Before Shazam! Fury of the Gods opens in theaters here are a few lesser-known facts about Shazam!
Shazam, also known as Captain Marvel, is one of DC Comics’ most iconic superheroes, yet there are still many lesser-known facts about this beloved character. From his humble origins to his enduring legacy, Shazam has captured the imaginations of generations of fans. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most fascinating and surprising facts about the World’s Mightiest Mortal.
Shazam was created by C.C. Beck and Bill Parker in 1939, two years before the debut of Superman. At the time, the character was known as Captain Marvel and was published by Fawcett Comics. It wasn’t until decades later that DC Comics acquired the rights to the character and began publishing him under the name Shazam.
Shazam’s alter-ego, Billy Batson, was originally modeled after the character of Fred Harmon Jr. from the “Freddie the Freeloader” radio program. This was due to the fact that Bill Parker was a fan of the show and wanted to pay homage to it in the creation of the character.
Shazam’s powers are derived from six ancient gods: Solomon, Hercules, Atlas, Zeus, Achilles, and Mercury. Together, their initials form the word “SHAZAM.” Each god contributes a specific attribute to Shazam’s powers, such as Solomon’s wisdom, Hercules’ strength, and Mercury’s speed.
Shazam has an interesting connection to the Justice League. Despite being a relatively new member, he has fought alongside some of DC Comics’ most iconic superheroes, including Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman. In fact, he has even been a member of the Justice League in various incarnations of the team.
Shazam has been portrayed in live-action by several actors over the years, including Jackson Bostwick in the 1970s TV show “Shazam!”, John Davey in the 1980s TV show “The Kid Super Power Hour with Shazam!”, and most recently by Zachary Levi in the 2019 movie “Shazam!”.
In conclusion, Shazam is a fascinating and enduring character with a rich history and legacy. These lesser-known facts offer a glimpse into the character’s origins, powers, and impact on popular culture. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the world of Shazam, these facts are sure to deepen your appreciation for this iconic superhero.