Lights, Camera, Avengers: The Essential Wonder Man

Wonder Man lands on Disney+ on January 27th, which means the Marvel Cinematic Universe is about to get a lot more meta. Fans will finally get a look at Simon Williams, the character that bridges the gap between the Avengers and the satirical worlds of celebrity culture. Whether he’s helping out the Avengers or rocking his own solo adventure, here’s some essential Wonder Man reading before the premiere. You can check out these and 30,000+ other comics over on Marvel Unlimited.

The Origin Story- Avengers #9 (1964)

If you want to understand where Simon Williams started, plus his connection to the Avengers and Baron Zemo, look no further than Avengers #9 (1964). In Avengers 9, you get to meet failed businessman Simon Williams, who blames Tony Stark for his ruin.

The Hollywood Years – Wonder Man #1 (1986)

While a few things in the MCU are a direct replica of their comic book counterpart, it’s likely this one-shot of Wonder Man that debuted in March 1986 will likely set the tone and vibe for the Disney+ show. While it is unlikely we get a direct copy of the story in the tv show based on the released episode titles, this issue will likely directly influence Simon’s role as an actor and the balance between his powers and acting career. This issue shows Simon struggling with his self-doubt as an actor and his desire to build his own identity separate from the Avengers.

The Ultimate Bromance- Avengers #181 (1978) & Avengers Two: Wonder Man and The Beast (2000)

Look, there’s a lot of bromance in the Marvel Universe, but perhaps one of the most famous friendships is that of Simon Williams and Hank McCoy. Avengers #181 gives us a glimpse of the two hitting the town, taking in a movie together, and pondering why people flock to hero films. In Avengers Two: Wonder Man and The Beast, Roger Stern and Mark Bagley craft a three-issue series that gives you an in-depth look at the friendship between the two characters.

Simon Williams is back from the dead, and he’s got some redemption to seek in LA. Who better to tag along than his good ole friend Beast? The three-issue run feels way more like a buddy cop drama than a regular comic book, and is some of the most enjoyable interaction between Simon Williams and another character ever written.

Part of the Team- West Coast Avengers (1985)

Simon Williams serves as a founding member of the West Coast Avengers. This 102-issue run from 1985 to 1994 could serve as some inspiration for the show if the show chooses to lean into the California superheroes vibe of the comics. Additionally, this run explores the complicated and sometimes volatile relationship between Simon, The Vision, and Scarlet Witch. Will Wonder Man tie into the upcoming Vision Quest project? We don’t know yet, but if so inspiration will likely be drawn from West Coast Avengers.

The Modern Meta- Wonder Man (2006)

Also known as “My Fair Super Hero,” based on the title of the arc that covers the five issues, this is the modern version of Simon. Simon tries to rehabilitate a young villainess while dealing with his own fame. This run, by Peter David, Andrew Currie, and Drew Hennessy, showcases a different side of Simon. Simon struggles with his desire to be more than just a “muscle-bound hero” and someone who can truly make a difference in the world.

Wrapping Up

Ultimately, Marvel will probably blend a lot of these different stories to arrive at the version of Simon Williams we see on January 27th. However, if early reviews are to be believed, viewers are in for a treat through a show that feels both unique and undeniably like the Wonder Man people grew to love through the comics.

Check out Wonder Man premiering on Disney+ on January 27th, at 6 pm PST/8 pm CST.

Are you excited for Wonder Man? Let me know in the comments.