Wonder Man is on his way to Disney+, bringing an intriguing character with a complex history to the spotlight. Created by Marvel Comics, Simon Williams made his first appearance in Avengers #9 in 1964. Initially introduced as a villain, Wonder Man’s journey transformed him into a pivotal hero in the Marvel Universe.
Top 7 Wonder Man Comics to Read Before the Disney+ Series
With the upcoming series, understanding Wonder Man’s comic book legacy is essential. Here are seven must-read stories that define the character.
1. Avengers #9 (1964)
- Wonder Man debuted as a villain under Baron Zemo’s influence.
- Betrayed by the Masters of Evil, he gained powers but was forced to betray the Avengers.
- Ultimately, he sacrificed himself for the greater good, marking the start of his redemption arc.
2. Wonder Man (1985)
- This one-issue comic marked Wonder Man’s first solo story.
- It explores Simon’s life as an actor while balancing superhero duties.
- Featuring quirky battles, it highlights Wonder Man’s unique character.
3. Avengers #158-160
- Wonder Man returns from a death-like coma, free from the serum dependency.
- His rejoining the Avengers creates friction, especially with Vision.
- The arc includes a confrontation with his brother, the Grim Reaper.
4. West Coast Avengers #1-4
- Wonder Man joins the West Coast Avengers, transitioning from stuntman to hero.
- The storyline intertwines with his ongoing battle against his brother and includes love interests.
5. Avengers Two: Wonder Man & the Beast (2000)
- Resurrected by Scarlet Witch, Wonder Man grapples with his past trauma.
- He uses his acting fame to create a nonprofit aimed at helping others.
6. West Coast Avengers #45
- This issue focuses on Vision being reassembled, now devoid of memories.
- Simon faces a moral dilemma when asked to restore Vision’s brainwaves.
7. X-Force #49-50
- Wonder Man moves toward pacifism but gets drawn back into action when X-Force needs him.
- The story explores themes of friendship and redemption as he confronts an evil version of Beast.
These seven comics are critical for both longtime fans and newcomers to Wonder Man’s story. They illustrate his complexities and growth, setting the stage for his evolution in the upcoming Disney+ series.
