DC’s First 10 Villains, Ranked by Legacy

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Supervillains are a vital part of the comic book world. Though heroes are the focus and inspire us, it’s the villains who really drive the stories. They provide the challenges that allow heroes to demonstrate their abilities and strengths. Today, DC Comics is filled with hundreds of villains, from well-known figures like Reverse-Flash and Darkseid to lesser-known ones like Anarchist and the Brotherhood of the Monkey-Fist, ensuring there’s a villain for every hero and every storyline. For almost ninety years, villains have been key to these stories, and they’ll continue to be, though every villain starts somewhere.

Even the most compelling characters need challenges to drive a story, and villains are the biggest source of those challenges. Today, we’re looking back at DC Comics’ early supervillains, ranking the first ten based on their lasting impact. We’re focusing solely on characters who wear costumes or have superpowers – no regular criminals or gang leaders here. Let’s jump right into the list!

10) The Monk

First appeared in Detective Comics (1937) #31.

The Monk was one of Batman’s very first enemies, and starred in the first two-part story featuring the Dark Knight. Though he rarely appears now, this vampire in red has become a symbol of Batman’s early adventures. The Monk’s story perfectly captures the gothic feel of that era, largely thanks to the unforgettable cover of his first comic book. However, despite being an important figure from Batman’s past, the Monk himself hasn’t actually played a significant role in the overall Batman story – he’s mainly remembered for that striking cover art.

9) Doctor Death

First appeared in Detective Comics (1937) #29.

I’ve always been fascinated by Doctor Death – he really was Batman’s very first supervillain! It’s incredible to think about how he used his knowledge of chemistry to concoct all sorts of dangerous poisons. And what’s even more mind-blowing is that he actually altered his own skeleton, turning it into a weapon! He doesn’t appear all the time, but he was the first villain to return and challenge Batman, showing up again pretty early on. He’s a bit more consistently present than some of the really obscure villains, and honestly, being the first villain Batman ever faced is enough to make him a standout – that’s why I think he deserves a spot among the most memorable.

8) Hath-Set

First appeared in Flash Comics #1.

Even though he’s largely forgotten now and mostly shows up in memories, Hath-Set is a crucial part of DC Universe history. This ancient Egyptian priest killed Prince Khufu and Princess Shiera using a special dagger, which unexpectedly linked him to their repeated rebirths. Because of him, Hawkman and Hawkgirl always thought their story began in ancient Egypt, and it complicated their understanding of their home planet, Thanagar. Considering how important Hawkman and Hawkgirl are to the DC Universe’s timeline, Hath-Set’s huge influence on their beginnings earns him a spot as eighth most impactful character on this list.

7) Doctor Sivana

First appeared in Whiz Comics #2. 

Even though Doctor Sivana didn’t start with DC Comics, they later acquired the character, making him one of their original villains. Sivana was Shazam’s first major enemy and remains a significant threat. While Shazam was created as a different kind of Superman, Sivana filled the role of his Lex Luthor – a brilliant, inventive villain who constantly challenged the hero with elaborate schemes and almost took over the world. You can always expect Sivana to be involved whenever Shazam is the focus of a story.

6) Ultra-Humanite

First appeared in Action Comics (1938) #13.

The Ultra-Humanite holds a unique place in DC Comics history as the very first supervillain. He was Superman’s initial foe, constantly challenging the hero and becoming a persistent enemy. While Lex Luthor eventually took over as Superman’s main rival, the Ultra-Humanite was first, repeatedly plotting against the Man of Tomorrow, though always failing. He was groundbreaking for his time, introducing the idea of super-intelligent, technologically advanced criminals to the DC Universe. Even today, the Ultra-Humanite still appears occasionally, remaining a significant, though often overlooked, villain.

5) Hugo Strange

First appeared in Detective Comics (1937) #36.

Hugo Strange holds the unique distinction of being Batman’s very first recurring enemy. Though not as widely recognized as the Joker, he remains one of Batman’s most prominent villains. Strange stands out as Batman’s personal psychologist, constantly questioning Batman’s understanding of himself and his reality. While he hasn’t reached the peak of popularity enjoyed by some other villains, Hugo Strange is undeniably one of the most significant figures in Batman’s rogue gallery.

4) Clayface

First appeared in Detective Comics (1937) #40.

When it comes to villains with lasting influence – considering all those who’ve taken on the same name – Clayface would easily be the winner. There have been five different versions of Clayface over the years, but the original, Basil Karlo, is the most famous. Clayface is one of Batman’s most consistently revisited enemies, constantly being updated and made even more frightening. He began as an actor with a flexible face, and has evolved into a being made entirely of clay, capable of transforming into almost anything imaginable. The fact that he’s even getting his own movie in the DC Universe proves just how significant Clayface’s legacy has become.

3) Catwoman

First appeared in Batman (1940) #1.

Selina Kyle, known as Catwoman, has been a key figure in Batman’s world since his very beginning. She’s DC’s most skilled thief, relying on her own abilities to break into any secure location. When something needs to be stolen or a place needs infiltrating, she’s the go-to expert. Beyond her incredible skills, Catwoman is also a major love interest for Batman, and many consider her his primary one. Their connection has endured across nearly every version of the story, consistently portraying them as a perfect match.

2) Lex Luthor

First appeared in Action Comics (1938) #23.

Lex Luthor is Superman’s greatest enemy, and is widely considered one of the most significant villains in comic book history. While others have tried to challenge Superman, Luthor truly captivated readers and presented a formidable threat. Today, he’s seen as the ultimate villain, often leading groups of evil-doers in their plans. He’s been involved in countless storylines, consistently demonstrating the power and potential of villains. He’s a unique character, but one villain could arguably have an even more lasting impact.

1) The Joker

First appeared in Batman (1940) #1.

The Joker is Batman’s greatest enemy, and arguably one of the most famous villains ever created. Known as the Clown Prince of Crime, he can drastically change Gotham City overnight, leaving Batman to deal with the chaos and constantly challenging the limits of villainy. He’s a central figure in almost every great Batman story and appears more frequently – and with more impact – than any other villain. The Joker has been portrayed in nearly as many ways as Batman himself, making him a well-known character even to casual superhero fans. He truly embodies the concept of an archenemy and continues to be a compelling figure today.

I’m really curious – who do you think is the most impactful supervillain of all time? Let’s talk about it! Head over to the ComicBook Forum and share your thoughts – I’ll be there to discuss it with you!

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2026-02-24 02:45