12 Unknown and Unappreciated Avengers Members in The Comics
Let’s delve into the fascinating world of lesser-known and unappreciated Avengers—those heroes who might not be as famous as Iron Man or Captain America but have left their mark in Marvel Comics history.
Have you ever heard of Synapse, Two-Gun Kid, Wonder Man, Gilgamesh, or Darkhawk? Some of these characters have storied histories in the comic books that are now forgotten, unknown, or unappreciated by fan bases.
Here are 12 intriguing but unappreciated Avengers who deserve more recognition.
Dr. Druid
Dr. Druid was basically a Dr. Strange ripoff and mystic who was also an Avenger. However, having mystical powers does not set one apart in Marvel Comics. Also, Dr. Druid was usually drawn as an old, balding man with a beer gut dressed in spandex and a new-age robe – there seemed to be an editorial mandate to make the character look as uncool as possible.
Dr. Druid was remade into a cooler and edgier occult superhero in the 1990s, but the comic only connected with a cult audience. Dr. Druid is the poster child for the class of unappreciated Avengers.
Wonder Man
Wonder Man, also known as Simon Williams, has an uber-complicated history and backstory in the Marvel Comic books. He started out as a villain with ionic powers who died, was resurrected, and became a good guy who joined the Avengers. Wonder Man and Beast, who were both Avengers, had a Starsky & Hutch-like bromance in Avenger comic books in the 1970s and 1980s.
Wonder Man has not been vital in Marvel comic books for many years, making him one of the most unappreciated Avengers. A race-bent version of the character will premiere on a Disney+ streaming show soon.
Protector (Noh-Varr)
Protector, formerly known as Noh-Varr, is a Kree warrior with a rebellious streak. His cosmic powers and anti-authoritarian attitude set him apart. His journey from antagonist to Avenger showcases growth and redemption.
He has weird powers that allow him to control his bodily fluids, so he has powers like exploding fingernails and saliva that can cause psychedelic freakouts. His weird power set is probably what caused him one of the most unappreciated Avengers.
The Forgotten One (Gilgamesh)
With a name like The Forgotten One, it’s no wonder he’s often overlooked. This Eternal-turned-Avenger has a rich history. Exiled from his people, Gilgamesh brings ancient wisdom and strength to the team. However, he is often written like other strongman characters and is often an unknown Avenger to even die-hard comic book fans.
Manifold
Manifold, or Eden Fesi, hails from Australia. He can speak to reality and teleport. These teleportation powers allow him to traverse dimensions effortlessly. His calm demeanor and unique abilities make him a valuable asset, even if he’s not a household name.
Manifold has been romantically involved with Wakanda’s Shuri, an ally of the X-Men, and an Avenger in the comic books. He is an amazing character who does not deserve a place on the Unappreciated Avengers list.
Lightning
Lightning, also known as Miguel Santos, hails from Brazil. His power? Controlling electricity. While not a household name, his electrifying abilities have saved the day more than once. Plus, his diverse background adds richness to the Avengers’ global roster.
Still, there are numerous superheroes who control lighting. There is a trope that wonders why so many black superheroes control lighting as a superpower. His powers make it hard for him to stand out as an Avenger.
Darkhawk
Darkhawk, aka Chris Powell, wields an alien amulet that transforms him into a powerful armored hero. His struggles with identity and the amulet’s dark origins add depth to his character. Although not a headline Avenger, Darkhawk’s adventures are worth exploring.
The character has not been able to headline a solo comic book series for long, and that makes him one of the most unappreciated Avengers.
Nightmask
Nightmask, aka Adam Blackveil, possesses dream-based abilities. He can enter people’s dreams, manipulate reality, and explore the subconscious. His inclusion in the Avengers adds a surreal twist to the team’s adventures.
Since the MCU already has Dr, Strange and Scarlet Witch, there may not be enough room on the silver screen for other big-league mystics like Nightmask just yet. However, while one of the most unappreciated Avengers, this character is a big deal in the comic books.
Stingray
Dr. Walter Newell, also known as Stingray, is an oceanographer with a twist. Clad in high-tech armor, he patrols the seas, defending marine life and battling underwater threats. His unique abilities and aquatic expertise make him an essential member of the Unappreciated Avengers class, even if he doesn’t always steal the spotlight.
Synapse
During the Inhumanity storyline, Marvel attempted to elevate the Inhumans franchise to Avengers-level prominence. Synapse, a character with empathic powers, played a crucial role. She can sense and manipulate emotions, making her an intriguing addition to the team dynamics.
Still, there are many heroes with similar power sets in the comics, so she remains in the Unappreciated Avengers class.
Madame Web
Madame Web, a mysterious psychic, has guided heroes through countless challenges. Her precognitive abilities and cryptic wisdom make her an enigmatic presence. Despite her lack of physical prowess, she remains an essential part of the Avengers’ extended family.
You probably know by now that her Sony-verse and Spider-Man-affiliated film bombed hard at the box office. However, Madame Web is a big deal and is respected in the Marvel comic books and cartoon versions.
Two-Gun Kid
Matt Hawk, a time-traveling cowboy from the Wild West, joined the Avengers during a temporary temporal escapade. His sharpshooting skills and rugged charm add a touch of frontier flair to the team.
So, next time you think of the Avengers, remember these unsung heroes who quietly fight alongside Earth’s mightiest. Their stories are as captivating as any blockbuster superhero saga.
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Allen Francis is a full-time writer, prolific comic book investor and author of The Casual’s Guide: Why You Should Get Into Comic Book Investing. Allen holds a BA degree from Marymount Manhattan College. Before becoming a writer Allen was an academic advisor, librarian, and college adjunct for many years. Allen is an advocate of best personal financial practices including saving and investing in your own small business.