One forgotten catchphrase from Spider-Man’s 1960s era has been brought back with new meaning. The Wallcrawler always flourishes in animated form, especially the animated series which helped birth the Spider-Verse. However, one cartoon that can’t be forgotten is the original 1967 animated Spider-Man. It may not have been as beloved as the 1990s cartoon, but it is just as historically important.

Spider-Boy #7 – written by Dan Slott, with art by Paco Medina – brings back an iconic exclamation, popularized by the Webslinger in the ’60s Spider-Man cartoon: “walloping web-snappers!”

It is a small passing reference in the issue, but it is one that celebrates the rich history of Spider-Man, coming at a time when that history isn’t always honored, or explored, unless it’s through a multi-Spidey multiverse angle. This one reference reminds readers it is worth paying homage to Spider-Man’s long legacy on the screen, as well as in the pages of Marvel Comics.

Spider-Boy Resurrects Spider-Man’s “Walloping Web-Snappers! Catchphrase

Spider-Boy #7 – Written By Dan Slott; Art By Paco Medina, Erick Arcinega, & VC’s Joe Caramagna and Cory Petit

Some issues prior to Spider-Boy #7, Spider-Boy and his best friend, Christina, were kidnapped by Madame Monstrosity, who hoped to experiment on them; as result, Christina wound up being turned into a human-pigeon hybrid. This at least allows for her the opportunity to send a carrier pigeon to find Spider-Man, with a note about herself and Bailey’s whereabouts. Now, in Spider-Boy #7, Peter is depicted searching far and wide for the his missing allies – until a chance encounter leads to a moment in which he utters a long-unused catchphrase.

Unfortunately, there is no Bailey Briggs in sight for Peter Parker. What is in sight for the original Spider-Man, however, is a pigeon with a note attached to him. Peter takes notice almost immediately and upon a deeper examination, learns where Bailey and his friend are being stowed away. Before leaving to notify the other Avengers for backup, the news is so shocking that he can’t help but yell out, “walloping web-snappers,” a phrase he hasn’t screamed aloud since he did so on the 60s cartoon.

Peter’s Used Of A Classic Catchphrase In “Spider-Boy” Is A Great Homage

An Effective Throwback

The use of a classic 1960s animated Spider-Man catchphrase in Spider-Boy is a quick, effective nod to the character’s deep roots in popular culture. Author Dan Slott took the perfect opportunity to pay tribute to Spider-Man & His Amazing Friends, in a way that felt appropriate, without overshadowing the story or seeming out of place. In this way, Spider-Boy also serves as a subtle signal to a new generation of readers, who might discover classic Spider-Man content through references like this.