10 Ghostly Comic Characters You Must Know Before They're Gone

It’s not unusual to encounter supernatural elements in comic book stories. From fire-spitting dragons to heroes from parallel dimensions, readers have seen a wide variety of them. This is why it’s no wonder that comics are filled with characters who are ghostly or spectral, even from well-known publishers like Marvel and DC Comics. These characters often serve to depict the unknown or intensify feelings of grief, making quite an impression on readers. The diversity of ghostly figures is only limited by the creativity of the writers and artists. From ghosts to ghouls, spirits, and specters, there’s a whole range of spectral beings that populate these pages.

As a lover of cinema and all things supernatural, I’ve come to appreciate how spirits and ghosts in comics can take on various roles – not just as villains but also as allies or even heroes. Contrary to popular belief, they don’t always have to embody evil forces, as there are countless benevolent entities that fill the pages of comic books. Some might argue that several characters on this list fit the bill of selfless heroes, working tirelessly to save the day without any personal gain in return. There’s a valuable lesson to be learned from their unselfish actions.

1) Bats

Fans of Marvel comics may recall Bats’ origin story as a deeply moving tale. As a regular basset hound entrusted to Stephen Strange (before he became Sorcerer Supreme), Bats required more care than he received. Despite this, he tragically passed away while trying to protect Strange from Loki. This scene was incredibly emotional for readers, but luckily, Bats’ tale didn’t end there; he reappeared as a spectral dog. Bats then proved to be a devoted and loving companion, just like any good dog would be. He assisted Doctor Strange during ‘Damnation’ and stood by him during ‘War of the Realms’. It’s no surprise that he also collaborated with the Pet Avengers.

2) Izabel

Isabella, often recognized by readers of “Saga“, is a young spirit who captivates many. Still barely a teenager, she tragically stepped on a landmine, but her tale didn’t end there. She formed a close friendship with Alana and Marko, showing particular affinity towards children. Later, she developed a strong bond with Hazel, despite Alana’s attempts to prevent it. Circumstances beyond anyone’s control ultimately determined this connection. Even though she was deceased, Isabella became an integral part of the family dynamic, and her cheerful demeanor made fans adore her. In an unusual twist, Isabella was one of the few characters that readers felt secure in loving due to her already being dead, believing she was safe. Unfortunately, they were terribly mistaken. Her death (doubly tragic death?) stood out as one of the most shocking deaths in a long list of such events.

3) Agatha Harkness

Agatha Harkness is significantly tied to Scarlet Witch’s narrative in Marvel comics, with her role becoming even more prominent due to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Unfortunately, Agatha met her demise at the hands of Nicholas Scratch, despite heroic attempts to save her. However, as a powerful witch in the Marvel universe, death was merely a temporary setback for Agatha. After her passing, she took on a mentoring role for Scarlet Witch, which significantly influenced several key storylines involving Wanda. She imparted knowledge on how to create magical offspring and later led her on the Witches’ Road. Over time, Agatha has experienced multiple deaths and resurrections due to comic book magic and actual supernatural powers. Interestingly, one of her deaths was at the hands of Scarlet Witch herself, symbolizing their intricate relationship dynamics.

4) Amity Arkham

Amity Arkham originates in the stories of Gotham Academy, belonging to the DC Comics universe. Unlike many characters, she’s not from modern times; instead, she was tragically burned at the stake by the early settlers of Gotham City. Her demise was far from peaceful, leading her to place a curse on her tormentors – but not in the conventional way one might expect. Instead, her curse ensured that her kin would be compelled to eliminate the founding families of Gotham, including the very ones who burned her at the stake. This poses quite a challenge for Olive Silverlock, Amity’s latest descendant and student at Gotham Academy. It’s clear how the circumstances surrounding her lineage and location would create a difficult predicament for poor Olive.

5) Dead Boy Detectives

It’s worth noting that not all spirits have pleasant pasts, considering their present circumstances. The Dead Boy Detectives belong to DC Comics’ Vertigo Imprint and the narrative revolves around Edwin Payne and Charles Rowland. As their names suggest, these detectives are no longer alive. Edwin met his end in school back in 1916, while Charles was also killed, albeit later on. Despite this, they managed to prolong Edwin’s existence for a while more than anticipated after death. Their adventures and investigations did not cease with their deaths.

6) Gentleman Ghost

The character known as the Gentleman Ghost is a spectral figure originating from the DC Comics universe. His human identity is James Craddock, but he was often referred to as Gentleman Jim prior to his spectral existence. This nickname eventually stuck and became his moniker. Tragically, he was unjustly murdered for a crime he didn’t commit, which led him to become a spectral outlaw. His criminal activities have earned him a less-than-desirable reputation as a ghost. Notably, he has engaged in battles with Hawkman, Hawkgirl (the modern versions of his killers), Batman, Superman, and the entire Justice Society of America.

7) Deadman

Originally hailing from the vibrant universe of DC Comics, I was once known as Boston Brand, a daring circus acrobat. However, my life took a tragic turn when I was brutally killed by Hook, an assassin. But fate had other plans for me. A serendipitous encounter with a divine Hindu Goddess presented me with an extraordinary choice – one that offered the chance to seek justice for my untimely demise. Naturally, I chose this path. With this decision, I was imbued with an extraordinary power: the ability to possess living beings as a spirit. And so, I transformed into Deadman, a ghostly figure who sought not just to uncover my own murderer, but also to protect and save in my unique way. This earned me a place among the legendary heroes of DC Comics, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with icons like Batman.

8) The Spectre

In a different rendition, The Spectre is another iconic character from DC Comics, widely recognized by many. Previously, Jim Corrigan was just an ordinary police officer. However, after being connected with the Vengeance of God, he transformed into the latest manifestation of The Spectre. Although the narrative is intricate, it essentially goes like this: For him to become a host for the divine entity, Jim had to first pass away. This may sound contradictory, but Jim died while pursuing a criminal syndicate, stubbornly refusing to back down. As a result, he became The Spectre. In the mortal world, The Spectre, with Jim’s spirit and tenacity, has been fighting for righteousness, often working alongside the Justice Society of America and others.

9) Li Hwen Mirage

In simpler terms, Li Hwen Mirage, alongside his spouse Shan Fong, forms a duo that warrants greater recognition. They are the central figures in Valiant Entertainment’s comic book series titled “Doctor Mirage“. Prior to his demise, Li Hwen Mirage was a paranormal investigator, but his tale didn’t conclude there. He was the first Doctor Mirage, with Shan Fong assuming the role after his passing. Similar to her husband, Shan Fong is a parapsychologist and an expert in the paranormal, as well as a television personality. However, what makes them unique is that she can see the dead, enabling her to communicate with her deceased husband. Regrettably, this ability does not permit physical contact, leaving them incredibly close but still distant.

10) Daniel Drumm

To conclude, we come to Daniel Drumm, a character whose tale unfolds in Marvel Comics. Daniel and his brother Jericho are recognized as one of Marvel’s most popular supernatural duos. Their identities might sound familiar – they go by Doctor Voodoo and Brother Voodoo. Interestingly, it was Daniel who decided to delve deeper into the world of voodoo, while Jericho pursued a degree in psychology. Later on, Jericho returned to the path when he discovered that Daniel was gravely ill. Daniel’s last wish was for his spirit to be bound to Jericho, which Jericho honored. This marked the beginning of a new hero’s era, with each twin bringing unique yet crucial abilities. As a spirit, Daniel can inhabit others, including Jericho. He also has an extensive knowledge of voodoo practices, from language to traditions. Over time, the brothers have experienced their fair share of highs and lows, but there’s no denying the strong bond they share.

2025-06-04 00:40

10 Ghostly Comic Characters You Must Know Before They’re Gone