Marvel Comics is teeming with iconic and awe-inspiring characters, some of whom have had the chance to become fathers. While it’s true that there are many admirable dads like Luke Cage, it’s also worth noting that not all Marvel dads shine in the same light. For every father who exemplifies greatness, there are numerous others who fall short of the mark. What’s troubling is that not all poorly behaved fathers in Marvel can be categorized as villains. We might assume that only supervillains could earn such a title, but it appears that this isn’t always the case. It seems that even humans and heroes can struggle with fatherhood within the pages of comics, and Marvel often highlights this reality for its readers.
Because Marvel characters have a rich past, some fan-favorite figures can be seen as less than ideal parents. Although they might be able to protect the universe consistently, it doesn’t necessarily mean they grasp the basics of being present for their children. Some viewers may shy away from acknowledging this, but contenders for the worst dad title include Cyclops, Hank Pym, Wolverine, and Vision.
10) The Pride – Geoffrey Wilder, Dale Yorkes, Victor Stein, Frank Dean, Dr. Gene Hayes, and Robert Minoru
Fathers of: Alex Wilder, Gert Yorkes, Karolina Dean, Chase Stein, Molly Hayes, and Nico Minoru
In the Marvel Universe, depicted in The Runaways, The Pride serves as a collective of unsavory villains. While grouping them together might technically amount to cheating, each member of this group can be deemed equally detestable. Notable figures among them are Geoffrey Wilder, Dale Yorkes, Victor Stein, Frank Dean, Dr. Gene Hayes, and Robert Minoru. These characters all share a connection as the fathers of the prominent Runaways members, and it’s fair to assert that they are neither good individuals nor responsible parents.
The Faction known as ‘The Pride’ serves the beings called Gibborim, who offered them prosperity in return for human spirits. Additionally, they were assured that they would endure even during the Gibborim’s annihilation of their world; however, this survival was limited by predetermined slots. The arrival of their offspring sparked debates over survivorship, leading to conflict among them. Eventually, these descendants rebelled against their elders, thwarting their ambition to offer more souls in sacrifice. It’s a melancholic moment when children must discipline and educate their parents simultaneously.
9) Howard Stark
Father of: Tony Stark
For each villainous father on this roster, you’ll find another who simply fails to be present for his child. Meet Howard Stark, a man whose dedication was primarily towards his company rather than his son, Tony. At best, he could be labeled as emotionally detached from Tony. This pattern is consistent across different portrayals of their relationship, spanning the comics, Marvel Cinematic Universe, and beyond.
Several aspects contribute to Howard Stark being an especially challenging father figure. His authoritative nature, unattainable demands on Tony, and reluctance to be present for him are some of these factors. Nevertheless, Tony’s passion for technology persisted, with the lingering influence of his father always present.
8) Red Skull
Father of: Sinthia Schmidt
It’s not hard to overlook the fact that The Red Skull is a father; he himself would prefer it that way. You see, Sinthia Schmidt is the daughter he never desired, and he didn’t shy away from expressing his feelings about it. In truth, what The Red Skull truly yearned for was a child, but not a girl. Upon learning that the child was female, his anger was evident. This situation is heart-wrenching even in its recounting, as Sinthia’s mother perished during childbirth. Though he didn’t abandon Sinthia to her own devices or take her life, his affection for her was minimal, extending only as far as permitting her survival.
In the fashion of many supervillains, Red Skull raised Sinthia within his own realm. He imparted his ideology upon her and accelerated her growth (in a very literal sense) by utilizing his technological resources. However, despite investing so much into her upbringing and training, he remained reluctant to acknowledge her as a potential successor to his domain.
7) Norman Osborn
Father of: Henry Osborn
It’s generally acknowledged that Norman Osborn’s actions, particularly towards his family, are not defensible. Over the years, he has committed numerous despicable acts, with some of the most heinous ones being directed at his own kin. While certain plot revisions and continuity adjustments may diminish the impact of these actions in some parts of Marvel’s narrative, they still occurred.
For instance, Norman once offered Henry Osborn’s soul to Mephisto – that’s right! He did it for riches. Other examples of his poor parenting are neglect, belittling, and abuse towards Henry. It’s evident that although he doesn’t always aim to do something as terrible as selling his son’s soul, he falls short in treating his child with basic human respect.
6) Brian Banner
Father of: Bruce Banner
Anyone familiar with Hulk’s comic book series is well aware that Brian Banner is a poor father figure. Brian Banner’s narrative revolves around cycles of mistreatment and violence. As a victim of abuse himself, he initially had no desire to have children. However, the arrival of Bruce, whom Brian perceived as a hidden monster, changed everything. Regrettably, this was not a figurative interpretation; Brian genuinely believed his son carried a “monster gene” and treated him accordingly.
It’s not difficult to surmise the kind of upbringing Bruce Banner must have had in this household, given that various series have explored his psychological background, often focusing on the traumas he endured during these formative years.
5) Kingpin
Father of: Richard Fisk, Butch Pharris, Princess Fisk
In terms of organized crime, the Boss is undoubtedly an effective leader. However, when it comes to fatherhood, there’s no arguing that he falls short. Readers may discuss his role as a husband, but there’s no denying his poor parenting abilities. His eldest child, Richard, initially seemed to embrace his father’s ways, but surprisingly, he chose to distance himself from the family business. Instead, he forged his own path, becoming The Schemer, and sought to dismantle his father’s criminal empire. Despite a brief attempt to share power in a criminal empire with Richard, this collaboration led to Richard’s demise.
From my perspective as a cinema enthusiast, it’s worth noting that there exists Fisk’s biological son, initially known as Butch Pharris, who later adopted his father’s surname. Interestingly, Fisk treated Butch more favorably, bestowing upon him the name, heritage, and responsibilities for a while. Regrettably, none of this amends for the atrocious acts he’s committed against the general public or his own offspring.
4) Odin
Father of: Thor, Loki, Tyr, Ullr, Honir, Bragi, Hermod, Balder, Adrif, Laussa
Odin is frequently portrayed as the All-Father, yet he often comes across as an imperfect father figure. Consider this: He repeatedly doubts his offspring, subjecting them to numerous trials and tribulations. Moreover, he has a tendency to believe himself infallible, causing rifts within the family on more than one occasion. At one point, he even confined Thor’s personality within Dr. Donald Blake. This action was meant to instill morality in his son, but it’s a significant step to take without seeking permission from an individual, especially given its impact.
In another perspective, the manner Odin deals with Loki raises questions. One might argue that if Odin intended to treat him in such a way, he shouldn’t have taken him as his own. However, things are seldom straightforward between them. At the core, this character struggles to bond or trust his offspring. Consequently, he essentially passes the challenge of dealing with Loki onto the universe.
3) Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross
Father of: Betty Ross
As a passionate film enthusiast, I can relate to the character of Thaddeus Ross. Obsessed with my pursuit, much like Ross with the Hulk, I sometimes overlook what truly matters – family and relationships. In his case, he became so engrossed in his mission that he neglected his daughter, Betty Ross, a grave mistake. To add to the tragedy, he stubbornly refused to listen to her heartfelt entreaties, choosing instead to persist on his relentless pursuit.
It can be contended that his actions warrant a place on the list, but unfortunately, it’s not enough to save him. In the story “Death of Betty Ross,” Ross’ relentless pursuit put Betty in grave danger and ultimately led to her demise. This act is unforgivable for any caring parent.
2) Kraven the Hunter
Offspring of Kraven: Kraven’s 87 clones, Vladimir Kravinoff, Alyosha Kravinoff, Ned Tannengarden, Ana Tatiana Kravinoff, Gog, and Gregor Kravinoff
Or simply:
Kraven’s descendants: His 87 clones, Vladimir, Alyosha, Ned, Ana, Gog, and Gregor.
Kraven, well-known for his role as a hunter, is deeply driven by power, prestige, and leaving an enduring legacy. Over time, he’s fathered numerous offspring, some even being clones thanks to the High Evolutionary. He has gained notoriety for having defeated many of his own children, with his eldest being one such example.
Kraven insists that his clone offspring engage in a fight for dominance. Essentially, he commanded his genetically created descendants to wage a lethal battle. The clones, being programmed as such, comply with this directive, resulting in one emerging victorious – a spectacle that gives Kraven a sickening pleasure. This individual is someone who should never be entrusted with the welfare of others, let alone his own children.
1) Thanos
Parent(s) or Originator(s) of: Zor, Dark Dwarf, Nebula, Corvus the Gladiator, Ronan, Proxima Nightfall, Gamora, Thane, and numerous others.
It’s safe to say that many readers would likely concur that Thanos is one of the poorest fathers in the Marvel universe. He’s a ruthless killer who justifies his actions as morally correct, which is quite contradictory. Moreover, he exhibits abusive behavior towards both his biological offspring and those he considers under his care.
There’s a reason he’s known as the Mad Titan – he’s had a history of adopting children from the realms he’s conquered, which isn’t exactly conducive to a healthy bond. And Thanos’s idea of nurturing isn’t exactly wholesome either. He pushes them into rigorous training and combat, and sometimes subjects them to unwanted procedures to enhance their fighting abilities in his eyes.
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2025-06-14 15:41