Captain Marvel

Shazam, known until 2011 as Captain Marvel, is a fictional superhero who appears in American comic books published by DC Comics, and in a number of television and video game adaptations. The character was created in 1939 by artist C. C. Beck and writer Bill Parker, and first appeared in Whiz Comics #2, published by Fawcett Comics.
Shazam is the alter ego of Billy Batson, a boy who, by speaking the magic word "Shazam", can transform himself into a costumed adult with the powers of superhuman strength, speed, flight, and other abilities. His name is an acronym of the six figures from whom his magical powers derive: Solomon, Hercules, Atlas, Zeus, Achilles, and Mercury.
Based on book sales, the character, then known as Captain Marvel, was the most popular superhero of the 1940s, outselling even Superman, and Fawcett expanded the franchise to include other "Marvels", primarily Marvel Family associates Mary Marvel and Captain Marvel Jr., who can share Billy's powers. Captain Marvel was also the first comic book superhero to be adapted into film, in a 1941 Republic Pictures serial titled Adventures of Captain Marvel.

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Ranking comic book characters by their powers, strength, physical traits, affiliations, and other features, like how just goshdarn super they are.

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Superheroes: in some ways, they're just like us. Which is why we like to evaluate them by our standards.

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Spanning from the caped crusaders of yesterday to the icons of our modern era, this compilation of the best superheroes has been meticulously assembled by comic book aficionados to showcase the exemplars of heroism and valor. Encompassing the mightiest from the DC and Marvel Universes, as well as the unsung champions of indie comics, the list celebrates the <a class="edS-cl" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/superheroes-ranked-by-most-comic-book-appearances/ranker-comics?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">most popular superheroes</a> who've captured the imagination of readers around the world.Superheroes often strike an intriguing balance between tangible human struggles and remarkable superhuman feats. They might possess extraordinary powers or rely on their unmatched intellect and technology to craft a persona dedicated to the defense of the innocent. Though the term 'superhero' has been around since the early 20th century, it was the arrival of Superman in 1938 that truly ensconced these mighty warriors in the public consciousness.From Superman's otherworldly abilities to the keen detective skills of Batman and the technological prowess of Iron Man, these characters have varied paths to their heroic destinies—some born with powers, others using sheer human ingenuity to combat evil. Their allure is not just in muscular might or mystic abilities, but also in their layered personalities, complex backstories, and, occasionally, the endearing awkwardness of their alter egos.The 21st century has seen superheroes leap from the pages of comic books to the forefront of mainstream media, especially with blockbuster films dominating the box office. This heightened visibility has sparked deeper explorations into the archetype of the superhero, resulting in characters that reflect upon the very nature of heroism itself.The list before you offers a chance to revisit these awe-inspiring figures and elevate your personal favorites. From the iconic top 50 to the comprehensive top 200, each superhero here awaits your endorsement. While villains are essential to the narratives that shape these heroes, they hold no place on this particular roster. Now, it’s your turn to weigh in on the eternal question: Who is the greatest superhero of all time? Cast your vote and contribute to the ultimate ranking of these legendary guardians of justice.

Captain America

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The Best Comic Book Superheroes Of All Time, Ranked By Fans

The 285+ Best Superheroes Of All Time, Ranked

Ranker Community

Lists that rank the best and worst characters, moments, films, costumes, and etc. in DC Comics history.

The Universe of DC Comics

Lists about DC's Scarlet Speedster, zipping across the big screen June 16, 2023.

In a Flash

What makes a hero? DC Comics easily answers that inquiry with a stable of great, iconic heroes on their roster, and while fans of Marvel would vehemently disagree – some of the best, coolest, and <a class="edS-cl" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/most-powerful-comic-book-characters-ranked/ranker-comics?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">most powerful cartoon characters</a> of all time. Batman, Superman, and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/dc-wonder-woman-vs-greek-mythology/maggie-clancy">Wonder Woman</a> are all top DC heroes, and they have been and will remain as some of the most iconic and important superheroes of all time. Pick your choices for the best DC characters and rank them as you see fit, or just vote for your faves! Take a look at this <a class="edS-cl" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/movies-based-on-detective-comics/ranker-film?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">list of DC</a> <a class="edS-cl" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/best-female-comic-book-characters/ranker-characters?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">comic book characters</a>, namely the strongest superheroes that always show up to save the day from those diabolical villains!You won't find every DC.superhero on this list, though you'll find that it's fairly comprehensive, ranking the most famous and beloved DC heroes we've collectively come to love. New and old, prominent and obscure, male or female — this list is full of the many classic DC characters we've come to love since they first hit comic books, TV, and movies. You'll also find a description and pictures alongside each of the legends on this list.Who are the top DC characters? Do you prefer Flash over Batman or Green Arrow? Let us know! Vote up <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/crowdranked-list/best-superheroes-all-time?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">the greatest superheroes</a> from the DC Universe or make your own ReRank of&nbsp;this DC heroes list with your personal favorites listed as the top 10 DC heroes. From popular names to lesser known good guys, these are the very best DC heroes ever.&nbsp;

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The 100+ Best DC Comics Heroes Of All Time, According To Fans

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The Top 100+ DC Superheroes Of All Time, Ranked

The Best Comic Book Superheroes of All Time

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This list of teenage superheroes has been voted on by you. the fans. These are the best teenage superheroes of all time! Being a teenager is both tough (because it's an awkward time) and awesome (because you're young and all of your joints work!) --- like these superheroes. From finishing yesterday's math homework and thinking about your crush by day, to saving the world and still thinking about your crush by night. Vote and help decide the best adolescent superheroes in comic book history. They may sometimes be&nbsp;identified as a young adult by casual comic book fans.Who is your favorite teenage superhero? Vote for your favorite young superhero now! &nbsp;

Miss Martian

The Best Teenage Superheroes

The Best Teenage Superheroes in Comic Books

Lists about the DC Comics superhero team and the film of the same name.

Justice League

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The Justice League, a television and film franchise, revolves around an alliance of superheroes who come together to protect the world from evil and chaos. These powerful heroes, hailing from different planets and dimensions, are united by their common desire to safeguard humanity and uphold justice. The diverse abilities and personalities that each hero possesses contribute to the team&#39;s overall prowess in battling formidable foes.

When it comes to ranking the best Justice League characters, there is much debate among fans. They analyze the strengths, personalities, and importance of each member. These figures offer more than just displays of power; each one embodies moral codes, personal histories, and captivating storylines. With so many talents on display within this group, it is no wonder that fans eagerly discuss which members should be considered the pinnacle of superhero excellence.

Several key heroes have emerged as fan-favorites over time. For instance, Batman stands out because of his impressive intellect and mastery over martial arts disciplines; he represents the ultimate human warrior with unwavering dedication to fighting crime. Flash garners admiration for his speed. Meanwhile, Wonder Woman offers strength and compassion as she navigates her roles as both warrior princess of Themyscira and global ambassador for peace.

Reflecting on these exceptional Justice League members provides an opportunity for fans to celebrate their favorite characters. At its core lie questions about what it means to be a hero: how qualities like courage, resilience, empathy, loyalty intermingle with personal abilities in defining heroic individuals. By examining the best characters from Justice League, you can gain a greater appreciation&nbsp; for the stories and relationships woven into this universe.

Green Lantern

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The 100+ Best DC Comics Heroes of All Time According to Fans

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Certain <a class="edS-cl" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/best-female-comic-book-characters/ranker-characters?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">comic book characters</a> definitely lend themselves to film better than others.

Sometimes it&#39;s their costume, or their power-set being cinematically dynamic (how Hydroman made this list), or how necessary they are to the universe, or even to a specific storyline. Many <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/biggest-superheroes-villains-not-in-live-action-movies-tv/stephanroget" target="_blank">heroes and villains</a> out there deserve their turn in the limelight. With Guardians of the Galaxy, Marvel showed no character is too obscure to delight fans, and with Captain America: The Winter Soldier&nbsp;and The Dark Knight they proved that you really can have multiple villains work in a single film... unlike the disasters that are&nbsp;Spider-Man 3 and Batman &amp; Robin.

From fan favorites (Carnage!) to how-do-they-not-have-a-movie-yet?! (Ms. Marvel, and yes we know it&#39;s eventually coming but it&#39;s not here yet), these are the comic characters we should see in movies. We also added characters that need to be redone in the comic book film industry (Green Lantern... among others).

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38 Comic Book Characters We Want to See on Film

Comic Book Characters We Want to See on Film

Comic Book Characters Without Movies | Comic Book Movies We Want

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While superhero comics are mostly associated with bright colors and wholesome heroes, that&#39;s not always the case. Some comics get dark - really dark - faster than you would expect. Even the most famous and beloved heroes in the world aren&#39;t always guaranteed a happy ending. With infinite multiverses and <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/weirdest-alternate-versions-heroes-and-villains/joedonley" target="_blank">weird versions</a> of each character, there are some stories in which our heroes&#39; fates are as depressing as heck.&nbsp;

It doesn&#39;t matter if you&#39;re the Man of Steel or the&nbsp;Incredible Hulk - no amount of strength can save you from the existential terrors of your own bad deeds. These are the <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/disturbing-future-versions-of-superheroes/stephanroget" target="_blank">disturbing future realities</a> where the heroes spend more time wallowing than fighting, and they&#39;re&nbsp;honestly hard to accept.&nbsp;

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The Most Depressing Future Versions Of Superheroes

The Most Depressing Future Versions Of Superheroes, Ranked By Fans

Eric Luis

Capes couldn't be more associated with superheroes. Not every superhero wears a cape, and in today's comic's not many superheroes wear capes. But what's the one thing a little kid grabs, ties around his neck, and starts cruising around the house pretending to be a superhero? A towel, sheet, blanket or anything else he can use as a cape!Not all the <a href="http://www.ranker.com/list/best-superhero-costumes/analise.dubner">best superhero costumes</a>&nbsp;have capes, but plenty do. Superhero capes come in all shapes, sizes, and practicalities. Heck we could make a list of just the capes <a href="http://www.ranker.com/list/best-batman-costumes-v1/ranker-comics">Batman has worn</a> depending on the story or the artists depicting the caped crusader. Superman is known for his big red cape (usually complete with that iconic S). Some superheroes use their capes practically. The aforementioned Batman uses his to glide through the skies above Gotham. Storm's cape helps her fly, and Banshee's allows him to channel his screams into flight. Heck, Spawn's cape is a living freakin' entity! That cape is like Venom meets Ghost Rider!Needless to say, someone needed to gather up all of the coolest capes in comics in one place, and pit them against one another with user votes deciding <a href="https://www.ranker.com/crowdranked-list/best-superheroes-all-time?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">the best superhero</a> capes ever. These are the absolute best capes in comics and it's up to you to chose the victor! Vote up your all time favorite capes.*Cloaks are included because cloaks are awesome.

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The Best Superhero Capes &amp; Cloaks in Comics

The Best Superhero Capes in Comic Books, Ranked

Lists about the Marvel's Norse god of Thunder, Son of Odin, Lord of Asgard.

The Mighty Thor

The Avengers

Not just anyone can lift Thor&#39;s hammer. Thanks to an enchantment by Odin, only one who is worthy can wield&nbsp;it. While worthiness is rather subjective, it&#39;s no joke. Many physically strong beings have tried to heft it, but can&#39;t even get it to budge.

In the comics, there are a number of <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/who-has-wielded-thor-hammer/jonathan-kantor" target="_blank">characters who have lifted Mjolnir</a>. Some of them are in the main Marvel continuity. Some are from alternate continuities, what-ifs, or company crossovers. Based on what we know about Thor as a character in the comics, who do you think should be <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/action-movie-heroes-worthy-of-mjolnir/tyler-mitchell" target="_blank">able to lift Mjolnir</a> with no problem?

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Who are the funniest <a href="https://www.ranker.com/crowdranked-list/best-superheroes-all-time?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">comic book characters</a> and superheroes? It seems like too many superheroes and comic books are too grim. Everything is just too serious. There needs to be a little more humor and fun in comics. Luckily, there are some comic book characters out there that know how to have a little fun and crack a few jokes.&nbsp;Humor in comics is making a comeback and there are handful of funny superheroes out there. Everyone from Deadpool to The Tick to Rocket Raccoon makes an appearance on this list of funniest superheroes. Some of their humor is straight slapstick, while others rely on funny one-liners or witty banter, but there's plenty to go around for these funny superheroes.&nbsp;

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The Funniest Comic Book Superheroes

The Funniest Superheroes with a Sense of Humor

Entertainment

The allure of fictional characters leading double lives lies in the intricate web of secrecy, tension, and intrigue they create. These characters deftly navigate two worlds, one marked by mundane reality and the other by extraordinary adventure, causing readers and viewers to become mesmerized by their duality. Whether they’re battling villains in the shadows or hiding supernatural abilities behind ordinary facades, these characters captivate through their complex existence, embodying the multifaceted challenges of balancing their public facades with hidden depths. Regarding the best characters leading a double life, certain personalities truly shine. This collection spans an impressive variety, from superheroes and vigilantes to ordinary individuals thrust into extraordinary circumstances. Each character brings an individual set of skills and challenges, making their secretive lives both identifiable and inspiring. Their constant struggle to safeguard their secret while striving to make a difference often renders their stories deeply compelling, offering a rich world of conflict, morality, and identity. Exceptional storytelling ensures these characters’ journeys are both dramatic and emotionally resonant, whispering to the hidden hero within everyone. Take, for instance, Peter Parker / Spider-Man, a high school student by day and wall-crawling superhero by night. His tale is a poignant blend of youthful innocence and the heavy mantle of responsibility. Bruce Wayne / Batman also epitomizes this theme, living as a billionaire by day and transforming into Gotham’s dark knight as dusk falls. His story is interwoven with themes of vengeance, justice, and the duality of human nature. Walter White / Heisenberg from "Breaking Bad" adds a darker dimension, morphing from a mild-mannered chemistry teacher to a feared drug lord. The stark contrast between his two personas showcases the devastating consequences of his choices and the depths of his resilience and moral fluctuation. These examples merely scratch the surface of the myriad characters with double lives whose tales offer intriguing insights into their mindsets and motivations. Thus, characters leading double lives provide an endless source of fascination, weaving stories that delve into the essence of what it means to balance opposing worlds. Through incredible feats, moral quandaries, and unimaginable sacrifices, these beloved figures reflect the hidden struggles and strength within everyone. They continue to inspire, entertain, and provoke thought, emphasizing the eternal human fascination with living a secret—and often heroic—existence.&nbsp;

Clark Kent / Superman

The Greatest Fictional Characters Leading Double Lives

Fictional Characters with a Double Life or Secret Identity

Ranker Characters

Comic books have given us some of the most iconic captains, each with their own unique brand of leadership and heroism. From commanding starships to leading teams of superheroes, these characters embody qualities that inspire and captivate readers. Whether they're navigating cosmic dilemmas or fighting for justice on Earth, they leave a lasting impression through their courage and charisma. We've put together a list of the best fictional captains from comic books, celebrating those who have captured our imaginations and hearts.Our list includes comic book captains like Captain America, the embodiment of justice and resilience, has long been a pillar of inspiration, wielding his iconic shield in the name of freedom. Captain James T. Kirk, while originating in television, has also made his mark in comic books as a charismatic leader of the USS Enterprise, exploring new worlds and ensuring peace in the galaxy. Then there’s Captain Britain, who, with his mystical powers and duty to protect the UK, adds an intriguing blend of heroism and mythology to the mix.Now, it's your chance to weigh in. Which of these commanding figures stands out as your favorite? Vote on the best fictional captains from comic books in the list below and help us create the ultimate fan-ranked list.

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The Best Fictional Captains From Comic Books, Ranked

The 18 Best Fictional Captains From Comic Books, Ranked

Bobby Bernstein

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The first movie of the Marvel Cinematic Universe premiered in 2008 and it&#39;s almost as if Pandora&#39;s box has been opened and there&#39;s no going back. We&#39;ve seen our favorite heroes endure many challenges over the years and ultimately assemble in 2019 to save the universe from Thanos&nbsp;in&nbsp;one of the most epic movie team-ups&nbsp;of all time. Let&#39;s take a look at the toll the Infinity Saga took on the titular heroes of the MCU by comparing <a class="edS-cl" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/ganbrood-ai-what-historical-figures-looked-like/gordon-cameron?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">what they looked like</a> in their first appearances to their future selves all the way up to&nbsp;Avengers: Endgame.

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14 MCU Heroes' First Appearances Vs. The End Of The Infinity Saga

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Mauricio Viladegutt

These days, it seems everything that hits a television set or movie screen involves superheroes, and while we&#39;re&nbsp;certainly in the midst of a resurgence of the genre, there&#39;s nothing new under the sun.&nbsp;Back in the 1970s, Marvel Comics and DC threw nearly every IP they had at <a href="http://www.ranker.com/list/animated-comic-book-movies-better-than-live-action/stephanroget" target="_blank">developers of animated series</a>, live-action shows, and feature-length motion pictures, and if you&#39;re familiar with the era, you already know those projects look nothing like today&#39;s CGI-laden, mega-budget affairs.

Sure, the effects were often cheesy and the costumes clunky. But to many fans, that hardly mattered when a live-action Spider-Man or Wonder Woman appeared on their TV screens. Here&#39;s are the most memorable examples of a live-action superhero making an appearance on a television show or movie. Check out the entries below&nbsp;and vote up your favorites.

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1970s Live-Action Versions Of Popular Superheroes

1970s Live-Action Versions Of Popular Superheroes, Ranked

Jonathan H. Kantor

The Justice Society of America (JSA) has been a staple in the DC Comics universe since its debut in 1940. This superhero team has won fans with its distinctive characters who are dedicated to upholding justice throughout the years. From comics to television adaptations, the JSA continues to be a popular source of entertainment for audiences worldwide.

Reviewing the best Justice Society members reminds fans of the array of characters developed over decades of storytelling. Each character brings their skills, backgrounds, and personalities into the mix, creating a diverse and engaging ensemble. This wide range of Justice Society heroes is worth exploring to better appreciate the qualities they each bring to the table.

For instance, Doctor Fate is a Justice Society character who stands out as a master of mysticism. With his magical abilities and extensive knowledge about supernatural events, he often plays a crucial role in saving the day. Another example among Justice Society members is Hawkman - equipped with his metal wings and ancient weaponry expertise, he is a valuable member in both land and air combat situations. Then there&#39;s Power Girl - Krypton&#39;s last survivor; she possesses powers comparable to Superman and inspires her teammates with her determination. These are just some highlights from a larger group that showcases significant contributions from all team members.

Ultimately, thinking about the best Justice Society characters allows readers to delve deeper into this extraordinary world. Every hero on this superhero team adds their personal touch, then they work together against evil forces threatening humanity. These heroes make it easy for fans to become invested in their stories and to appreciate the individual accomplishments each character achieve. So if fans want to learn more about their favorite JSA members or discover hidden gems within the lineup, exploring this Justice Society list is a rewarding experience.

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