5 Characters DC Copied From Marvel That You Might Not Know About

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Both DC and Marvel are known for their iconic characters, like Batman and Spider-Man, that comic book fans adore. These characters have become deeply ingrained in the minds of readers who consistently follow the exciting journeys of their favorite heroes. They’ve starred in popular movies that comic fans enjoy and were featured in the cartoons many of us grew up with. It’s easy for any reader to name their favorite DC or Marvel character and discuss the memorable story arcs they appeared in.

As a big fan of both DC and Marvel, I’ve always noticed how similar some of their characters are. It’s pretty clear that over the years, both companies have borrowed ideas from each other. There were definitely times when they’d lift traits or characteristics from a successful character on the other side. Sometimes it was a straight-up copy, and other times they’d poke fun at their rivals by creating a parody. Honestly, it seems like DC has been guilty of this more often – they’ve created so many characters who feel like counterparts to Marvel heroes. It’s just something I’ve picked up on as I’ve followed both universes!

5) Aquaman (Copied From Namor the Sub-Mariner)

Namor the Sub-Mariner first appeared in Marvel comics in 1939, originating from the underwater kingdom of Atlantis. Two years later, in 1941, DC Comics introduced Aquaman, another hero with roots in Atlantis. Both characters possess extraordinary powers, including the ability to talk to marine life. Although Aquaman and Namor have distinct appearances, they share many common characteristics, suggesting that DC drew some inspiration from Marvel. This was one of the first examples of these two publishing companies borrowing ideas from each other, a practice that continued for many years. Learn more about comic book history. This rivalry and cross-pollination of ideas helped shape the superhero genre. It’s a fascinating part of comic book lore!

4) Red Tool (Copied From Deadpool)

Wayne Wilkins, also known as Red Tool, first appeared in Harley Quinn #3. He was created as a humorous take on Marvel’s Deadpool. Red Tool’s costume closely resembled Deadpool’s, and he shared a similarly violent personality. This DC character used various tools as weapons and, after having a brain tumor removed, became incapable of feeling pain. Red Tool was intentionally over-the-top and served as a pretty obvious parody of Deadpool, ultimately becoming one of Harley Quinn’s allies. He’s a bit of a wildcard!

3) Bumblebee (Copied From Wasp)

The Wasp was a founding member of the Avengers, first appearing in 1963. She’s been a consistent presence in Marvel comics ever since, and even served as the basis for the DC character Bumblebee, who debuted in 1976. Similar to the Wasp, Bumblebee possesses the ability to change her size and uses her suit to create electricity. Both heroes have been key members of important teams – the Wasp with the Avengers and Bumblebee with the Teen Titans. The strong influence of DC’s character demonstrates that the publisher wasn’t hesitant to borrow ideas when necessary.

2) Red Hood (Copied From The Winter Soldier)

Both DC and Marvel Comics feature plenty of antiheroes – characters willing to do whatever’s necessary to defeat villains, even if it means going against traditional heroes. Interestingly, each publisher has an antihero who started as a sidekick to a famous hero, experienced a heartbreaking death, and was resurrected with a dramatically changed outlook on life. For Marvel, that character is the Winter Soldier, first appearing in 2004. DC’s equivalent is the Red Hood, who debuted in 2005. Despite their different appearances, these two characters share remarkably similar backstories and a comparable philosophy when it comes to delivering justice. Learn more about antiheroes.

1) Swamp Thing (Copied From Man-Thing)

Both DC’s Swamp Thing and Marvel’s Man-Thing debuted in 1971, just a month apart. The two characters share striking resemblances in their looks, names, abilities, and backstories. This is largely because Len Wein and Gerry Conway, the creators of Swamp Thing and Man-Thing respectively, were roommates during the creative process. It’s a clear instance of creators influencing each other, resulting in remarkably similar characters. While the two have evolved on their own paths over the decades since their release, the similarities remain blatantly obvious to readers.

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2025-09-30 21:44