TMNT Changes Splinter’s Role in the Franchise in a Disturbingly Dark Manner

Warning: Spoilers for Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #6 Ahead!

In the latest developments of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles saga, the legacy of Master Splinter remains alive, despite his apparent death in the ongoing storyline. The current series, which kicked off last year, depicts the Turtles—Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello, and Michelangelo—navigating their challenges while reunited after what seemed to be an eternal separation induced by the Foot Clan’s latest schemes. Intriguingly, there are hints that Splinter may make a triumphant return, possibly from beyond the grave.

The Potential Return of Splinter in IDW’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #6 by Jason Aaron and Juan Ferreyra

Comic panels of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles in a sewer, bickering.

In Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #6, crafted by Jason Aaron and illustrated by Juan Ferreyra, the brothers reconvene but not without contention. Their reunion is fraught with tension, particularly between Raph and Mike, who waste no time in engaging in their characteristic bickering.

Compounding their troubles, Donatello has returned in a weakened state due to a time-warping magical incident, leaving him not only physically emaciated but also mentally fractured. He is isolated in his own delusions, convinced that the dead rat he has taken under his wing is a reincarnation of Splinter.

Comic panels showing Donatello speaking to a rat he mistakenly believes is Splinter.

Respecting Donnie’s fragile mindset, his siblings initially indulge his fantasy. However, when frustration peaks, Mike bluntly tells him the harsh truth: the rat is just an ordinary rodent. This moment leads to a pivotal revelation as Donatello admits to hearing a mysterious voice, begging the question of who really is communicating with him—could it be Splinter, or might it be a more sinister entity?

What adds layers to this narrative is the intriguing notion that the narrative voice throughout the issue might indeed be that of Splinter, casting doubt over the nature of his involvement from beyond the grave.

“I pray you will hear my voice, from beyond the veil between worlds, ” Splinter conveys to his sons, hinting at the imminent danger facing New York City.

With this revelation, fans are left speculating whether Donnie’s interactions are genuine connections to their father or if there is something darker at play with a voice masquerading as Splinter.

Unraveling the Identity of the Voice in Donatello’s Mind

Highlights from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #4 by Jason Aaron and Chris Burnham

Comic panels where Donatello mistakenly converses with a rat he believes to be Master Splinter.

Master Splinter’s death has left a significant mark on the narrative since Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #100, penned by noted creators Kevin Eastman and Tom Waltz, among others. As the new series adopts a “back to basics”philosophy, it showcases classic TMNT elements while introducing fresh dynamics. Observers are keenly tracking how the lore of Splinter will weave into the current storyline. The voice echoing in Donatello’s mind could point to a resurrection of Splinter in future installments—or it might deepen the mystery facing the brothers.

Televised interest in the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles franchise remains high, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #6 is currently accessible through IDW Publishing, promising thrilling twists for readers.

Source & Images