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Scarlet Spider

Scarlet Spider is a Marvel Comics superhero identity used by several fictional characters, most notably Ben Reilly and Kaine Parker, both clones of Spider-Man (Peter Parker).

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Scarlet Spider is a Marvel Comics superhero alias used by several fictional characters, most notably Ben Reilly and Kaine Parker, both clones of Spider-Man (Peter Parker). The name has appeared across multiple comic book series and in adaptations, with the identity associated with a red-and-blue Spider-Man-style costume.

Publication history

The Scarlet Spider name has been used in several Marvel Comics storylines, especially during and after the Clone Saga. It was the title of three separate comic series, each tied to a different period and user of the identity.

Identity and users

The most prominent Scarlet Spiders are Ben Reilly and Kaine Parker, both genetically related to Peter Parker through cloning. The name has also been used by other characters in alternate continuities, including Felicity Hardy.

Costume and powers

Scarlet Spider is typically depicted with Spider-Man-like powers and equipment, though the exact abilities depend on the specific character using the identity. The costume is usually a red suit with a blue hoodie and web-shooters.

In other media

Versions of Scarlet Spider have appeared beyond comics, including animated adaptations. The identity gained wider mainstream recognition through Spider-Man-related crossover media.

Key facts

  • Scarlet Spider is an alias used by multiple Marvel Comics characters, rather than a single permanently fixed person.
  • Ben Reilly and Kaine Parker are the best-known Scarlet Spiders, and both are clones of Peter Parker.
  • Marvel published three Scarlet Spider comic series: a short 1995 series for Ben Reilly, a 2012–2013 series for Kaine, and a 2017–2018 series again focused on Ben Reilly.
  • The costume is generally a red Spider-Man-style suit with a blue sleeveless hoodie and spider emblem.
  • In some continuity, Felicity Hardy also uses the Scarlet Spider identity.
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Canadian context

Marvel Comics is widely distributed in Canada, and Scarlet Spider is part of the broader Spider-Man franchise that has significant readership and adaptation popularity among Canadian comic and film audiences.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Scarlet Spider?
Scarlet Spider is a Marvel Comics alias used by several characters, most notably Ben Reilly and Kaine Parker.
Is Scarlet Spider the same as Spider-Man?
No. Scarlet Spider is a separate identity, usually used by clones or alternate versions of Peter Parker rather than Peter Parker himself.
How many Scarlet Spider comic series were published?
Marvel published three Scarlet Spider comic series: in 1995, 2012–2013, and 2017–2018.
What is Scarlet Spider’s costume?
The costume is generally a red Spider-Man-style bodysuit with a blue sleeveless hoodie and a large spider emblem.
Did more than one character use the name?
Yes. The name has been used by Ben Reilly, Kaine Parker, and, in some continuity, Felicity Hardy.

References

  1. Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scarlet_Spider
    Supports: Alias used by several fictional characters; main users; costume description; alternate continuity use; adaptation mention
  2. Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scarlet_Spider_(comic_book)
    Supports: Three Scarlet Spider comic series and their publication dates
  3. Marvelhttps://www.marvel.com/comics/guides/720/scarlet-spider-ben-reilly
    Supports: Kaine and Ben Reilly as Scarlet Spider users; redemption context for Kaine
  4. Marvelhttps://www.marvel.com/characters/scarlet-spider-ben-reilly
    Supports: Ben Reilly’s Scarlet Spider identity and costume/name details
  5. Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ben_Reilly
    Supports: Ben Reilly as a clone of Peter Parker and Scarlet Spider identity