| Spawn | |
|---|---|
&sq=Qlik&lang=&file=File:Spawn_Classic.jpg) Spawn on the cover of Spawn #1. Art by Todd McFarlane. | |
| Publication information | |
| Publisher | Image Comics |
| First appearance | Spawn #1 (May 1992) |
| Created by | Todd McFarlane |
| In-story information | |
| Alter ego | Albert Francis "Al" Simmons |
| Species | Hellspawn Human (formerly) |
| Team affiliations | |
| Notable aliases | Spawn, The One, Hellspawn, Spawny, King Spawn |
| Abilities |
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Albert Francis "Al" Simmons, better known as Spawn, is a fictional antihero appearing in a monthly comic book of the same name published by American company Image Comics, as well as in a number of films, television series, and video game adaptations set in the Image Universe. Created by Todd McFarlane, Spawn first appeared in Spawn #1 (May 1992).
Simmons is a mercenary who died and went to Hell for his crimes against humanity. Following a deal with Malebolgia, Simmons is given new life as a hellspawn and the chance to see his wife Wanda once again. The deal is revealed to be a trick, as Simmons is brought back to life five years after his death, unrecognizable to his wife and missing many of his memories. With little other choice, Simmons adopts his new hell inspired identity as Spawn in an effort to atone for his past sins and use his newfound powers for good.
The series has spun off several other comic books, including Angela, Curse of the Spawn, Sam & Twitch, and the Japanese manga Shadows of Spawn. Spawn was adapted into a 1997 feature film and portrayed by Michael Jai White, an HBO animated series lasting from 1997 until 1999, a series of action figures from McFarlane Toys, and an upcoming reboot film starring Jamie Foxx and Jeremy Renner.[1] The character appears in annual compilations, mini-series specials written by guest authors and artists, and numerous crossover storylines in other comic books, including Savage Dragon, Invincible, and three DC Comics crossovers with Batman.
- ^ Nama, Adilifu (October 1, 2011). Super Black: American Pop Culture and Black Superheroes. University of Texas Press. p. 136. ISBN 978-0-292-74252-9.