5 Times Thor’s Hammer Found a Worthy Hero (Besides Thor)

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Mjölnir, Thor’s iconic hammer, has a detailed history in Marvel Comics that goes beyond just being a weapon. It first appeared in Journey into Mystery #83 in 1962 and has since become a symbol of both Thor and heroic values. The hammer was created by dwarven blacksmiths, Brokkr and Sindri, using Uru, an incredibly strong metal, in the core of a collapsing star. Later, Odin added a powerful enchantment because Mjölnir was too dangerous for anyone but the worthy to wield, as its immense power could cause widespread devastation.

This magical enchantment didn’t just limit who could lift the hammer; it also allowed it to control powerful energy, create storms, and amplify Thor’s divine powers. Mjölnir doesn’t respond to physical strength or fighting ability alone. It chooses those who are brave, selfless, and have strong moral principles. Being worthy isn’t about being perfect, but about having good intentions and a pure heart. Even Thor has been found unworthy at times, proving that Mjölnir holds everyone, even its main user, to a high standard.

5. Beta Ray Bill

When Beta Ray Bill proved worthy to lift Mjölnir, Thor’s enchanted hammer, it was a huge surprise in the Marvel Universe. First appearing in Thor #337 by Walt Simonson, Bill was presented as a powerful alien defending his people, the Korbinites. He initially fought Thor, seeming like a villain competing for Mjölnir. However, in a shocking turn of events, Bill unexpectedly lifted the hammer during their battle. Even Odin, the All-Father, was amazed and declared Bill worthy, temporarily taking the hammer away from Thor.

As a thank you, Odin created Stormbreaker, a weapon just as powerful as Mjölnir, for Bill. This story introduced a new hero and broadened the lore surrounding Mjölnir, showing that anyone can be worthy, not just Asgardian royalty. Bill’s story is a prime example of Marvel surprising fans and challenging what they expect.

4. Captain America

One of the most exciting moments in Marvel Comics happens in Fear Itself #7. During a fierce battle, Captain America, known for his strong character, lifts Thor’s hammer, Mjölnir. With Thor unable to fight and Earth facing total destruction, Cap demonstrates he’s worthy by showing courage, humility, and a firm sense of right and wrong – exactly what the hammer demands. It’s incredibly thrilling to see him wield Mjölnir, as he inspires the Avengers and leads them to victory against the Serpent. This moment proves that humans can fight alongside gods when everything is on the line.

3. Jane Foster

Jane Foster’s story of becoming Thor, as written by Jason Aaron in his popular comic run (Thor vol. 4, starting in 2014), is a truly remarkable one in Marvel’s recent history. When the original Thor proves unworthy of his hammer, Mjölnir, it chooses Jane, a woman already fighting cancer. Despite being physically weak, Jane gains the power of Thor whenever she lifts the hammer, becoming a goddess. This transformation is incredibly moving because while it temporarily heals her from cancer treatment, it ultimately makes her illness worse. Even knowing this, she bravely continues to fight for justice.

Jane’s journey, dealing with her own limits and finding inner strength, resonated with many viewers and made her a truly inspiring character. While some fans doubted anyone could fill Thor’s shoes, Jane proved that the power of Mjölnir isn’t about who you are born as, or even physical power – it chooses those with genuine heroic qualities.

2. Storm

In X-Men: To Serve and Protect #3, Storm experiences a powerful moment when she temporarily lifts Mjölnir, Thor’s hammer, highlighting her strong link to the natural world. The story begins with Thor giving Storm a magical hammer called Stormcaster, originally made by Loki. When Storm touches Stormcaster, she becomes a “Thunder Goddess,” but the hammer starts to control her. To save her, Thor asks her to lift Mjölnir with him. Together, they combine the power of both hammers and destroy Stormcaster.

Even though Storm doesn’t use Mjölnir by herself, the scene highlights that she’s fundamentally worthy, just like Thor. Her power over the weather is similar to Thor’s, making her a fitting equal and partner to the God of Thunder.

1. Superman: The Ultimate “What If?”

As a huge comic book and film fan, one moment that always sticks with me is from the JLA/Avengers crossover event back in 2003. It’s this incredible scene where Superman actually lifts Thor’s hammer, Mjölnir! The story sets up a rule that no one from the DC Universe should be able to do that, but Superman’s just… different. His pure heart and strong sense of right and wrong somehow make it possible. Seeing him with both Mjölnir and Captain America’s shield is just iconic, and fans are still buzzing about it years later. It’s a ‘what if’ scenario, sure, but it really highlights how similar Superman and Thor are – they’re both these incredibly powerful heroes who are always doing what they believe is right, no matter what.

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2025-12-24 20:12