7 Essential Wonder Man Comics to Read Before the Disney+ Series

With the upcoming Disney+ series centered around Wonder Man, comic book fans will have the opportunity to explore the fascinating character of Simon Williams. Introduced in 1964 in “Avengers #9,” Wonder Man transitioned from villain to hero through a series of gripping story arcs. Below are seven essential Wonder Man comics every fan should read to better understand this unique character before the show premieres.

7 Essential Wonder Man Comics to Read

1. Avengers #9 (1964)

Wonder Man made his debut in “Avengers #9,” marking him as one of the earliest villains introduced to the team. Simon Williams, under the influence of Baron Zemo and the Enchantress, was transformed into a superhero against his will. This issue details his initial struggle and eventual sacrifice, hinting at his complex character development.

2. Wonder Man (1985)

In his first solo comic, titled simply “Wonder Man,” Simon showcases his dual life as an actor and a superhero. The story features him auditioning for a soap opera while battling supernatural foes, emphasizing the humorous and quirky aspects of his character.

3. Avengers #158-160

Simon’s return from a death-like coma in these issues marks a significant pivot in his superhero career. His interactions with Vision and the ensuing conflicts highlight his complex emotional struggles, particularly against his brother, the Grim Reaper, and their respective legacies.

4. West Coast Avengers #1-4

As a founding member of the West Coast Avengers, Wonder Man dives into new adventures, bridging his cinematic career with superhero activities. This series also reintroduces his relationship dynamics, especially with Scarlet Witch and Vision, enhancing the personal stakes of the narrative.

5. Avengers Two: Wonder Man & the Beast (2000)

This comic explores Wonder Man’s resurrection by Scarlet Witch and his subsequent journey of self-rediscovery. With the help of his best friend, he launches a nonprofit organization to support those dealing with overwhelming challenges, portraying his growth into a more empathetic hero.

6. West Coast Avengers #45

In this pivotal issue, Wonder Man’s refusal to restore Vision’s brainwaves after his memory loss leads to deep emotional turmoil between him and Scarlet Witch. This conflict significantly impacts their relationship and adds complexity to Simon’s character trajectory.

7. X-Force #49-50

In this series, Wonder Man transformed into a pacifist, avoiding combat. However, when the Beast required his assistance, Simon was reluctantly drawn back into action. His attempt to redeem Beast demonstrates his capacity for friendship and highlights his moral evolution.

By exploring these essential Wonder Man comics, fans can gain a deeper understanding of Simon Williams before diving into the upcoming Disney+ series. These stories not only showcase his evolution from villain to hero but also emphasize the intricate relationships he navigates within the Marvel Universe.