Marvel tests Darkhawk return
Darkhawk, the cult-favourite superhero of the ’90s, is returning to his own Marvel Comics series (if ever so briefly) this fall.
It’s part of the publisher’s Marvel Legacy event that will see the return of many classic heroes and villains.
Unlike other characters (Deadpool, Cable) who came to define the decade and still have a strong presence in comics today, Darkhawk’s series never made it out of the ’90s.
The Tom DeFalco/Mike Manleycreated comic debuted in 1991 and ended in 1995 after 50 issues.
Since then, Darkhawk has appeared in other Marvel series (Avengers Arena) and events (War of Kings) but has never returned to his own comic.
Darkhawk centred on a young teen, Chris Powell, who discovered an amulet that transformed him into an armoured android.
The original ’90s series hilariously almost always featured guest appearances from other heroes. Spider-Man, Daredevil, Captain America and the Punisher all made cameos in the series before it reached its 10th issue.
If you’re a fan of Darkhawk who has been awaiting a return to his own series, this announcement is bittersweet.
While a new issue will debut this fall and will resume the numbering of the original series (the new comic will be issue No. 51), the return is a one-shot.
Darkhawk No. 51 will be written by Chad Bowers and Christopher Sims, with art by Kev Walker.
The trio will use the one issue they have to focus on what Darkhawk has been up to since his series ended as they attempt to make him a key player in the Marvel Comics universe once again.
The Fraternity of Raptors, beings who share similar armour to Darkhawk and recently appeared in issues of Guardians of the Galaxy, figure into their plot plans as two raptors will arrive in New York looking to steal Powell’s amulet.
For Marvel Comics, this is a winwin situation.
They’re bringing back a hero many fans have missed, giving him one issue, and seeing what happens.
If the buzz is minimal, they can say they gave Darkhawk one more issue to attempt to tie up some loose ends in his story.
If fan response is enthusiastic, perhaps it could lead to Darkhawk once again starring in an ongoing series.