2017

Marvel

Citizen V is a mantle adopted by multiple characters in the Marvel Universe, most notably Helmut Zemo. Originally, the role was filled by John Watkins during World War II, a British resistance fighter against the Nazis. Watkins seemingly died in battle, but the Citizen V legacy was revived decades later.

Helmut Zemo, the Baron Zemo, orchestrated a complex plan following the apparent death of the Avengers. To gain the public's trust and infiltrate the superhero community, he adopted the persona of Citizen V, leading a team called the Thunderbolts. This team was initially presented as heroes, but Zemo's true intention was to manipulate and control them for his own nefarious purposes.

Other individuals have briefly assumed the Citizen V identity, including Sharon Ventura (She-Thing) and Dallas Riordan, further complicating the character's history. The name and costume, however, are most closely associated with John Watkins' heroic past and Zemo's villainous manipulation, representing themes of deception and the blurring of lines between hero and villain.