The Sean McDowell Show Why Todd McFarlane Denies God (But “Loves” Spider-Man, His Family, and Life)
Sep 9, 2025
Todd McFarlane, a legendary comic-book creator known for co-creating Venom and founding McFarlane Toys, opens up about his journey with faith. He shares his doubts about God, revealing how family and the beauty of comics have shaped his beliefs. The conversation delves into the complex themes of his iconic character, Spawn, touching on freedom, morality, and the problem of evil. Todd also emphasizes the importance of creativity, diversity, and the risks he's taken throughout his remarkable career.
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Comics As Both Comfort And Calling
- Todd McFarlane credits comics with giving him a creative outlet during long, solitary workdays.
- He describes how being inspired by distant artists motivated him to pay that inspiration forward in his own work.
Comics Are A Unique Multirole Medium
- McFarlane defines comics as a unique medium because they combine words and pictures in one authored vision.
- He says that makes the comic-book creator simultaneously director, writer, actor, and special-effects artist.
Respect Inborn Personality Limits
- Know personality limits: you can coach skill but not innate traits like speed or will to care.
- Use that awareness to set realistic expectations for development and coaching.