The ShadowHawk is one of the most popular comics of the 1990’s. It was a hit with comic readers and critics alike. With its unique combination of sci-fi and horror, it has become an award-winning series. However, despite its popularity, the story has been a bit overshadowed by its high-octane action and its characters. Here are a few things you may not know about this famous comic series.
Character
ShadowHawk is an Image Comics antihero. He first appeared in Rob Liefeld’s Youngblood series in 1987. Later he would become a member of the superhero team Brigade. But before that, he was a character that failed to catch on with comic book readers.
The ShadowHawk was created by Jim Valentino. At the time, it was intended to be a revamp of Marvel’s Starhawk. However, it failed to match the popular Image titles. In the end, he was put on hiatus.
Paul Johnstone, the original ShadowHawk, was born in Harlem, New York. His father died and his mother married Richard Woodroe. While his father worked as a lawyer, his half-brother struggled with drug addiction and HIV. As a result, he was discriminated against.
Exoskeleton
Exoskeletons are wearable devices that help increase strength and endurance. They are also used to increase mobility. They can be powered, suspended, or passive. Some are made of rigid materials, while others are designed to fit specific body segments. The most advanced exoskeletons can cover the entire body, giving a person improved physical capabilities.
Image Comics’ ShadowHawk is an infamous antihero. His alter ego is Paul Johnstone. He is an African-American lawyer who is HIV positive. When he is released from jail, he is forced to fight crime and protect the weak. He is also a fan of anime, super heroes, and everything in between.
Although Paul Johnstone’s career as ShadowHawk is short-lived, he finds himself on the wrong side of the law. His job was terminated because of his HIV status. However, he decides to use the remaining time to punish criminals.
Helmet of Heru
The Helmet of Heru in the ShadowHawk is an exoskeleton which encases the body and enhances the wearer’s speed, strength, and agility. It can be reshaped to provide a variety of weapons. These include retractable claws, shuriken, and boomerangs.
Aside from enhancing the wearer’s capabilities, the Helmet of Heru in the ShadowHawk also serves as a protective shield. It is made of a hypoallergenic material that is padded with natural silver salts. This inhibits the growth of bacteria and fungi. Additionally, it stops the growth of odor-causing organisms.
In the ShadowHawk comic book series, the helmet was initially worn by Paul Johnstone. However, after he died, it was given to Eddie Collins. He became the new ShadowHawk, and his suit morphed to improve his agility.
First superhuman opponent
The ShadowHawk comic book series is a modern take on a 1960’s “Hippie Hero”. In this iteration, the villain is no longer a nitpicky police detective. A new superhuman called the Blacklight has popped up. His mission is to find his wife, Dayglo. Luckily, he isn’t alone in his quest.
The aforementioned super-powered assassins were resurrected by a government initiative known as Project: Born Again. While they were at it, they also found time to invent a lightning bolt gun. Besides, the super-powered helmet a la Hawk and his Bird Shadow is the source of the aforementioned gizmo. However, they don’t have the time to use it as they are chasing the evil Nocturn.
Probably the most interesting part of this storyline is the rebirth of the Blacklight and his assistant, ZAP! ZAP has been in hiding since the late ’80s, and the fact that he has his own helmet makes him even more formidable. He also happens to be the best lightning bolt shooter in the world.
30th anniversary special
If you are a fan of the comic series Shadowhawk, you will be happy to know that the avian hero will be returning to comics in a new one-shot special that will be published by Image Comics in August. This new story will be celebrating the 30th anniversary of the popular character.
As for the story, it will be set in a dark future. It features a mysterious figure who will protect the streets as the new Shadowhawk. The character will need to battle against corruption and rise above it.
The one-shot is written by Phillip Tan and Brian Haberlin and will be inked by Daniel Henriques, the inker of Gunslinger Spawn. Fans will be able to read the special on many digital platforms such as Google Play and the Amazon Kindle.
