bringing a consistent visual style. Aaron expresses his excitement about Ferreyra's work, stating, "Juan's work has been killer. He's making the book his own."

Merging the TMNT and Naruto Universes

Goellner and artist Hendry Prasetya masterfully blend the TMNT and Naruto universes. The first two issues introduce a shared world where the Turtles and the Uzumaki Clan finally meet. Goellner praises Prasetya's redesigns, stating, "I couldn't be happier. The redesigns are unreal. I hope they get made into toys!"

The crossover's appeal lies in the character interactions. Goellner highlights his favorite pairings, mentioning Kakashi's relatable struggles as a mentor figure and the dynamic between Raphael and Sakura. He teases exciting surprises as the conflict escalates in issue #3.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto #3 - Exclusive Preview Gallery

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Goellner reveals a key element of the crossover: a specific TMNT villain requested by Masashi Kishimoto himself, promising a thrilling encounter.

*Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #7* released on February 26th, and *Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto #3* on March 26th. 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.