10 Forgotten Characters Who Deserve a Modern Makeover

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Every year, superhero comics often present numerous new characters, some of which quickly gain popularity among fans and stay relevant, while others fail to create the same impact, eventually fading into obscurity. Even well-known superheroes risk being overlooked if they’re not regularly featured in ongoing storylines. With an ever-growing number of heroes saving the day, it can be challenging to keep track. However, most readers have a favorite hero, whether they’ve last appeared in a comic yesterday or years ago. In light of this, we anticipate these ten heroes will return with a fresh, contemporary twist.

Publishers strive to ensure that beloved characters don’t slip through the gaps unnoticed. However, due to the constant handover of series from one creative team to another, it can sometimes happen. Each new team tends to favor certain characters they wish to emphasize. We understand this, and while we acknowledge it might occur, we’ll keep our fingers crossed for their comeback.

1) Starling (DC)

Starling, originally known as Evelyn Crawford, initially became the inaugural member of the Black Canary’s Birds of Prey, although this has been altered over time. Her long-standing friendship with Dinah Lance accounts for her readiness to aid her comrade in a coordinated team setting. Distinct from many other superheroes or even fellow Birds of Prey members, Starling lacks traditional superpowers. Instead, she is proficient in acrobatics, weaponry, and close-combat techniques. Additionally, she has skills in pickpocketing, making it advisable to maintain a safe distance from her.

Starling has been rather scarce since her stint with the Birds of Prey. This could be due to her betrayal of Dinah and the rest of the team, but let’s face it, it added an intriguing twist to the story! She informed Mr. Freeze against the team, only to receive a Canary Cry in retaliation. Oh dear.

2) Justice (Marvel)

Vance Astrovik, also known as Justice, is a Marvel character who’s had quite an adventure since his debut. Originally, he was one of the founding members of the New Warriors, but back then he went by another superhero name (Marvel Boy). In essence, he’s like Earth-616’s version of Major Victory from the Guardians of the Galaxy, a role that carries quite a heavy responsibility.

Justice possesses the ability to harness psychokinetic power, transforming it into defensive force fields or enhancing his abilities such as flight and energy blasts. He’s an exceptional hero who has dedicated himself to growth and self-improvement. As a result, he’s collaborated with numerous Marvel teams, including the Secret Avengers, Avengers Academy, and yes, even the main Avengers (in case you didn’t know, he was a reserve member). His latest appearance was in the reboot of New Warriors, though this run only lasted for about a dozen issues.

3) Ragman (DC)

Rory Regan, also known as Ragman, truly embodies his moniker. His attire appears to be nothing more than tattered rags and fragments of cloth, intentionally so. He takes on criminal activities while draped in a shabby cape, a unique piece crafted from the Suit of Souls. This cape possesses magical properties, allowing him to manipulate energy or movement as a result.

Ragman is a long-standing DC Comics vigilante, known for battling crime in Gotham City. Given the presence of Batman, it can be tough to make an impact. However, he’s shown a desire to change the world, even temporarily joining forces with Justice League Dark. It’s high time for Ragman to regain the spotlight, and we’re eager to see what a contemporary version of his cloak might look like.

4) Wonder Man (Marvel)

It appears there’s been quite a buzz surrounding Wonder Man lately, making now an ideal moment to reintroduce this intriguing character into the limelight. Originally an actor, Simon Williams transitioned into a superhero and boasts an engaging past within Marvel Comics. Considering his debut in the 1960s, it’s safe to say he has had ample time to develop a captivating backstory.

Man Wonder boasts an ionic energy structure, superhuman might, swiftness, and other typical superhero skills. He’s been a significant part of numerous Marvel milestones, even those from recent times like the War of the Realms. Lately, he’s appeared in the Infinity Comics series, but now is the ideal moment to launch a solo comic book series for him and bring it into publication.

5) Jinny Hex (DC)

Does anyone recall the character Jonah Hex? Many readers of DC Comics would likely recognize his name. Yet, they might not be as familiar with Jinny Hex, who is Jonah’s great-great-granddaughter. While Jonah was typically portrayed as an anti-hero, Jinny strives to embody a heroic role and maintains a more positive outlook on life.

Jinny Hex possesses unique powers that set her apart from Jonah Hex. For instance, she’s essentially immortal, capable of absorbing energy, and potentially has other talents yet to be fully explored. She’s on a journey to comprehend the full extent of these abilities better. In her past, Jinny was an esteemed member of the Young Justice League, although regrettably, the team is no longer active. There’s hope that one day, they might reunite, with Jinny being part of the reassembled team once more.

6) Darkhawk (Marvel)

Christopher Powell, better known as Darkhawk, has been a staple character in Marvel Comics since the 1990s. Lately, though, it seems like this hero hasn’t had the best luck. Right now, he’s sort of stuck in an uncertain place. While he gave up his life to buy some crucial time for the universe, the lack of definitive information about his status has left fans questioning his fate. But, there’s still a glimmer of possibility that he might reappear!

Since then, another Darkhawk has emerged, but fans yearn for Christopher Powell’s return to the role. He’s a cosmic hero with profound ties to the Marvel Universe, having been part of the original Civil War, teaming up with numerous iconic heroes, and consistently striving to rescue the day. Chris’s story deserves a clear resolution, so let’s hope we get to see him again soon.

7) Doctor Light (DC)

It’s possible that Kimiyo Hoshi may have created some confusion when she assumed the role of Doctor Light. Indeed, this implies there are now two Doctor Lights in the DC Universe, one being a hero and the other a villain. Kimiyo is the heroic version, making her debut during the Crisis on Infinite Earths. She left quite an impression, almost literally so, as she proved to be a formidable force during the fight against the Anti-Matter. Consequently, it may be challenging to overlook her heroics.

The character known as Doctor Light is associated with the Radiant Force of Creation, which she utilized to aid in the preservation of the cosmos. Beyond this extraordinary ability, she possesses a robust set of powers such as passing through solid objects, soaring through the skies, and projecting light. Notably, despite her significant role in saving the universe, Doctor Light is seldom seen these days.

8) Songbird (Marvel)

In the Marvel Comics universe, Melissa Gold, also known as Songbird, is a character with a complex past. Initially aligned with villainy and going by Screaming Mimi, she was part of Baron Zemo’s Masters of Evil, which suggests her inclinations. During this period, she developed feelings for Angar and was deeply affected by his demise. This background is significant because after Angar’s death, Melissa dedicated herself to transforming the Masters of Evil into a seemingly heroic team, known as the Thunderbolts.

Over time, one event after another unfolded, and Melissa discovered her affinity for being a superhero. Known as Songbird, she eventually teamed up with the Thunderbolts when they transformed into a legitimate superhero group. With her innate ability to form friendships and enemies alike, her narrative is almost always captivating or intriguing. Lately, Melissa has been appearing more often in the Thunderbolts’ revival due to the movie’s success. It seems now is the perfect moment for her to truly take center stage and star in a solo series.

9) Doctor Occult (DC)

As a devoted comics enthusiast, I can’t help but appreciate the enduring legacy of Osgood Armsby, more famously known as Doctor Richard Occult or simply Doctor Occult in the DC Universe. This character has weathered numerous cosmic resets, yet he hasn’t exactly been in the spotlight lately. He’s the Ghost Detective, a title that, yes, implies he’s passed on to the other side.

As a passionate movie buff, I’d rephrase it like this: During World War II, I’ve come to know him as a magician who walked among us. He later assumed the mantle of guardian for the House of Mysteries, which perhaps led to his demise. Yet, in the realm of comic books, anything can happen. So, keep your eyes peeled for the potential spectacular comeback of Doctor Occult!

10) Paladin (Marvel)

Lastly, but by no means least, there’s Paladin – a Marvel Comics character who operates as a mercenary. Unlike certain other characters in his field, he has successfully managed to maintain the mystery of his true identity. As a result, his real persona remains hidden behind his stylish spectacles. What we do know is that he serves dual roles as a private investigator and a hired gun, implying that he’s willing to take on any task for the right compensation.

In various Marvel Comics stories, Paladin has displayed some intriguing decisions. He accepted payment to pursue the Purple Man, a potentially hazardous task, engaged in brawls with Daredevil, and accepted assignments from Diamondback. Additionally, he’s been employed by Silver Sable’s mercenary group. In essence, Paladin manages to maintain a neutral position within Marvel Comics, never fully aligning himself with either side.

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2025-07-29 19:15