"The Spectre & Deadman"- 2 Very 'Spirited' Superheroes (1940's-1970's)

The Spectre / Jim Corrigan made his first full appearance in "More Fun Comics"#52 (Feb. 1940), although he was featured in an ad, the month before (announcing his arrival). He was created by Jerry Siegal and Bernard Baily.

Tough cop Jim Corrigan was murdered by criminals, and sunk to the bottom of the river in a cement-filled barrel. He was denied entrance into the after-life by "The Voice", and sent back to eradicate evil. Returning as Jim Corrigan, he developed a hooded green and white costume and became "The Spectre". He would usually destroy evil-doers in a supernatural fashion. He later joined the "Justice Society of America" in "All Star Comics" for many adventures.

The Spectre was not seen much for many years, until he was revived in "Showcase"#60 (Feb. 1966). He was given nearly omnipotent powers at that time. He made appearances in the annual Justice League / Justice Society team-ups, as well as "The Brave and the Bold" (with The Flash). The Spectre gained his own title in 1967, with artwork by Neal Adams and others. During this period, he became more of a regular superhero type, with less of a vengeful edge. This era ended in "Justice League of America"#83, with The Spectre supposedly destroyed.

The Spectre came back with a violent vengeance  in "Adventure Comics"#431-440, destroying evil in unique and grisly methods. He was illustrated by the amazing Jim Aparo, in his own special fashion.


Deadman / Boston Brand first appeared in "Strange Adventures"#205 (Oct. 1967). He was created by Arnold Drake and Carmine Infantino. Neal Adams took over artistic duties, starting with the next issue.

Boston Brand,a trapeze aerialist (who performed his act in a weird red costume; calling himself "Deadman"), was shot dead during his performance, by a man with a hook hand. He was brought back as an unseen spirit to find and wreak vengeance on his killer; by the 'goddess' Rama Kushna. Deadman was given the power to enter anyone at will and take over their physical functions. He could also fly. Later, he discovers why he was killed, and what happened to his hook-handed killer. The Hook was part of an organization that wanted Brand silenced after he uncovered some of their dealings.

In 1972, artist Jack Kirby was given the assignment of incorporating Deadman into his own series, "The Forever People" (issues #9 & 10) Deadman is given the task of stopping an organization called the Scavengers. He is aided by The Forever People, who create an artificial body for Deadman to inhabit (which looks like he would, if he could be seen), called The Follower.


Both 'spirited' heroes, The Spectre and Deadman have made appearances on animated TV shows, and still continue to thrill comic book readers to this day!!!


"EXTRA NOTE:  Although I haven't collected comic books for a long time, I decided to take part in "Free Comic Book Day" at 2 of the local comic dealers. I had a great time collecting several free comic books (including "Superman"), and a small "Batman" playing piece. I would they'd had special days like this when I was younger!