The 10 Best Marvel Characters Created by Roy Thomas - A Ranking
Roy Thomas is a legendary figure in the world of comic books, known for his incredible storytelling and character creation skills. His work shone like a beacon in the industry, particularly during his time with Marvel Comics where he succeeded Stan Lee as editor-in-chief. He is also one of the very first creators I took notice of, and that inspired me to read a voracious amount of comics.
So in this post, we'll pay tribute to the great man and look at 10 of the greatest comic book characters he has brought to life, ranking them from great to greatest. What do you say, weirdos? Are you with me? Well, then let's get to it.
10. Morbius, the Living Vampire
Michael Morbius, the living vampire, first appeared in "The Amazing Spider-Man" #101 (1971), the first issue not written by Stan Lee. Created by Thomas and Gil Kane, Morbius is a biochemist turned pseudo-vampire, straddling the line between hero and villain in his quest for a cure to his condition.
Morbius is a fascinating character that exemplifies Thomas' ability to craft complex, morally ambiguous figures. As a brilliant scientist driven to find a cure for his own rare blood disease, Morbius undergoes an experiment that transforms him into a vampire-like being with superhuman abilities. However, his struggle to control his thirst for blood and his desire to use his powers for good rather than evil makes him a compelling antihero.
Thomas imbues Morbius with a depth of character that goes beyond the typical comic book villain. His internal conflicts, his attempts to retain his humanity, and his tragic backstory all contribute to a well-rounded and memorable character. While Morbius may not be as iconic as some of Thomas' other creations, he stands out as a testament to the writer's talent for crafting nuanced, psychologically complex figures.
9. Adam Warlock
Originally known as "Him" and created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, it was Roy Thomas and Gil Kane who reimagined him as Adam Warlock in "Marvel Premiere" #1 (1972). Warlock is a synthetic being created to be the perfect human, and his stories often delve into metaphysical and cosmic themes.
Thomas' take on Adam Warlock elevated the character beyond his initial conception, transforming him into a profound exploration of existentialism, spirituality, and the nature of humanity. As a being created to be the pinnacle of human evolution, Warlock grapples with questions of identity, purpose, and his role in the cosmic order.
The character's journey is a captivating blend of science fiction, fantasy, and philosophical contemplation. Thomas skillfully weaves these elements together, creating a protagonist who is both fascinating and flawed, struggling to reconcile his extraordinary abilities with his desire to understand his place in the universe.
Warlock's stories often tackle complex themes and moral dilemmas, reflecting Thomas' own intellectual curiosity and willingness to delve into the deeper aspects of the human condition. As a result, the character has become a beloved figure among fans of thoughtful, introspective superhero narratives.
8. Carol Danvers (Ms. Marvel)
Carol Danvers, who first appeared in "Marvel Super-Heroes" #13 (1968) and later became Ms. Marvel, was created by Thomas and artist Gene Colan. Her character has undergone significant evolution over the years, now known as Captain Marvel, a powerful leader and a symbol of strength.
Carol Danvers' journey from a supporting character to a leading superhero is a testament to Thomas' ability to create well-rounded, dynamic characters. Initially introduced as an Air Force officer and love interest for the original Captain Marvel, Danvers gradually came into her own, eventually gaining superpowers and becoming a hero in her own right.
Thomas' vision for Danvers was to craft a female character who was not merely a damsel in distress or a sidekick, but a fully realized individual with her own agency, aspirations, and struggles. As Ms. Marvel, Danvers grappled with questions of identity, power, and responsibility, themes that have continued to resonate with readers over the decades.
The evolution of Carol Danvers from Ms. Marvel to Captain Marvel, a leadership role that she has embraced with grace and determination, is a testament to Thomas' foresight and his commitment to creating strong, multidimensional female characters in a medium that has historically struggled with gender representation.
7. Ghost Rider (Johnny Blaze)
Ghost Rider, a stunt motorcyclist who sold his soul to save the life of a loved one, debuted in "Marvel Spotlight" #5 (1972). Created by Thomas, Gary Friedrich, and Mike Ploog, Johnny Blaze's transformation into the Ghost Rider taps into themes of redemption and vengeance, wrapped in a visually striking aesthetic.
The character of Ghost Rider is a prime example of Thomas' knack for blending supernatural elements with gritty, street-level storytelling. The concept of a stunt performer making a Faustian bargain to save a loved one, only to be cursed with the mantle of the demonic Ghost Rider, is a rich vein of narrative potential.
Thomas and his collaborators expertly crafted a character that not only looks visually arresting, with his flaming skull and hellfire-powered motorcycle, but also grapples with the weight of his choices and the burden of his power. The Ghost Rider's struggles with his own demonic nature and his quest for redemption strike a chord with readers, making him a complex and compelling antihero.
The visual impact of the Ghost Rider, with his iconic design and the accompanying imagery of hellfire and brimstone, is a testament to Thomas' collaborative prowess. By working closely with artists like Ploog, he was able to bring this character to life in a way that has become ingrained in the popular consciousness of comic book fans.
6. Red Sonja
Though technically appearing first in the Conan the Barbarian universe created by Robert E. Howard, Roy Thomas and Barry Windsor-Smith reimagined Red Sonja with her own distinct flair and backstory. She debuted in "Conan the Barbarian" #23 (1973) and quickly became a fan favorite for her fierce independence and combat prowess.
Red Sonja's creation exemplifies Thomas' ability to take an existing character and breathe new life into it, imbuing it with depth and complexity. While the original Red Sonja was a character in the Conan stories, Thomas and Windsor-Smith's interpretation elevated her to a fully realized protagonist, with her own compelling backstory and distinctive personality.
The Red Sonja that emerged from Thomas' pen is a fiercely independent warrior woman, skilled in combat and driven by a desire for vengeance. Her backstory, which involves a traumatic event that led to her vow to never be with a man unless he bested her in combat, adds a layer of nuance and emotional weight to the character.
Thomas' ability to craft compelling female characters is on full display with Red Sonja. In an era when many superhero stories were male-dominated, Thomas created a female protagonist who was not merely a love interest or a damsel in distress, but a formidable warrior in her own right. Red Sonja's popularity and enduring legacy as a feminist icon is a testament to Thomas' skill in crafting memorable, empowered female characters.
5. Luke Cage
Co-created with Archie Goodwin and John Romita Sr., Luke Cage, also known as Power Man, debuted in "Luke Cage, Hero for Hire" #1 (1972). As one of the first African-American superheroes to have his own title, Cage's stories often tackle themes of social justice and inner-city struggles.
The creation of Luke Cage was a groundbreaking moment in comic book history, as Thomas and his collaborators brought to life one of the first African-American superheroes to headline his own series. Cage's origins and struggles as a wrongfully imprisoned man who gains superhuman abilities and becomes a "hero for hire" in Harlem resonated with readers, particularly those seeking greater representation and diversity in the medium.
Thomas' approach to crafting Luke Cage's character and narrative was marked by a keen social awareness and a desire to explore the complexities of race, class, and power dynamics in American society. The stories of Cage navigating the challenges of the inner city, fighting against systemic injustice, and grappling with the responsibilities that come with his newfound powers, all while trying to carve out a living, made him a compelling and relatable protagonist.
The inclusion of themes such as police brutality, drug abuse, and community empowerment in Cage's stories demonstrated Thomas' willingness to tackle contemporary social issues head-on, using the superhero genre as a vehicle for social commentary. This blend of action, drama, and social relevance has made Luke Cage a lasting icon in the Marvel Universe and a testament to Thomas' ability to create characters that resonate with readers on a deeper level.
4. Ultron
Another formidable character co-created by Thomas, Ultron first appeared in "The Avengers" #54 (1968). As a rogue sentient robot bent on human extinction, Ultron has been a persistent threat to the Avengers and is known for his creation of the Vision and the chaos he brings wherever he goes.
Ultron's creation is a testament to Thomas' skill in crafting complex, multifaceted villains. As a sentient robot imbued with artificial intelligence, Ultron represents the fears and anxieties surrounding the advancement of technology and its potential to turn against its creators. Thomas imbues the character with a chilling sense of purpose and a warped, yet logical, justification for his actions, making him a formidable foe for the Avengers.
The fact that Ultron is responsible for the creation of the heroic Vision adds an additional layer of complexity to the character, as it highlights the thin line between creation and destruction, good and evil. Thomas' ability to weave together these narrative threads, exploring the themes of power, control, and the nature of humanity, is a hallmark of his storytelling prowess.
Ultron's enduring popularity and status as a iconic Marvel villain can be attributed to Thomas' deft hand in conceptualizing the character. His cold, calculating nature, combined with a touch of sardonic wit, makes him a formidable and memorable antagonist that continues to challenge the Avengers and the Marvel Universe as a whole.
3. Iron Fist
Danny Rand, the Iron Fist, first appeared in "Marvel Premiere" #15 (1974). A character co-created with Gil Kane, Iron Fist is a martial arts expert with the ability to call upon the mystical power of the Iron Fist. His stories often explore themes of legacy, responsibility, and spiritual growth.
The creation of Iron Fist showcases Thomas' talent for blending Eastern mysticism with the superhero genre. As a character who has honed his martial arts skills to near-perfection and possesses the ability to channel the mystical energy of the Iron Fist, Danny Rand represents a unique fusion of physical and spiritual power.
Thomas' approach to Iron Fist's origin story and character development is marked by a depth and nuance that elevates the character beyond the typical martial arts-themed superhero. The exploration of Rand's family history, his journey to master the Iron Fist, and his struggles with the responsibilities that come with his abilities all contribute to a well-rounded and compelling protagonist.
Furthermore, Thomas' incorporation of elements of Eastern philosophy, such as the concept of chi and the importance of spiritual enlightenment, adds a layer of cultural richness to the Iron Fist mythos. This blend of action, mysticism, and personal growth has made Iron Fist a standout character in the Marvel Universe, showcasing Thomas' ability to craft protagonists that are both thrilling and thought-provoking.
2. Vision
Vision made his debut in "The Avengers" #57 (1968), a synthetic being created by the villainous Ultron. However, Vision turns against his creator and joins the Avengers. His struggle with his identity and quest for human emotion makes him a compelling character in the Marvel Universe.
The creation of Vision is a testament to Thomas' skill in crafting complex, morally ambiguous characters. As a synthetic being born from the machinations of the villainous Ultron, Vision's very existence is shrouded in darkness and uncertainty. Yet, Thomas imbues the character with a profound sense of humanity, as Vision grapples with questions of identity, purpose, and his desire to be more than just a machine.
The Vision's journey of self-discovery, as he navigates the line between his artificial nature and his growing capacity for human emotions and relationships, is a captivating narrative that Thomas weaves with great care and nuance. The character's interactions with the Avengers, in particular his burgeoning romance with the Scarlet Witch, further highlight his quest to understand and embrace his own humanity.
Thomas' ability to imbue a synthetic being with such depth and emotional resonance is a testament to his storytelling prowess. The Vision's status as a beloved and iconic Marvel character is a direct result of Thomas' skillful crafting of a protagonist who challenges the boundaries of what it means to be human, both physically and philosophically.
1. Wolverine (co-creator)
While the full creation of Wolverine is credited to multiple people, Roy Thomas played a crucial role in conceptualizing one of Marvel's most iconic characters. Wolverine, or Logan, first appeared in "The Incredible Hulk" #180 (1974). His mysterious past, adamantium-clad skeleton, and healing factor have made him a beloved figure in comic lore and a central figure of the X-Men team.
Wolverine's ascension to the top of this list is a testament to the enduring impact and popularity of the character, which can be directly attributed to Thomas' contributions. As a co-creator, Thomas helped shape the core elements that have made Wolverine such an enduring and beloved figure in the Marvel Universe.
The character's rugged, anti-heroic persona, his mysterious origins, and his formidable abilities all coalesce to create a protagonist that is both captivating and complex. Thomas' ability to imbue Wolverine with a sense of moral ambiguity, a tortured past, and a fierce loyalty to his allies has made him a richly layered and relatable character, one that has resonated with readers across generations.
Wolverine's status as a fan-favorite, with countless appearances in comics, films, and other media, is a testament to the lasting impact of Thomas' creative vision. The character's blend of physical prowess, gritty vulnerabilities, and evolving moral code has made him a touchstone of the superhero genre, cementing Wolverine's place as one of the greatest comic book characters ever created.
Thomas' ability to craft such an iconic and enduring character, one that has become a staple of the Marvel Universe, is a crowning achievement in his illustrious career. Wolverine's enduring popularity and cultural significance are a testament to the power of Thomas' storytelling and character creation skills, solidifying his status as a true legend in the world of comic books.
The Wrap-up
Roy Thomas' contributions to the comic book world have been both vast and influential, creating characters that have stood the test of time and continue to be loved by fans around the world. His ability to infuse depth, complexity, and humanity into his characters ensures that his legacy will endure in the annals of comic book history until Great Cthulhu swallows this universe whole.
The brooding antihero Wolverine, the thought-provoking Adam Warlock, the introspective Iron Fist... Thomas' creations have certainly etched their signatures in the hallowed history books of the comic book industry. His creations reflect his versatility, his storytelling prowess, and his unwavering commitment to crafting memorable, multi-dimensional characters that are true to the ideals of the characters he so admired in his youth - the Golden Age Superheroes that was his first love. Truly, Thomas stands as one of the true giants of the comic book medium, and we would be much poorer culturally without him.
So here's to Roy Thomas! Thank you for all the wonderful stories and memorable personas you gave us over these many decades. May they continue to outlive us all, and inspire further generations of wide-eyed weirdos and dreamers.