Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Writer Gene Luen Yang Details New Villains, His Favorite Turtle

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Gene Luen Yang, the writer in question, is sharing tantalizing insights about his forthcoming work on the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles series. The comic, published by IDW Publishing and currently overseen by Jason Aaron and artist Juan Ferreyra, has been testing the Heroes in a Half-Shell to their utmost limits. As they prepare to conclude their successful run, fans eagerly anticipate what Gene Luen Yang and artist Freddie E. Williams II have in store for the Turtles. Although we’re still several months away from the transition, Yang is giving hints about what the TMNT team is working on – including some new adversaries.

The team at ComicBook had a chat with Gene Luen Yang, the new writer for Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, during San Diego Comic-Con. Yang shared insights on how writing for the TMNT differs from his previous works like Superman and Shang-Chi. He also revealed his favorite turtle, discussed taking over from Jason Aaron, and hinted at which storylines from his run will continue, among other topics.

As a devoted cinema enthusiast, I’d say it’s truly an honor to be recognized within the comic book realm, having penned tales for icons like Superman and Shang-Chi. Yet, the Ninja Turtles stand out in their own unique way. Unlike my previous heroes who embody ideals of truth, justice, or martial arts mastery, the Turtles are a band of brothers bound by loyalty and camaraderie. They’re not just superheroes; they’re everyday kids living extraordinary lives, which makes them relatable and endearing to readers.

In this new era of Ninja Turtles, my approach is to infuse their world with modern sensibilities while maintaining the essence that has endeared them to fans for decades. I aim to create stories that resonate, entertain, and challenge the status quo, all while keeping the humor, action, and heart that defines these iconic characters. It’s a thrilling opportunity to contribute to this timeless franchise, and I can’t wait to see what adventures await!

Gene Yang holds a deep affection for the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. He recalls watching the cartoon with his brother on TV as kids, playing with action figures, and discovering the original Eastman-Laird black and white comics, which left him in awe due to their gritty realism and creative imagination. The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles seem to defy genre classification, as they explore space, battle demons, and engage in various adventures, yet somehow it all fits together seamlessly.

Are you prepared for how many people are going to ask you who your favorite Ninja Turtle is?

In my perspective, I’d say I’m particularly fond of Donatello – the contemplative one among them all. What strikes me as cool is that while everyone else wields metal weapons, he stands out with his simple yet effective wooden staff. It’s impressive how he manages to hold his own!

Was there anything specific from Jason Aaron’s series that you wished to continue or expand upon starting with issue 13, or did you approach the series with a completely new perspective and vision right from the beginning?

Indeed! I must admit, Jason Aaron’s work on the Turtles is nothing short of captivating for me. Frankly, I find it a bit daunting to follow in his footsteps, given my deep admiration for his past achievements. What particularly resonates with me is how he skillfully rebuilt the brotherhood among the Turtles at the start of his tenure, as they were initially apart and, by the end, had reunited strongly. As we embark on issue #13, they remain bonded in this way. We’re making sure to highlight their unity in this installment, and it’s a wonderful feeling to witness them together again.

In simpler terms, he’s working on a significant plot point that will be crucial to the continuation of our story. If all goes well, it should satisfy fans and feel like a fitting extension of his previous work.

What’s it been like working with Freddie Williams on this? 

As a devoted admirer, I must say, his work is simply extraordinary! He’s got this unique knack for combining whimsical, cartoon-like elements with a profound emotional depth. It’s this blend that allows him to tackle both lighthearted, action-packed scenes and the more serious moments with equal finesse. His crossover projects are particularly noteworthy and what I adore most about his work. I eagerly anticipate a script that will capture this energetic balance, with a playful exterior concealing a heart of deep emotion.

Could you confirm if there’s a new character joining the team, potentially an antagonist? If so, could you share some details about them and how challenging they might be for the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles?

As a cinema enthusiast, I can’t help but appreciate the richness and intrigue of a comic book series’ Rogues Gallery. It’s not just about the heroes; the villains are equally significant, offering a diverse range that spans from traditional karate masters to futuristic space-agers. Even a prehistoric Triceratops villain manages to impress!

Now, we’re aiming to add another layer to this complexity. We’re introducing a masked assassin who straddles the line between good and evil. The mystery revolves around his true nature: is he friend or foe? This enigma promises to keep us guessing and deepen the narrative.

Were there any specific characters from the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles universe that you were particularly eager to work with when you started out?

I believe it’s the quartet of Turtles that I find particularly appealing. What I appreciate most, as Jason has designed, is the dynamic among them, which provides ample opportunity for witty exchanges between them. I enjoy how Leo annoys Raphael at times. I also appreciate the consistent cheerfulness of Michelangelo. Lastly, I’m fond of Donatello’s quiet introspection before he shares his insights or narrates his experiences.

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2025-08-11 16:48