10 Most Notable Black Superheroes in Comics, Film and TV

blerds black panther

Black Panther

Black Panther was created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby in 1966 for Marvel Comics, which makes him the first Black super hero. He first appeared in Fantastic Four Vol. 1 #52. Black Panther’s real name is T’Challa and he is king to the unconquerable African kingdom of Wakanda.

The hereditary title Black Panther has been passed down from kings throughout history.  Black Panther is a brilliant tactician, scientist, tracker and a master of all forms of unarmed combat. At onetime he was married to Storm. He is also considered to be the wealthiest superhero ever.

John Stewart

John Stewart was created by Dennis O’Neil and Neal Adams in 1972 for DC Comics. He first appeared in Green Lantern vol. 2, #87. As a Green Lantern, he wields a power ring that gives him flight and the ability to travel in space and create energy constructs.

Stewart was an architect, social activist, and U.S. Marine sniper before becoming a Green Lantern.

He gained popularity as a member of Cartoon Network’s Justice League (2000-2006).   John Stewart is voiced by actor Phil LaMarr.

Blade

Blade was created by writers Marv Wolfman and Gene Colan in July 1973. Blade first appeared in the comic book The Tomb of Dracula #10. Blade is a human-vampire hybrid with all the powers of a vampire but none of the weaknesses.

He must drink blood, but he can walk in daylight. He also has a healing factor and is a skilled martial artist, swordsman and marksman. Blade was most famously portrayed by actor Wesley Snipes in the film series produced by New Line Cinema from 1998 to 2004.

Black Lightning

Black Lightning was created by Tony Isabella and Trevor Von Eeden in 1977 for DC Comics. He first appeared in Black Lightning #1. Jefferson Michael Pierce aka Black Lightning is a high school teacher and Olympic decathlete.

He has been a member of both The Justice League and The Outsiders. As his name indicates, he has the power to control electricity.

Ultimate Nick Fury  

Ultimate Nick Fury was created by Brian Michael Bendis and Mike Allred in August 2001. He first appeared in Ultimate Marvel Team-Up #5. He has no superhuman powers, but he is a master spy, a great strategic mind and director of S.H.I.E.L.D.

He is portrayed by actor Samuel L. Jackson in the Marvel cinematic universe.