WM509

2018

DC

Renzo Ibay design

Animal Man, also known as Buddy Baker, is a DC Comics superhero who debuted in 1965. Initially a relatively straightforward hero, he underwent a significant reinvention in the late 1980s under writer Grant Morrison, becoming a complex and metafictional character.

Buddy gained his powers after encountering a crashed alien spaceship and being exposed to its energy. This gave him the ability to temporarily mimic the abilities of any animal within his vicinity. He can fly like a bird, gain the strength of an elephant, or breathe underwater like a fish.

Morrison's run explored themes of animal rights, environmentalism, and the nature of reality. Buddy became aware of his fictional existence and interacted with the writer, blurring the lines between comic book and reality. This groundbreaking narrative pushed the boundaries of superhero storytelling.

Later interpretations of Animal Man have often drawn upon Morrison's work, further exploring his connection to the "Red," the life-force connecting all animals. He is often depicted as a devoted husband and father, balancing his superhero life with family responsibilities, making him a relatable and humanistic character despite his extraordinary abilities.