Fate, Fate's Legacy, Sorcerer Supreme,[1] Earth's Mightiest Sorcerer,[2] Mighty Sorcerer,[3] Mantle of Mystic Master,[4] Immortal Doctor Fate,[5] Ageless Archmage[6]
Abilities
Various mystical powers gained through the magical artifacts (Helmet of Fate, Amulet of Anubis, Cloak of Destiny); powers typically include spell-casting, illusion casting, astral projection, elemental control etc.
Eight characters have served as incarnations within the main continuity, each attempting to reinvigorate the character for contemporary audiences.[7][8] The most well-known version of the character is Kent Nelson,[8] the original Doctor Fate and archaeologist who is empowered by Nabu of the Lords of Order. The current version of the character, Khalid Nassour, is an Egyptian-Americanphysician (originally medical student) empowered by the Egyptian gods and archangels[9] and has received critical acclaim.[10] Other versions of the character include step-mother/son duo Eric and Linda Strauss, archaeologist Inza Cramer, smuggler Jared Stevens, former psychiatristKent V. Nelson, and the reincarnated son of Hawkman and Hawkgirl, Hector Hall.
The character has appeared in various incarnations across multiple forms of media based on both the comics and original characters; the Kent Nelson version notably appeared in the television series Smallville, in which he was portrayed by Brent Stait, and the DC Extended Universe film Black Adam, in which he was portrayed by Pierce Brosnan. The Khalid Nassour version debuted in the Young Justice animated television series alongside others based upon pre-existing characters not typically associated with the character's comic book iterations, including Giovonni Zatara, Zatanna Zatara, and Traci 13.
Creation
In a 1987 interview, Fox recalled the genesis behind Fate, stating, "Doctor Fate (I originally called him Doctor Droon, but the name was editorially changed) was one of my favorites. I created him and even sketched out the original costume he would wear - but that costume was changed by artists over the years, for one reason or another. To my knowledge, I wrote all the Dr. Fate yarns that appeared, up until 1968, when I left comic book writing to a great degree. I always liked the supernatural; I read Lovecraft, Derleth, Sax Rohmer, Howard, Clark Ashton Smith, Whitehead, all the others, Fate was a derivation from my imagination influenced by those writings"[11]
Publication history
Golden, Silver, and Bronze Age of Comics (1940 - 1985)
The original version of the character, Kent Nelson, first appeared in his own self-titled six page strip in More Fun Comics #55 (May 1940), during the Golden Age of Comic Books, created by writer Gardner Fox and artist Howard Sherman, who produced the first three years of monthly Doctor Fate stories.[12] Soon after, the character's origin shown in More Fun Comics #67 (May 1941).[13] Stories during the Golden Age included his love interest, Inza, who was known variably throughout the Golden Age as Inza Cramer,[14] Inza Sanders,[15][16] and Inza Carmer.[17][18][19][20] When the Justice Society of America was created for All Star Comics #3 (Winter 1940), Doctor Fate was one of the characters National Comics used for the joint venture with All-American Publications. He made his last appearance within the book in issue #21 (Summer 1944), virtually simultaneously with the end of his own strip in More Fun Comics #98 (July–August 1944).
The character later appeared in book such as the annual JSA/JLA team-ups in Justice League of America that began in 1963 and est Comics #201 (March 1971 and #208, December 1971); an appearance with Batman in The Brave and the Bold #156 (November 1979); and a solo story in 1st Issue Special #9 (December 1975), written by Martin Pasko and drawn by Walt Simonson. Doctor Fate and the rest of The Justice Society returned to All-Star Comics in 1976 with issue #58, for a two-year run ending with issue #74 and Adventure Comics #461-462 in 1978, and Adventure Comics #466 related the untold tale of the Justice Society's 1951 disbanding. During this period, Inza Cramer's name as such was amended.[21]
During the Bronze Age, the character's origin was retold in DC Special Series #10, and Doctor Fate again teamed up with Superman in DC Comics Presents #23 (July 1980), and featured in a series of back-up stories running in The Flash from #306 (February 1982) to No. 313 (September 1982) written by Martin Pasko (aided by Steve Gerber from #310 to No. 313) and drawn by Keith Giffen.[22] In 1981,DC's All-Star Squadron elaborated upon the adventures of many World War II-era heroes, including Doctor Fate and the JSA. Doctor Fate made occasional modern-day appearances in Infinity, Inc. throughout 1984, the same year which witnessed the 22nd and final annual Justice Society/Justice League team-up.[23] In 1985, DC collected the Doctor Fate back-up stories from The Flash, a retelling of Doctor Fate's origin by Paul Levitz, Joe Staton, and Michael Nasser originally published in Secret Origins of Super-Heroes (January 1978) (DC Special Series #10 in the Indicia), the Pasko/Simonson Doctor Fate story from 1st Issue Special #9, and a Doctor Fate tale from More Fun Comics #56 (June 1940), in a three-issue limited series titled The Immortal Doctor Fate.
Doctor Fate later appeared in several issues of the Crisis on Infinite Earths, assisting various heroes from the DC Multiverse battle the Anti-Monitor and later Amethyst.[24][25] Despite the significant alterations to various histories resulting from the crisis, much of Kent Nelson's personal history remained largely unaffected, although much of the earlier stories during the Golden Age were retconned out.
Modern Age (1985 - 2011)
In 1987, the Doctor Fate limited series was released, featuring the debut of Eric and Linda Strauss. The characters would replace Kent Nelson as Doctor Fate, whom is killed off in the series.[26] A subsequential ongoing series was released focusing on the former two characters, the first twenty-four issues having been written and drawn by J.M. DeMatteis and Shawn McManus, starting in the winter of 1988. The series' premise involved the pair under the guidance of Nabu, whom inhabited and taken Kent Nelson's identity. The series' also establishes a supporting cast for the characters, the recurring concept of kali yuga amongst the Lords of Chaos and Order, a period where chaos reigns and order is defeat, and established the incarnations to be the result of reincarnation cycles. During DeMatteis's run, the series experienced limited sales.[8] Doctor Fate would also appear in several other crossovers and storylines, including Millennium and Cosmic Odyssey). Both characters are killed off halfway into the series, replaced by resurrected Inza and Kent Nelson from issue #25 onward in 1991. The series ended with issue #41.[27] and following Zero Hour, DC killed off both Kent and Inza.
A new incarnation, Jared Stevens, was introduced in a self-titled series called Fate, launched in the wake of Zero Hour in 1994.[28] The Doctor Fate character went through a radical redesign, dropping the "Doctor" title and gaining new weapons made from the previous related artifacts of Doctor Fate. Unlike prior depictions of the Doctor Fate character as a sorcerer, the character was instead a demon hunter.[29] Considered an unpopular re-imagining of the character,[7] the series was cancelled after 23 issues in September 1996. The character then starred in The Book of Fate written by Keith Giffen, which ran from February 1997 to January 1998 for twelve issues as part of DC's "Weirdoverse" imprint, rebooting the character's origins and adventures. However, the revival of the JSA title in 1991 allowed an opportunity for the Doctor Fate character to be reworked, with Jared Stevens subsequently killed off.[30][31]
The next incarnation of Doctor Fate would come in the form of Hector Hall, the son of the Golden Age Hawkman and Hawkgirl who is reincarnated due to the machinations of a supervillain. A fan-favorite incarnation,[32] the character was featured in the JSA title and a five issue Doctor Fate limited series in 2003.[33] The character was killed in the Day of Vengeance limited series in 2005 as part of the lead in to the 2005 company-wide event story, Infinite Crisis.[34]
In 2007, a new incarnation of Doctor Fate, Kent V. Nelson, was created by Steve Gerber and Justiniano and served as an attempt to revitalize the Doctor Fate character. Unlike prior depictions, the character is instead no longer rooted in Egyptian/Mesopotamian mythology and is no longer associated with the Lords of Chaos and Order, due to their being killed off during Infinite Crisis. Gerber also stated his intentions of not directly contradicting previous runs while raising the subject as little as possible. The character was also the grand-nephew of the original Doctor Fate, establishing a connection to the most recognized Doctor Fate.[8][35] Due to Steve Gerber's death, the seventh issue was written by Adam Beechen using Gerber's notes. The final issue was written by Beechen, Gail Simone, Mark Waid, and Mark Evanier, who each wrote a different ending to the story.[36] The character would appear in the Reign in Hell miniseries[37] and in Justice Society of America (vol. 3) #30 (August 2009), featuring in the book until its cancellation with #54 in August 2011.
The New 52 and beyond (2011 - present)
Textless cover of Doctor Fate #13 depicting both Kent Nelson and the newly created incarnation, Khalid Nassour, as Doctor Fate.
Following the events of the Flashpoint mini-series in 2011, DC's continuity was rebooted. As part of The New 52 initiative, an alternate version of Doctor Fate named Khalid Ben-Hassin was created by writer James Robinson[38] and artist Brett Booth. The character was featured in the Earth 2 ongoing series from #9 (February 2013) onwards.[39]
After the conclusion of the Convergence limited series in June 2015, DC launched a new Doctor Fate ongoing series, written by Paul Levitz and drawn by Sonny Liew as part of the DC You initiative, which saw an emphasis on "story over continuity", loosening the restrictions of continuity to allow for a diverse range of genres while some characters underwent status quo changes. The title focused on the newest and most recent incarnation of Doctor Fate, an Egyptian-American medical student named Khalid Nassour.[9] Created with an emphasis on diversity and inspired by Marvel Comics heroes Spider-Man and Doctor Strange,[40] the series also rebooted he Kent Nelson character, depicting him as a previous Doctor Fate, a mentor figure with some of his old histories intact. The series ran for 18 issues, from June 2015 to November 2016.[41]
In 2018, DC launched a second Justice League Dark series written by James Tynion IV starring a new roster led by Wonder Woman. In this roster, Khalid and Kent Nelson were revealed to be eventual new members of the Justice League, originally acting as "advisors" in the team and becoming reoccurring characters. Nassour would eventually permanently become the new Doctor Fate instead of Kent Nelson in the "Lords of Order" storyline. Nassour would also receive a new redesign as Doctor Fate.[42] Nelson's character would be later killed off in the "A Costly Trick of Magic" storyline, leaving Nassour as the sole Doctor Fate character. While the original 2018 series was cancelled in 2020, the Justice League Dark series was re-purposed as a backup issue to the mainstream Justice League title, the backup issue being written by author Ram V, featuring a new storyline, with Khalid remaining a reoccurring member of the Justice League Dark subdivision.[43] Khalid would also appear in several title crossovers such as Superman, Teen Titans Academy, and The Flash.
Beginning in 2021, Khalid Nassour would appear in major storylines such as the Justice League Dark: The Great Wickedness storyline, depicting a status quo change wherein the Helmet of Fate is damaged and is inhabited by a new entity.[44] Connected to the Future State crossover event depicting an older Khalid Nassour having lived through the aftermath of the events of the "Great Wickedness" storyline, the entity is revealed to be the Egyptian goddess, Hauhhet.[44] Nassour would also play a role in the Justice League/Justice League Dark crossover. In late 2022, the Nassour version concurrently appeared in the 2022 Justice Society of America comic and in several other notable crossovers such as Lazarus Planet and Dark Crisis on Infinite Earths. In the Justice Society of America comic title, the character's status quo from the previous Justice League Dark title carries over with the Khalid as a member of the Justice Society and playing a crucial role in defeating Degaton. The series would showcase different iterations of Doctor Fate as Degaton hunts the JSA across time[45] and later rectified the history of the character.[46]
In 2023, the Nelson version is referenced in the Knight Terrors storyline[47] and the Nassour version appears in the Wonder Woman tie-tin.[48][49] In late 2023 and 2024, Kent would make appearances in various titles such as Green Lantern: Alan Scott and Jay Garrick: The Flash, the comic books taking place decades prior to the character's death in Justice League Dark. Khalid would also featured in the Absolute Power crossover, depicted as one of the heroes depowered by the machinations of Amanda Waller with the help of Amazo robots replicating the powers of heroes and Brainiac Queen.
The original version is acknowledged as an agent of order under Nabu and is considered a highly regarded incarnation.[50][51][52] The character is notable marked by his complex and antagonistic relationship with Nabu, who often works to supplant his will and personal agency.[53] While an experienced and respected hero whom is often sought after for advice in his later years,[54] Nelson often becomes disillusioned with the role overtime and is supportive of a successor.[55] Nelson's often expresses an approach of Doctor Fate in which focuses on grand supernatural problems and believes problems in regards to humanity being mundane and doesn't warrant such attention but adheres to the role encompassing a high responsibility.[56][57]
Drawing inspiration from Marvel Comics's Doctor Strange and Spider-Man, Levitz's portrayal of the character depicts Nassour as a young adult burdened with significant responsibilities, embarking on a journey of self-discovery within a world reminiscent of Doctor Strange's mystical realm.[58] Nabu's support under Khalid differs from previous versions and was noted to be akin to a "combination of a GPS system and the movie version of Iron Man's J.A.R.V.I.S.", contrasting from past depictions as an overbearing presence and progenitor of his power.[59] This version is primarily supported by Egyptian deities, namely Bastet and Thoth, alongside several archangels and the aforementioned Nabu,[60] retaining the status of agent of order.[44] Eventually, this arrangement later changed to resembled Nelson's portrayal but replaces Nabu with Hauhet, a mysterious Egyptian goddess whose true agenda is unknown.[61]
The Inza Cramer version worked inadvertently as a "agent of chaos", acting as a representative for Lords of Chaos in which used their powers for benevolent reasons.[62] Unlike prior versions predating her, she often used her overwhelming power to simultaneously address both grander universal issues and more "local" issues such as social inequality and poverty, the latter in a district in New York City.[57] Jared Stevens, although sometimes acknowledged as an agent of order or agent of balance, primarily was portrayed as a demon hunter[29] while his successor, Hector Hall, is agent of balance whose duties included preventing the conflicts between the two factions from leading towards destruction[63] Kent V. Nelson differed from all other versions, lacking a connection to the Lords of Chaos and Order and instead operated as an independent sorcerer affiliated with the Justice Society of America.[29]
Legacy hero
Doctor Fate is commonly empowered as an "agent of order, acting as a representative of the Lords of Order.[13] Since the first Doctor Fate series in 1989, the character was retroactively established as a legacy hero, with new incarnations introduced throughout their publication history. Within the DC Universe, one source claims past incarnations predating the original version, existing once as champions of the Egyptian deities.[64] It is later revealed while Nelson was the first individual to bear the "Doctor Fate" name, past incarnations did not utilize the moniker.[46]
Reputation
Although specific accolades of each incarnation vary, the Doctor Fate character is considered among the most powerful superheroes in the DC Universe.[65] Throughout the publication history of the character, specific descriptors of the character's expressed is sometimes consistent with one another.
Kent Nelson's accolades
Nelson's portrayal often is accompanied by accolades due to the nature of Doctor Fate's power, with the DC Comics Encyclopedia noting him to be among the greatest living sorcerers of his time.[13] Several storylines and guides compare him to other incarnations and successors, wherein he is noted to be the most formidable version of the character.[66] The character was also specified to be "one of the ten most powerful beings on Earth".[67]
Eric and Linda Strauss's accolades
While combined they're considered among the most powerful mystical beings on Earth but do not rival Nelson's knowledge.[68] One roleplaying guide source claims they potentially surpass Nelson's incarnation in raw power.[69]
Inza Cramer's accolades
Her character profile in Who's Who mentioned her to be among the most formidable of "all-known sorcerers" in the and shares Nelson's distinction as "one of the ten most powerful beings on Earth".[67] She is also remarked in one instance to be more talented than Nelson.[57]
Hector Hall's accolades
Despite struggling to improve, the character is recognized as potentially the most formidable version of Doctor Fate.[63] He is often cited as one of Earth's most powerful sorcerers[70] and shared Nelson distinction of being "the greatest living sorcerer" due to Doctor Fate artifacts.[71] In his debut, Mordru observes that he 's more vast than past incarnations, especially Jared Stevens.[72] Nabu later notes that Hector defeated Mordru as a novice despite his great power.[73]
Kent V. Nelson's accolades
In early depictions, the character was noted for his lack of skills and cast basic spells and incantations,[37][74] causing him to utilize past incarnation's reputation to obfuscate his limitations.[74] The character's 2011 appearances later showcases the character having ascended enough to be recognized under the title "Sorcerer Supreme".[75]
Khalid Nassour accolades
In the character's earlier appearances and portrayals, he was expressed to be not as powerful as Doctor Fate in prior realities.[29] Within the character's portrayal in Justice League Dark onwards, his skilled increased after training under Kent Nelson.[76] The incarnation is subjected to some inconsistencies; some storylines after the team series highlight the character being peer to Zatanna as being among the most formidable magic practitioner on Earth,[77] having completed his training,[76] and being capable enough to mentor his own student.[78] Other stories, however, also has simultaneously emphasize his inexperience.[77][79]
Fictional history
20th Century
Origin and early adventures
The character's origin was first revealed in All-Star Comics #3 (1940), written by Garnder Fox, wherein Doctor Fate states to Johnny Thunder that he is not human nor had a childhood, created by elder gods and placed upon Earth to battle the forces of evil.[80] This is later contradicted,depicting Doctor Fate's alter ego as Kent Nelson, the son of archaeologist Sven Nelson whom encountered Nabu during an excavation and accidentally kills his father by releasing poisonous gases. Nabu explains he is immortal alien being from the planet Cilia and pities the boy, taking him in to teach him the "secrets of the universe" and raises him into adulthood to become Doctor Fate.[81] The1963 "Crisis on Earth-One" and "Crisis on Earth-Two" storylines respectively revealed Doctor Fate and the Justice Society of America's home reality to be of Earth-2 and meets with the Justice League of Earth-1, a superhero team of a parallel world. After years of retirement, Doctor Fate becomes semi-active and helps the teams.[82][29]
Several collection of stories later re-printed into the Immortal Doctor Fate series depicted Nelson earlier adventures as Doctor Fate, battling the likes of Wotan, Khalis, and Anubis while navigating through the negative effects brought upon by Nabu's influence upon his marriage with love interest Inza Cramer fifteen years after becoming Doctor Fate in the year 1940.[53] While each of these stories were released at different times in publication, they're considered definitive adventures of the Kent Nelson's history.[64] Nelson's background was also revised during this period; in 1975 Martin Pasko first retroactively reveals Nabu altered young Kent's mind to erase his grief and pain, establishing him as twelve years old during the incident and would slowly possess him as Doctor Fate when he was an adult.[83] Three years later in 1978, Paul Levitz's revisions alternatively depicting Nabu as a cosmic being of the Lords of Order and sought to use young Kent, whom he aged to adulthood and imparted into him his mystical knowledge in the process.[84]
Crisis on Infinite Earths and onward
The character later appears in the Marv Wolfman and George Pérez's Crisis on Infinite Earths crossover series, merging both Earth-1 and Earth-2 realities within the multiverse altering event, with all past definitive histories histories having been said to happen on this composite universe ("Earth").[29]
In the late-1980s, an older Kent Nelson appears as a key member of the Justice League International but is killed off in the1987 within J. M. DeMatteis's Doctor Fate miniseries, which introduced the origin of Eric and Linda Strauss's incarnation.[85][29][64] Eric Strauss is the young son of a billionaire whose history of abuse led to the suicide of his birth mother and disdain of his stepmother. With the boy's father dies and is placed and under her care, she is both attracted and amazed by Eric for reasons she cannot explain. Eric is chosen to wear the Helmet of Fate and merges with his stepmother to become the new Doctor Fate.[85][29] The second series revealed both Eric and Linda to be a pair often reincarnated alongside one another subjected to familial, platonic, and even adversarial dynamics in each lifetime.[86] In 1991,the pair are eventually killed off in different circumstances involving Darkseid (retroactively revealed to be a disguised DeSaad) and Anti-Fate respectively but reincarnate into new lives, ending their run.
Their tenure as Doctor Fate was revealed to have lasted for approximately a year within the series.[86]
In 1991 during the second half of the second Doctor Fate series, Inza and Kent are revived in younger bodies. Circumstances makes Inza Doctor Fate, allowing her a social life and shifts her heroism towards social class issues and inequality alongside fighting the supernatural. Inza appears in the War of the Gods crossover and title alongside Wonder Woman and other superheroes to help thwart Circe's efforts from destroying Earth.[87]
In 1994, Jared Steven's first origin story is depicted in early issues of the Fate series by John Francis Moore, where he is hired by elderly Kent and Inza Nelson to retrieve the lost artifacts of Doctor Fate. The pair are killed by demons when they try to collect the artifacts and Jared comes into contact with Nabu. Jared rejects his attempt to make him Doctor Fate under his control and circumstances causes him to alter the forms of the artifacts, the helmet now being a knife, the power of the Amulet of Anubis within him now, and the Cloak of Destiny now acting as bandages on his arm. He also instead utilizes the moniker of "Fate".[88] Later in1997 Keith Griffen later reboots his origins, whereas the elder Nelsons instead deceive Stevens into the role of Doctor Fate, allowing them to past into the afterlife peacefully and burdens him with the responsibilities.[89]
In 1999, an issue of DC's Secret Files and Origins establish various points in time: Nelson becoming Doctor Fate in 1940, the events of Eric and Linda Strauss's time as Doctor Fate took place four years prior to the book's timeline (1995) and Jared Steven was chosen as Fate one year prior to the book's timeline (1998).[90] The story within the book also is part of and leads into the "Justice Be Done" storyline by James Robinson and David S. Goyer Jared Stevens is killed off and replaced with Hector Hall, the son of Hawkman and Hawkgirl who is reincarnated as the new Doctor Fate.[72]
Hector Hall's Doctor Fate also appears in the Day of Judgement comic title and crossover, depicted as a member of the Sentinels of Magic. Another SF&O issue reinforces Nelson's first time as Doctor Fate in 1940, Eric/Linda's time being four years prior to the book's timeline (1995) Jared being chosen one year ago (1998). However, Inza's activities during War of the Gods is references to taken place two years prior (1997).[71]
21st Century
In the 2006 Day of Vengeance crossover, Hector is killed by the Spectre and Nabu briefly acts in place of Doctor Fate. He gathers gather mystics and later confronts the ghost, driven to insanity and commits towards a witch-hunt for all magic users, destroying the Lords of Chaos and Order in the process. Fatally injured, he succeeds in stopping the Spectre but dies. In his final moments, he asks Captain Marvel to throw the helmet into space in hopes it finds a worthy bearer.[91][29]
Throughout 2007–2008, the Kent V. Nelson version is introduced by Steve Gerber following Hall's death in Countdown to Mystery. His origin depicts him as a former psychiatrist whose life spirals out of control following an infidelity, depression, and loss of medical license. The grandnephew of the original Kent Nelson, whom he is named after, he continues the Doctor Fate line when he dons the helmet sometime prior to the Final Crisis crossover event and battles longtime Doctor Fate villain, Nergal. Due to Gerber's death, the conclusion of the series features several different endings from his notes written by several other writers.[92][64]
In The Brave and the Bold #3 (Feb. 2010), a past spiritual version of Kent Nelson appears to help Green Lantern Hal Jordan from his ring. He learns of his death but uses his power to save Hal instead of changing the future.[93]
New 52 onward
Following the New 52 reboot in 2012, the Kent V. Nelson version is erased from existence alongside much of the past incarnations of Doctor Fate.[29]
In 2015, the current version of Doctor Fate is imagined by Paul Levitz as twenty-two year old biracialEgyptian-American Khalid Nassour, whom is Muslim, a descendant of a line of Pharaohs, and a medical student. In his debut story, the "Blood Price", he inherits the mantle of Doctor Fate from ancient Egyptian deities and archangels alike to oppose Anubis.[94][60] Subsequent stories It is later revealed that he is connected to the Nelson bloodline through his mother, who is described to be Kent Nelson's favorite niece whom inspired her towards archaeology. An elderly Kent also returns into the role and mentor Khalid and although both are Doctor Fate concurrently,[95] Nelson takes precedent within the role, with Nabu also briefly usurping it to battle Arion and assist the latest Blue Beetle,[96] and appears in crossovers such as 2017's Dark Nights: Metal.[97]
During James Tynion IV's run in Justice League Dark from 2017 to 2019, Kent, Khalid, and Nabu are featured heavily in the run. The pair are trapped by Nabu, who uses Nelson's body and conspires with other Lords of Order to destroy the source of magic following the piercing of the Source Wall. Their plans are interrupted by Wonder Woman's newly created Justice League Dark and their allies, who first free Khalid from his imprisonment. Enlisting the power of chaos magic from Mordru, Kent is freed of Nabu's control and the team prevails in defeating the Lords of Order. Wonder Woman asks Nelson to don the helmet once more, who refuses due to his disillusionment and recommends Khalid, who then declines. The pair enlist themselves as advisory based members of Justice League Dark but when the team is pitted against Circe's Injustice League Dark, Khalid becomes the sole Doctor Fate and assists in their defeat.[98][55][54]
As the sole Doctor Fate, Nassour is a trusted member of Justice League Dark,[64] was instrumental in both restoring the Parliaments governing the elemental forces of the DC Universe and the eventual defeat of Upside-Down Man, where Kent sacrifices himself to deal a powerful blow but at the cost of the helm being depleted of power.[76]
Within several stories in 2021 onward (coinciding within the Infinite Frontier period), the character is revealed to have taken in non-binary animated effigy Stich as both child and apprentice in the mystic arts[99] and had managed to restore the power lost against Upside-Down Man with Kirk Langstom's help as the Justice League Dark battled an evil Merlin. A new spirit, the goddess Hauhet, is revealed to have replaced Nabu and grants Nassour the power to see into the future.[44] In the 2022 "Dark Crisis on Infinite Earths" crossover, Nassour joins the Justice Society and helps in efforts to defeat Pariah and the Great Darkness.[100][101]
In 2023 during the Dawn of DC period, Nassour is mentioned in both the prelude and main even of the Lazarus Planet crossover and appears in the spin-off. The former mentions he is bested by Nezha and the helm is stolen for his purposes and his disappearance was noticed by heroes. Dreamer discovers he is trapped in a dream-like state after being enlisted by Batman to help track him down.[102][103]
In his concurrent appearances in Geoff John's 2023 Justice Society of America series, chronologically taking place after Lazarus Planet, Nassour helps the team and future Helena Wayne fight against Per Degaton's attempt to erase them from existence with the help of JSA members across time while a past Nelson reconciles the various alterations in his lifetime from Degaton.[104] The title addresses timeline discrepancies, noting events like "Zero Hour" occurred eight years earlier and the 2015 Doctor Fate series is set one year prior.[45] However, Khalid's appearances in other titles, especially Justice League Dark,[79][54] suggest a tenure longer than four years, as he is depicted as a medical school graduate and being a first-year resident physician.[54]
In 2024, aspects of past incarnations' histories are restored by Geoff Johns and Nelson makes posthumous appearances during the 1940s which expands on his histories in the new reality that followed the New 52. One noted change includes him having a young arrogant sidekick Salem the Witch Girl until her disappearance from time erased his memories of her.[45] Nassour's involvement in present times saw her later return, where she is hostile due to his placement in the legacy of Doctor Fate. Nassour places Salem under the JSA's care until the pair can reconcile and is taken to the future to help the Legion of Substitute Heroes.[105][106] Nassour is also involved in the Knight Terrors and Absolute Power crossovers, among the heroes captured in the latter.[107][108]
Powers, abilities, and resources
Throughout the character's publication history, various incarnations of Doctor Fate often possess different powers and abilities compared to one another.[65][29]
Mystical artifacts
Most incarnations of Doctor Fate possess a collection of powerful magical artifacts[3] that can empower individuals of limited supernatural skill with substantial mystical power,[109] in which experienced incarnations possess a godlike level of magical power and knowledge[110] which makes them nearly unmatched in spell-casting[29][3] and capable of virtually any kind of mystical feat.[51] These artifacts also serve a dual purpose of both enhancing inherent magical powers and serving as protective measures.[111]
Helmet of Fate
The Helmet of Fate bestows its wearer with extraordinary god-like abilities and is widely regarded as one of the most potent artifacts in existence. Constructed from Nth metal, the helmet possesses inherent mystical properties and possesses the unique ability to counteract and negate magical forces.[97] Whether guided by the residing spirit within the helm or through the helm's own discernment, the artifact is typically accessible only to individuals deemed worthy by its judgment.[66] Throughout the publication history of Doctor Fate, the portrayal of the helm's source and methodology of power has undergone various changes, dependent on the incarnation of Doctor Fate. Despite its formidable nature, the Helmet of Fate is not impervious to damage. It has shown vulnerability to powerful entities like Arion and Brimstone, requiring subsequent regeneration. The helmet is susceptible to potent forms of Atlantean magic, power from higher beings such as the Spectre, and advanced applications of the Firestorm matrix. It can also experience overload, resulting in temporary limitations and the inertness of certain powers.[112][96][76]
During the character's initial depiction in the 1940s, his abilities were first described as being from "unknown science of the weird and occult" and having learned " the true conversation of energy into matter, and matter into energy". Doctor Fate was also described as being a "alchemist and physicist extraordinaire".[113]
Subsequent depictions instead established the character to possess a more outright supernatural connection and through Nabu, a Lord of Order. During his appearances in the 1970-80s, the character utilized magic and spell-casting derived from Egyptian deities[53] but Nelson's Who's Who character profile in 1985 expresses him derive power chiefly from the Helmet of Fate, described initially as granting him the power to perform "virtually" any mystical feat although.[51] Furthermore, his appearances in the second Doctor Fate series also explained he derived powers from the Lords of Order and could use his imagination to bring for supernatural effects, contrasting from other magic users who used spell-casting or familiars and described being Doctor Fate as being a "Earth-bound Lord of Order". Even when the character utilized powers derived from a connection to Shat-Ru, his abilities resembled those he had under Nabu's patronage.[114][67]
Eric and Linda Strauss's portrayal
According to the Who's Who, Eric and Linda Strauss's ability includes merging into an entity known as Doctor Fate and utilizes their mystic artifacts, in which manifests from within.[68] The 1989 Doctor Fate series also depicted the pair as being capable of independently manifesting acting as Doctor Fate, although their power is halved.[115]
Inza Cramer's portrayal
Within the character's appearances in the 1989 Doctor Fate series, Inza features a departure from her incarnation, as she is instead originally powered by chaos magic from the Lords of Chaos.[57] The official description of her abilities features similarities to the prior version, able to merge with Kent into a singular being known as Doctor Fate. The character can also manifests as Doctor Fate by will and is mentioned to be capable of performing virtually any mystical by visualization and willing it rather than casting spells.[67]
During Hector Hall's appearances as Doctor Fate, his powers are described as commanding a "vast array of magical spells and eldritch formulae" as well as often hearing Nabu's suggestion of spells in the form of a whisper from the Helmet of Fate.[63] Under Nabu's patronage, Hector is noted to retain control of his personal agency while wearing the Helmet.[71]
Kent V. Nelson's portrayal
In the younger Nelson's portrayal by Steve Gerber, he revamped the character to possess a more concrete consistent source of power and limitations; unlike all prior versions, Nelson possess no powers derived from the Lords of Chaos and Order, instead the helmet granting him powers of sorcery which he must learn. Gerber also intended for the helm to no longer confer instantaneous mystical knowledge and connections to other mythologies, instead having a consistent set of spells and charms derived from "original" sources similar to that of Doctor Strange from Marvel Comics.[116][35] In later portrayals, the Helmet under Nelson is revealed to house a library of spells in which he can choose to utilize.[74]
In both his debut storyline and official entry in his character profile, Nassour's abilities originate from the helm's connection to the certain Egyptian deities, granting him to tap and manipulate the elements (air, earth, wind, fire, and lightning), intangibility, flight and healing.[64][60] In the former, it is expressed these powers primarily originate from Thoth's power within the helmet specifically and also allows him to utilize magic powered by the natural forces themselves and enhances his awareness and intellect.[60] Among other expressed abilities also includes and casting mystical bolts of energy.[29] When Hauhet later inhabits the helm as the primary spirit in place of former Nabu, Nassour is able to see into the future.[117]
Amulet of Anubis
The Amulet of Anubis is a significant magical artifact associated with the Doctor Fate legacy. Its origins have been depicted in various narratives. One account states that it was created by Anubis and initially possessed by Khalis before being claimed by Nabu.[53] Another origin story suggests that the amulet was crafted from the remnants of Cilia, connecting it to the Lords of Order.[118] In the New 52 continuity, Thoth is presumed to be the creator.[60] Regardless, the amulet bestows various powers, which includes resistance to psychic and astral probing, mind control, and magical power enhancement,[53]necromancy[119] and contains its own separate universe apt for trapping entities.[90][118]
Cloak of Destiny
The Cloak of Destiny is a cape which possess magical qualities that grants the user several powers such as invulnerability, superhuman strength, and flight.[120] It is also fireproof and counters the magical abilities originating form the Lords of Chaos.[121][122]
Other artifacts and resources
Others include the Orb of Nabu, serving as a scrying glass and allows him Fate search for hidden threats by reacting to his brainwaves. Although not explicitly magical, it provides valuable insights for the bearers[123] In addition to possessing powerful mystical artifacts, Doctor Fate has access to various resources, including the Tower of Fate. This fictional structure serves as Doctor Fate's primary dwelling and is considered a nexus point of magic and reality on Earth. The tower is only accessible through magic and lacks doors or windows.[64] Inside, it appears as a twisted maze of stairways and hallways where the laws of physics do not apply. The Tower of Fate houses a vast personal library containing arcane texts, including materials salvaged from the Great Library of Alexandria. It is fortified with mystical defenses.[124] Doctor Fate also possesses the Book of Fate, a tome that contains a comprehensive history and knowledge of the Lords of Chaos and Order, predominantly from the perspective of the latter.[77]
Jared Steven's abilities
Jared also repurposes various notable artifacts and the mantle itself into the role of a demon hunter.[29] The Mystic Dagger of Nabu, a repurposed Helmet of Fate in the form of a knife, possessed limitless magical power. Fate's usage of the weapon lacked the magical spells and powers of Doctor Fate, insteadT serving as an impervious weapon capable of hurting supernatural beings[125] and can telepathically control its movements and trajectory when thrown.[126]
Weaknesses
Doctor Fate's weaknesses vary depending on the incarnation. One common weakness is their dependency on the mystical helmet, as removing it limits or eliminates their abilities.[127] Some versions are unable to cast counter spells against existing ones due to established "rules of magic" within the DC Universe.[29] Divine powers also disrupt their powers, including healing abilities.[60] Older aged versions can diminish their potency, power, and effectiveness as Doctor Fate[128] while inexperience hampers younger iterations' mastery of their magical abilities.[127][60] The character is also explicitly stated as being inferior to the Spectre in power.[51]
Khalid Ben-Hassin as Doctor Fate. Art by Nicola Scott, Trevor Scott (left) Brett Booth, and Norm Rapmund (right)
In 2013, several years after DC Comics rebooted the DC Universe through the New 52, a new alternate version of Doctor Fate would be created for the Earth 2 series; the incarnation of the character known as Khalid Ben-Hassin, who is of Egyptian descent raised in the United States. The character's descent was intentional by James Robinson, wanting an Egyptian character to hold the mantle Doctor Fate while still allowing to be western but not making him a caricature.[131] A stark difference from the mainstream Doctor Fate includes the Helmet of Fate within the respective universe revealed to be a form of a Mother Box grafted with magical energies and the personality of Nabu.[132]
In the Earth 2 series and respective universe, Ben-Hassin is an Egyptian-American archaeologist who is the world's foremost expert on occult and magic, having previously approached the subject from an archeological standpoint rather than believing myths to be true until Nabu (cast as an Egyptian wizard from long ago) chooses him as his vessel of chaos and order. While initially rejecting it, Ben-Hassin dons it to prevent supervillain Karel Wotan from claiming it while inspired to heroism by Earth 2's Flash, a younger version of Jay Garrick.[133] Eventually, after the invasion of Darkseid's forces and the creation of a new Earth for the survivors, Ben-Hassin destroys the Helmet of Fate saved a few shards, which he then kept in a necklace, granting him the abilities of having premonitions and visions of the future. He also becomes an ambassador on the newly created Earth for the Wonders of the World.
Other alternate realities versions
Doc Fate: An alternate version of Doctor Fate is shown to exist on the pulp fiction-influenced world of Earth-20.[134][135] Doc Fate is an African-American gunslinger and occultist named Kent Nelson who is based in a windowless Manhattan skyscraper. Doc Fate forms and leads a team of adventurers known as the Society of Super-Heroes, which includes the Immortal Man, the Mighty Atom, the Blackhawks and the Green LanternAbin Sur.[136]
Brother Fate: On Earth al Ghul, a universe in the Dark Multiverse which Earth is ruled by Bruce Wayne, who is both that world's Ra's al Ghul and rules the Empire of Shadows (formerly the League of Assassins), Brother Fate is among the heroes in the universe opposing the Empire of Shadow. He killed during a conflict known as the Battle of Blackgate, which one of Bruce's sons produces the Helmet of Fate in a warped, damaged state to Bruce to confirm his death.[137]
Flashpoint Doctor Fate: In the Flashpoint series, Dick Grayson eventually succeeds Kent Nelson (who is a member of Haly's Circus as fortune teller "Dr. Fate" and formerly a member of Flashpoint's Justice Society of America) shortly after his death at the hands of the Amazons, who members (including an evil version of Starfire) hunts them down to use the Helm of Fate against the Atlanteans. This version is also assisted by Deadman and although Dick named himself "Doctor Fate", the character hasn't been depicted as bearing the helm within the story.[138]
Doctor Strangefate: Doctor Strangefate is a sorcerer from the Amalgam Comics universe; he is an amalgamation of Doctor Fate and Marvel Comics' Doctor Strange, with the alter ego of Marvel Comics' Charles Xavier. Dr. Strangefate makes his first appearance in Marvel Versus DC #1 (1996). In the Amalgam Universe (designated as Earth-9602), Dr. Strangefate/Charles Xavier, a powerful mutant telepath who later learned the mystic arts through Nabu the Ancient One, who was also the Lord Supreme of Order in the universe. Xavier would later take the Helmet of Strangefate, becoming an unconventional hero, helping establish the Judgement League Avengers. He is also served by his servant, Myx, and employs agents who he has previously helped in the past, who are now indebted to him: Shulk (amalgamation of Hulk and Solmon Grundy), Jade Nova (amalgamation of Jade and Nova), and the White Witch (an amalgamation of Zatanna and Scarlet Witch), who has a crush on Dr. Strangefate. While being among the most powerful beings in his universe, Strangefate instead prefers to have others act in his stead and only personally acts in more dire situations.[139]
Alternate futures
Doctor Fate of the 31st Century
Doctor Fates of the 31st Century. Art by Steve Lieber, Jerry Ordway (right), Stephen Bryne, Wade von Grawbadger (left).
This version refers to the future iterations of the character, existing in the 31st Century following Doctor Manhattan's machinations in the "Doomsday Clock" event. Thus far, two characters have been introduced as "Doctor Fate" within the 31st Century. The first version of the character debuted in Supergirl #33 (2019), created by Marc Andreyako and Kevin Maguire. Depicted as a six armed alien, the unnamed male is a respected member of the Legion Super-Heroes and a revered agent of Order known to the United Planets. This Doctor Fate warns the team and the government group of the arrival of the Great Darkness and assists Jon Kent and the Legion of Super-Heroes in defeating a futuristic version of Mordru.[140] This Doctor Fate is later among the targets of an enhanced Per Degaton, who kills him alongside other Doctor Fates as part of a ritual to erase the Justice Society's history and replace it with his own.[61]
A second version of the character appears in The New Golden Age #1, created by Geoff Johns, Steve Lieber, and Jerry Ordway. This futuristic version of Doctor Fate, known by the name Sofie, is the incarnation who is among the founding members of the Justice Society in the 31st Century alongside the future versions of Atom Smasher and Green Lantern (modelled after the Alan Scott). This version is temporarily killed by an enhanced Per Degaton alongside her teammates.[61] She is later revived by Khalid Nassour, who pulls her from a point in time just before Degaton kills her and helps him seal Degaton away, as being a temporal paradox makes him impossible to kill. Degaton's comments towards her reveal that she will eventually be succeeded by her granddaughter as Doctor Fate.[61]
Other future versions
An alternate future version of John Constantine was once attempted by Nabu to become a bearer by force and his body was briefly usurped. Constantine would invoke a gambit to call upon "Anubis" with "spell" to judge him for his actions, unaware an Ifrit was posing as Anbuis, and is ultimately killed.[141]
Counterparts
In the second Justice League Dark comic book series written by James Tynion IV, several Lords of Order are introduced whom possess similar abilities to Nabu, inhabiting artifacts of great magical power and can usurp and coerce hosts to act on the physical plane as their agents. For a time, these Lords of Order forcibly adopted hosts to serve their agenda in wiping out magic from reality in order to starve the Otherkind, whom feed on magic and believed magic to be a root of many of the universe's problems.[55]
Sister Symmetry (Cyra): A Lord of Order using the Cloak of Cyra, her former host was Madame Xanadu.[55]
Count Control (Dalphi): This Lord of Order inhabits the Boots of Dalphi, his host was formerly Extraño.[55]
Brother Pattern (Hoku): Inhabiting the Breastplate of Hoku, he usurps the second Ibis the Invincible for a time.[55]
Lord Structure (Myrath): Using the Gauntlets of Myrath, his former host was Prince Ra-Man.[55]
Some villainous examples include:
Doctor Chaos: A supervillain appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by Martin Pasko and Kurt Schaffenberger, the character debuted in The New Adventures of Superboy #25 (1982). Both the mainstream universe and Earth-3, home of the universe containing the alternate Justice League counterpart, Crime Syndicate, features versions of Doctor Chaos.
Within the mainstream comic book's continuity. The first version of Doctor Chaos is Burt Belker, a wealthy, college student studying archaeology and one of Lewis Lang's assistants who briefly dated Lana Lang. During one of their expeditions, Lewis and Burt discover a Sumerian helm (revealed later to be the Helmet of Chaos) and makes their discovery known in Smallville. When he donned the helm, he is taken over by the entity residing in it and comes into conflict with Superboy. Briefly, the chaotic entity also empowers Lana Lang with intentions of making her his consort. Eventually, Superboy defeats Doctor Chaos by exploiting his weakness to copper.[142] A revised version of Doctor Chaos later appears briefly in the 2019 Justice League of America comic series; This version acts as a guardian of the Chaos Realm, the base of operations from which the Lords of Chaos convene in. Doctor Chaos is swiftly killed shortly after villainess Queen of Fables escapes from her imprisonment and the sorcerer attempts to bar her from returning to the mortal plane. The identity of the person behind Doctor Chaos remains unknown.[143]
In the comic book version of Injustice: Gods Among Us, a character named Doctor Chaos appears in different incarnations. The Injustice version of Doctor chaos features the Helmet of Apophis and Amulet of Apophis serving as counterparts to the Helmet of Fate and Amulet of Anubis. Hawkgirl briefly becomes Doctor Chaos after discovering the artifacts and falling under their influence. She kills Nazi opponents but spares Dirk Strasser, who later takes possession of the amulet. Dirk uses it to mind control others, including Johnny Thunder and Thunderbolt. Hawkgirl kills Dirk in retaliation for Johnny's death. Alan Scott hides the amulet, claiming it was destroyed, but someone knows of its existence. Joker eventually obtains the amulet and the helmet, becoming Doctor Chaos. He targets members of the Justice Society due to their connection to the present-day Justice League. However, he is defeated by the Justice League, and Superman destroys the amulet.
Anti-Fate: A supervillain from DC Comics, created by J.M. DeMatteis and Keith Griffen, debuting in Doctor Fate #1 (1987). His alter ego, Benjamin Stoner, is the lead doctor at Arkham Asylum, driven mad and possessed by the Lord of Chaos, Typhon. Typhon battles Doctor Fate, exploiting Kent Nelson's aging vulnerability. After passing the mantle to Eric Strauss, Typhon defeats the new Doctor Fate, usurping the helmet and traumatizes Eric. The Phantom Stranger tries to help Stoner regain control but is overpowered by Typhon. Eventually, Eric and Linda Strauss reclaim the artifacts, becoming the new successors.[85] Anti-Fate is later manipulated by both the Lords of Chaos and Order in a plot to destroy Doctor Fate. Although he prevails, he learns of their true intentions and, freed from their influence, is left to reclaim his identity.
Doctor Hate: A super-villain who debuted in Knight Terrors: Night's End #1 (August, 2023), created by Joshua Williamson and Howard Porter. The character is depicted as the direct counterpart to Doctor Fate and serves as an agent for the Lords of Chaos. However, their powers stem from a distinct source, namely the Helmet of Hate. This helmet was formed from a corrupted shard of the Helmet of Fate during the company-wide crossover event, Lazarus Planet, and further augmented by the Nightmare Stone, introduced in the subsequent crossover storyline Knight Terrors as the opposite of the Dreamstone. As a result, the character possesses comparable formidable magical abilities and the ability to manipulate the minds of others. The character is revealed to be the demonic half of the hero Raven, whom escaped and became an independent being.[144]
Cultural impact and legacy
Reception
As a character, Doctor Fate has established himself as one of DC Comics' enduring figures, although not reaching the same level of cultural recognition as iconic characters like Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman or The Flash. According to Wizard Magazine, Doctor Fate's notable strengths lie in his name, distinctive design, and the recurring motif of the Helmet of Fate. While the character has experienced various cancellations over time, they have also been the focus of multiple miniseries and ongoing series.[8]
Several versions of the character have critical acclaim; the Hector Hall version was considered a fan-favorite during the 1999 JSA run[32] and the Khalid Nassour incarnation was well-received among critics and was compared to Marvel Comics'Kamala Khan as representing an underrepresented demographic while also praising his design and incorporations of Egyptian elements compared to Greek/Roman.[10]
Criticisms
Portrayal of Doctor Fate's abilities
Steve Gerber was critical of the portrayal of Doctor Fate's abilities in the character's history prior to 2007, pointing out the character's inconsistent power level, which posed challenges for writers in defining the character effectively. Moreover, Gerber expressed reservations about the recurring element of the Nabu entity controlling Doctor Fate, as he believed it hindered the character's ability to form meaningful connections. Additionally, Gerber advocated for an original interpretation of magic, akin to the approach taken with Marvel's Doctor Strange, rather than Doctor Fate's association with Egyptian mythology and believed the character's history to be among the most convoluted. He sought to address this with the Kent V. Nelson incarnation of the character.[116][35] James Robinson also opined how despite the reoccurring theme of a "cost" to magic, Doctor Fate's magical powers "feels and certainly looks no different than a blast of energy from Green Lantern's ring. It's just energy that gets fired."[145]
Doctor Fate's Egyptian connection
Robinson's creation of the alternate version, Egyptian-born Khalid Ben-Hassin, was under the belief it was more appropriate to cast the character of Egyptian heritage but also wanted to avoid portraying the character as a caricature and offensive.[145] A similar sentiment was shared by Paul Levitz when creating the Khalid Nassour version, believing it to make more sense in tying with the character while expressing the past version of the character's tie to be a product of its time when writers could not write in detail about ethnicity and religion.[58]
Fate redesign
Jared Stevens version is considered an unpopular reinvention of the character and was critically panned due to his departure from the common, associate elements of the character and the redesign.[7]
Critical response
ScreenRant included Doctor Fate in their "The 10 Most Powerful Wizards".[146]
Doctor Fate was included in CBR's "Top 50 DC Characters".[147]
Ashley Land of CBR included Doctor Fate in their "Greatest Supernatural DC Heroes".[148]
In 1998, Wizard Magazine published an article in which included Doctor Fate in their "All-Wizard Team", which consisted of a list of the most powerful, versatile heroes in a respective field.[149]
Several incarnations of Doctor Fate appear in Young Justice.
Nabu (voiced by Kevin Michael Richardson)[154] was originally a son of Vandal Savage who was regarded in Mesopotamian mythology as Marduk and a god of wisdom before he was killed due to Savage's alliance with Lords of Chaos member Klarion the Witch Boy and spiritually ascended as a Lord of Order. Following this, Nabu must anchor himself to Earth via a physical host, whom he completely overwrites as a requirement for those whom bear his helm, and has taken many hosts over the succeeding millennia.
Kent Nelson (voiced by Edward Asner) is a retired member of the Justice Society of America and mentor to Giovanni Zatara who ceased being Nabu's host due to its effects on Nelson's marriage. Despite being killed by Klarion, Nelson temporarily confines his spirit to the Helmet of Fate and grants it to members of the Team so they can use it for emergencies.
While in possession of the Helmet of Fate, Team members Aqualad and Kid Flash temporarily take up the mantle of Doctor Fate before Nelson's spirit convinces Nabu to release them. After Zatanna dons the helmet to fight Klarion however, Nabu refuses to relinquish her until Zatara convinces Nabu to take him instead.
An original incarnation of Doctor Fate named Steel Maxum appears in Suicide Squad: Hell to Pay, voiced by Greg Grunberg. He was chosen by Nabu for his fitness until Scandal Savage and Knockout stole a "Get Out of Hell Free" card from him. In response, Nabu ousted Maxum from the Tower of Fate for his recklessness and irresponsibility and replaced him with "some chick" according to Maxum. In the present, Maxum joins a male strip club as the "Pharaoh" before he is simultaneously confronted by the Suicide Squad and Professor Zoom and his henchmen, Silver Banshee and Blockbuster. While Silver Banshee knocks him unconscious, the squad retrieves and escapes with Maxum. After regaining consciousness, he explains how the card works before the squad leave him on the streets, where Zoom's henchmen catch him.
The Kent Nelson incarnation of Doctor Fate appears as a playable character in Injustice 2, voiced by David Sobolov.[158]
The Kent Nelson incarnation of Doctor Fate appears as a playable character in Lego DC Super-Villains.
Notes
Related Research Articles
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Wotan is a fictional supervillain featured in American comic books published by DC Comics. The character, created by Gardner Fox and Howard Sherman, made their first appearance in More Fun Comics #55 in 1940. Wotan is frequently portrayed as the primary antagonist of Doctor Fate. Originally a female who obtained her powers through sorcery, Wotan later underwent reincarnation in a male form. Adopting the name "Wotan" from Germanic and Norse legends, the character developed a strong desire for power, leading to conflicts with Doctor Fate. Following the New 52 reboot, a new version of the character named Karel Wotan was introduced in the Earth 2 universe. Karel shares a similar background and possesses green skin as a result of a scar inflicted by Nabu. Seeking vengeance for this injury, Karel assumes the identity of Wotan. The original incarnation of Wotan briefly reappeared in the DC Rebirth storyline.
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Doctor Fate is a superhero appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics.
References
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↑ Goyer, David S. (2002). JLA, JSA: virtue and vice. Geoff Johns, Jesús Merino, Carlos Pacheco. New York. ISBN1-56389-937-X. OCLC51448984.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link)
↑ Giffen, Keith (1997). Book of Fate #4. DC Comics.
1 2 Willingham, Bill (2010). Justice Society of America: axis of evil. Travis Moore, Jesús. Merino, Dan Green, Jesse Delperdang. New York: DC Comics. ISBN978-1-4012-2901-6. OCLC567099447.
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