As a lover of comics and superheroes, I have to say that it’s fascinating to see how the genre has evolved over the years, particularly when it comes to diversity. The number of Black superheroes with electrical powers is truly astounding, and each character brings something unique to the table.
Initially, when comic books began gaining popularity, nearly every superhero was a white male. This was largely because comics were heavily influenced by the societal norms of their era. The idea of a black superhero was seldom considered for quite some time due to racial tensions in the U.S., along with the assumption that such characters wouldn’t be commercially successful.
It took a while for black superheroes to leave their stamp in the industry, but once they did, several of them arrived with electric abilities. This wasn’t intentional, but as some of the newer heroes gained momentum and recognition, a number of subsequent black superheroes found themselves fitting into an electrical stereotype, a pattern that persisted for many years.
In a pile of comics today, you’ll likely encounter numerous Black superheroes with electric abilities. Although heroes such as Falcon and Black Panther do not possess these powers at all, this electric power theme persists as a recurring stereotype.
Who was the first Black superhero with electricity powers?
Originally, Ororo Munroe, famously known as Storm, was the first Black superhero endowed with electricity abilities in Marvel Comics. She debuted in “Giant-Size X-Men” #1, a comic published in 1975, where she was one of the newly recruited X-Men. Storm’s powers stem from her mutant gene, making her an Omega-level mutant.
Exceptionally powerful Omega-mutants, such as Storm, are far from ordinary. Besides harnessing electricity for weaponry by channeling the Earth’s magnetic field to create lightning, she boasts an impressive array of abilities. Most notably, Storm is renowned for her control over the weather itself. This allows her to conjure or dissipate tornadoes at will, summon rain or make it cease, and unleash lightning across a vast area or use it to strike her adversaries.
As a gaming enthusiast, I’ve got to clear up a common misconception. It’s true Storm was the first Black superheroine with electric powers, but it doesn’t mean subsequent Black characters gained their abilities from her. Instead, a character from DC Comics paved that path, as they were intentionally designed to reach out to a new audience segment. This move inadvertently spawned an entire archetype, giving birth to the trope of electric-powered characters in comics.
How the Electric Black Superhero trope took off – and what it means
In 1977, DC Comics introduced Black Lightning as an alternative to a previous character named the Brown Bomber, who was originally a white racist but transformed into a black superhero under stress. However, the Brown Bomber proved to be one of the most racially insensitive characters in comic books. So, DC Comics creators Tony Isabella and Trevor Von Eeden developed Black Lightning as a powerful hero with electrical powers instead, targeting a more diverse audience.
Black Lightning rapidly gained widespread acclaim, leading DC Comics to frequently feature him in their publications. Although he wasn’t the initial Black superhero, his compelling character and skillful writing made him resonate with a diverse audience. He served as a powerful role model for young readers, reflecting their experiences, and for many children, he symbolized a hero they could identify with.
In essence, Storm may have played a role, yet mainly it was Black Lightning who initiated the pattern of Black superheroes having electric abilities in comics. This character served as an inspiration for subsequent ones with similar powers, and also birthed numerous imitators. One such duplicate appeared on TV around three decades prior to Black Lightning’s appearance in “Young Justice,” due to disagreements among various companies regarding licensing rights.
Black Vulcan
Black Lightning, who possessed immense power and was highly sought-after, was initially planned for inclusion in “The All-New Super Friends Hour.” Regrettably, an agreement among DC Comics, Tony Isabella, and Hanna-Barbera could not be reached, preventing his appearance. However, since Black Lightning couldn’t make the team, there was no obstacle to another character with similar qualities joining instead.
In a change, Black Lightning’s appearance and persona transformed into Black Vulcan, yet to those observant enough, it was still Black Lightning donning fresh attire. Dave Gibbons, the artist from “Watchmen,” created this lesser-known hero who, despite his popularity, wasn’t frequently seen beyond “Super Friends.
In contrast to Black Vulcan, who has made appearances in just four comics since his inception, Black Lightning has been featured extensively – appearing in hundreds of comic books, starring in a live-action TV series, and gracing numerous shows and films. While Black Vulcan was primarily a response to licensing issues, he also set the stage for a popular trope as the first character to emulate Black Lightning’s powers.
Bumblebee
Before Black Lightning made his entrance at DC Comics, Bumblebee had already appeared, but she wasn’t a superhero from the get-go. Her initial introduction was as Karen Beecher in “Teen Titans” towards the end of 1976. However, it wasn’t until the following year, specifically in “Teen Titans” #48, that she officially became Bumblebee. This timeline positions her right after Black Lightning and slightly before Black Vulcan, who first appeared on “The All-New Super Friends Hour” in September 1977.
In contrast to being merely another Black superhero with electric powers, Bumblebee stands out for more than just these abilities. As one of DC Comics’ pioneering Black female superheroes, she boasts a wider range of powers beyond her capacity to fire electrical bio-stings at adversaries. With the aid of a solar-powered suit, she can fly and, remarkably, shrink down to the size of an actual bumblebee. Moreover, Bumblebee’s intelligence is exceptional.
If some aspects seem reminiscent, you might recognize Janet Van Dyne, also known as The Wasp from Marvel Comics. She made her debut before Bumblebee, and it’s hard to overlook the resemblances they have. However, Bumblebee has earned popularity regardless of any influence drawn from Marvel’s Wasp. Appearing in countless comics, she’s been featured on “Teen Titans” and “Young Justice,” as well as various TV series, animated shows, and films.
Icon
In the early 1990s, Milestone Comics, a subsidiary of DC, introduced one of their main characters, Icon. This character was initially published in “Icon” #1, released in 1993, and unlike other DC Universe characters, he operated independently. The comic series “Icon” ran for several years but concluded after 42 issues in 1997. After a merge of publishers in the 2000s, Icon joined the DC Universe and has since appeared in various comics as well as the “Young Justice” animated series.
The character known as Icon, whose earthly aliases are Arnus and Augustus Freeman, is not human but an extraterrestrial disguised as a Black man to blend in on our planet. Alongside Rocket, a teenage human who employs Icon’s technology for superhero exploits, this alien forms an extraordinary team. Endowed with a multitude of abilities such as immense strength, flight, invincibility, shape-shifting, and many others, Icon is truly a remarkable being.
Of course, he also has the ability to control electricity, but it’s only one of the many superpowers Icon has employed against his enemies over the years. Unfortunately, he never truly took off like Black Lightning and other electrically powered Black superheroes. He’s only appeared in a little more than 100 comics since his introduction, which is a shame, as he’s an interesting character with a canon history that stretches back to the mid 1800s, but he’s barely made a dent in DC’s lore.
Static
In the last part of “Icon” #1, Static made his initial appearance, thus technically debuting in that same issue. However, it was a full month later when “Static” #1 was released, providing an official introduction for Virgil Hawkins and his companions. Static possesses the power to manipulate electromagnetism, which encompasses a variety of skills. He can fly, generate protective barriers, recover swiftly, exert magnetic forces, control technology with his mind, and manage electricity.
Static possesses powers similar to Black Lightning, yet he has some unique skills of his own. Similar to Icon, Static moved from the Milestone Comics universe to DC when the two combined, and since then, he’s become a beloved character in the DC universe. You can often find him with the Teen Titans or Young Justice, but he’s also worked with the Justice League on occasion.
Static has been more widely accepted than his previous counterpart, appearing in over 180 comic issues since his debut. Apart from comics, Static has excelled in animated media, featuring in numerous shows like “Young Justice,” various full-length films, and a series titled “Static Shock,” which spanned four seasons. Initially, there were plans for a live-action TV show based on him; however, it was one of the many DC TV productions that didn’t make it to air.
Rapture
Initially introduced in “Savage Dragon” #4 back in 1994, Sharona Jackson – once a prostitute – became a significant character throughout the extended run of the series. Born into hardship and forced to work as a sex worker to make ends meet, she adopted the name Rapture. Under the control of a violent pimp named Bryan Walker, Rapture found herself in the company of other women who were also subjected to his abuse, culminating in him killing one of them.
In another storyline, Rapture is taken away by Dr. Nirvana and turned into a powerful entity, though their encounter almost claims both lives due to an explosion in the lab. This transformation grants Rapture unique abilities, such as manipulating electricity, which prove useful when she joins Freak Force, a team of superheroes, as they battle evil forces. A significant development unfolds when she enters into a romantic relationship with Dragon, leading to the birth of Malcolm. Tragically, Rapture passes away in the comics, but different versions of her character are subsequently created by Larsen.
At this stage in comic book production, it wasn’t groundbreaking to introduce a Black superhero with electric abilities, but series creator Erik Larsen brought something fresh with Rapture. As Malcolm’s mother, she plays a crucial role in the evolving plot, but what makes her stand out is her intriguing character and her tragic past that significantly contributes to the broader narrative of the comic series.
Coldcast
In 2001, Coldcast made his debut in comic books through the pages of “Action Comics #775.” Born as Nathan Craig Jones, he initially appeared as an antihero and a member of The Elite. Over time, this team morphed into Justice League Elite, which was essentially a covert division of the classic DC team, largely consisting of former Elite members. In his initial appearance, Coldcast engaged in a fierce confrontation with none other than Superman himself.
In their clash with Superman, the Elite, known for their ruthless approach towards foes, collide heads-on with the Man of Steel. This antagonistic behavior triggers a showdown between The Elite and Superman. During this battle, Coldcast seizes Superman’s head and unleashes an intense burst of electric power against him – a force so potent, it momentarily subdues him. Coldcast has since been featured in numerous animated productions, consistently portrayed as a complex antihero.
Regrettably, despite making some appearances in cartoons, Coldcast has been scarcely seen in comics. He’s only been showcased in 31 issues by late 2024, and there hasn’t been a significant clamor from fans for more of him. Coldcast is an intriguing character, being a Black antihero with electric powers, which sets him apart from the usual law-abiding heroes like Superman.
Blue Marvel
Adam Brashear, also known as Blue Marvel, is an intriguing character not just because of his power abilities, but for other compelling reasons too. His origins date back to the 1960s within the Marvel Universe, as depicted in “Adam: Legend of the Blue Marvel” #1, even though he was officially introduced in 2008. From a chronological standpoint, he stands as the initial Black superhero with electrical powers, but it’s important to note that he is a relatively modern character creation.
The racial aspect plays a significant role in his narrative. In 1962, he was bestowed with the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Kennedy, who also requested him to retire immediately. This was due to an incident where Blue Marvel’s mask got torn during a fight, exposing his ethnicity at a time when America was not yet ready to accept a Black superhero. After much contemplation, he decided it was time to return, once again donning his spandex and rejoining the world of heroics.
Keeping Blue Marvel out of action for almost six decades served as an effective means to highlight how societal intolerance affected his character’s past. This is significant because Blue Marvel isn’t just any ordinary hero; he’s among the most powerful in the Marvel universe. His electric powers are just one aspect of his arsenal, which also includes manipulating antimatter, invulnerability, generating light, flying, and controlling energy, as well as superhuman capabilities in strength, agility, stamina, speed, and more. To top it off, he’s a genius with an electrical engineering background.
Volt
At BOOM! Studios, numerous writers and illustrators have enjoyed crafting a variety of characters, including Volt from “Irredeemable” by Mark Waid and Peter Krause, who was introduced in 2009. This character is quite intriguing. Initially, he operated as a mercenary hero, but eventually, Plutonian invites him to join the superteam Paradigm, offering assistance in teaching the new hero how to manage his powers as a trade-off.
Firstly, Volt found it difficult to interact with anything electronic, for he’d ruin it. Regrettably, the primary narrative of “Irredeemable” revolves around the question: what if someone as potent as Superman decided to be malevolent? In this world, Plutonian loses control and embarks on a violent rampage, aiming for his former teammates, associates, and companions — including Volt. This eventually leads to Volt’s demise when he tells Plutonian, “I’d be willing to sacrifice my left arm to aid you,” to which Plutonian retaliates by tearing off Volt’s left arm.
What makes Volt stand out is his self-awareness – he often points out that he fits into a trope as a Black superhero with electrical abilities. This nods to earlier characters like Black Lightning, Static, and others who paved the way, a move by writer Waid to pay tribute to them.
Aqualad
It may seem that Aqualad is Aquaman’s child due to his name, but this assumption couldn’t be more incorrect. The original Aqualad, Garth, didn’t possess electrical powers and wasn’t Black, unlike Jackson Hyde who is both African-American and has electric abilities. This character stands out as he was initially introduced in the comics during “Brightest Day” #4 and also debuted on “Young Justice” in the same year; however, his origin story varies slightly between these two mediums, while his powers remain consistent.
Originally, Aqualad is the child of Aquaman’s arch-nemesis, Black Manta. However, he chose to align with the Atlanteans instead, becoming Aquaman’s trusted ally. Due to his Atlantean heritage, Aqualad boasts a variety of extraordinary abilities. These include breath control for underwater living, exceptional speed, heightened senses, and extraordinary physical strength – all qualities that come naturally to him as an Atlantean.
Apart from his ability to manipulate water, Aqualad can also unleash powerful electric pulses against his enemies. Although he’s not defined by these electrical attacks, they constitute a significant portion of his superpowers. You’ll often see him employing them, especially in combination with his hydrokinesis. Despite being relatively new, Aqualad has made appearances in over 225 comics by the end of 2024, and it seems this trend is likely to continue.
Azari
In the 2006 comic “Black Panther” issue #18, Storm from the X-Men and Black Panther (T’Challa) got married. However, they later annulled their marriage. Despite this, they have remained close due to sharing a son named Azari T’challa T’chacka Evan Duke of Wakanda, who is often referred to simply as Azari.
In line with many Marvel Comics characters who are children of superheroes, Azari possesses incredible powers inherited from his parents. Besides displaying the same skills as his father, whose abilities are amplified by Wakandan technology, he also shares his mother’s talents like flying, manipulating energy, controlling electricity, and more. With a multitude of superpowers under his belt, Azari surpasses both of his parents in strength. Interestingly, he is from the future, and due to some time-traveling antics, he had the unique experience of meeting his parents before they ever had a chance to conceive him.
In various animated series, Azari, a new character, has demonstrated his remarkable skills. Notably, in “Next Avengers: Heroes of Tomorrow,” when he constructs an electric energy shield, it transforms into a colossal panther. Being the son of Storm and inheriting her powers, Azari is part of a rich lineage of African-American superheroes with electrical abilities. He certainly won’t be the last to expand this theme.
Miles Morales
Superheroes come into existence through diverse means. For instance, Miles Morales was motivated by a scene from “Community” featuring Donald Glover wearing Spider-Man pajamas. He first appeared in the 2011 issue #4 of “Ultimate Fallout” and has been a significant figure in comic books since then. Initially, Miles began his journey in the Ultimate Universe (Earth-1610), but later moved to Marvel’s primary universe continuity (Earth-616).
In a different phrasing, Miles possesses the same talents as other Spider-Beings, such as an anticipatory Spider-Sense, the capacity to adhere to any surface, extraordinary strength, and agility beyond the ordinary. However, unlike most iterations of the web-slinger, Miles has unique powers that set him apart. One of these is the ability to conceal himself, rendering him virtually invisible. More pertinent to this discussion, Miles can control his bioelectric energy to create powerful electrical discharges, which he refers to as his “venom strike.
Among all Black superheroes with electric powers who have emerged since Storm made her debut in 1975, Miles Morales stands out as the most beloved. Despite his status as a recent addition, he has already been featured in over 1,260 comic book stories up to late 2024. Moreover, he spearheaded Sony’s “Spider-Verse” animated series, and together, the first two movies grossed more than $1 billion collectively. If that doesn’t underscore a character’s popularity, what does?
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2024-11-24 00:31