The Crossover That Could Have Been: Tom Brevoort’s Lingering Regret and the Evolution of Comic Universes
What if the Marvel and DC universes had fully swapped places? It’s a question that still haunts Tom Brevoort, Marvel’s Executive Editor and SVP, nearly two decades after the 2003 JLA/Avengers crossover. Personally, I think this idea—a full universe swap—is one of those bold, high-concept pitches that sounds incredible on paper but crumbles under the weight of execution. What makes this particularly fascinating is how it reveals the challenges of blending two iconic universes while maintaining their distinct identities.
The Bold Idea That Never Was
Brevoort’s regret centers on a scrapped subplot for JLA/Avengers #3, where Marvel heroes would find themselves in the DC universe, and vice versa. On the surface, it’s a fan’s dream: Spider-Man swinging through Gotham, Batman brooding in the shadows of Asgard. But as Brevoort explains, the reality wasn’t so simple. By 2003, Marvel and DC had converged in tone, style, and storytelling to the point where the swap felt more like a gimmick than a revelation.
From my perspective, this highlights a broader trend in comics: the gradual homogenization of once-distinct universes. In the 1960s, Marvel’s gritty, street-level realism stood in stark contrast to DC’s larger-than-life, godlike heroes. But over time, as both publishers chased similar audiences and storytelling trends, those differences blurred. What this really suggests is that the universe swap wasn’t just a creative misstep—it was a symptom of a larger industry shift.
The Battle of Fan Expectations
One thing that immediately stands out is Brevoort’s candid reflection on fan demands, particularly the infamous Superman vs. Thor fight. Fans wanted a definitive winner, no ties, no ambiguity. And when Superman emerged victorious, Thor fans erupted in outrage. What many people don’t realize is how this mirrors a broader tension in comics: the clash between creative vision and fan service.
If you take a step back and think about it, this isn’t just about superheroes throwing punches. It’s about the power dynamics between creators and their audience. Brevoort’s wry comment about his “greatest crime” in comics—letting Superman beat Thor—speaks volumes about the pressure to satisfy vocal fanbases. In my opinion, this tension is one of the most interesting aspects of modern comics culture.
The Ripple Effects of Creative Compromise
The scrapped universe swap wasn’t the only casualty of the JLA/Avengers crossover. Brevoort’s counterpart at DC, Dan Raspler, raised concerns about another element in the issue, leading to further changes. This raises a deeper question: how much does behind-the-scenes collaboration (or conflict) shape the stories we love?
A detail that I find especially interesting is how these compromises often go unnoticed by readers. The final product is beloved, with fans praising its ambitious scope and iconic moments. But for Brevoort, the lingering regret over that one plot mechanism is a reminder of what could have been. It’s a testament to the creative process—messy, collaborative, and often frustrating.
The Future of Crossovers: Lessons Learned
As Marvel and DC eye future team-ups, like the upcoming Spider-Man/Superman and the potential Justice League/Avengers 25th anniversary in 2028, Brevoort’s regret feels like a cautionary tale. Crossovers aren’t just about throwing characters together; they’re about finding meaningful ways to explore their worlds.
Personally, I think the key to successful crossovers lies in embracing what makes each universe unique rather than forcing them to coexist. The JLA/Avengers saga reminds us that sometimes, less is more. And maybe, just maybe, Brevoort will get his chance to revisit that universe swap idea—this time with a fresh perspective.
Final Thoughts: The Art of Letting Go
What this entire saga really suggests is that even the most seasoned creators have regrets. Brevoort’s lingering frustration over a plot point that “drives [him] nuts” is a humbling reminder of the passion and perfectionism that drive the comic industry.
In the end, JLA/Avengers remains a high-water mark for inter-company crossovers, a testament to what’s possible when two giants collaborate. But it’s also a story about the ideas that never made it to the page—and the lessons they leave behind. As a fan and a commentator, I can’t help but wonder: what other bold ideas are sitting in editors’ drawers, waiting for their moment to shine?
