Who Came First: Deadpool or Deathstroke?

The debate over whether Deadpool is a ripoff of Deathstroke or vice versa has been a contentious topic among fans of comic books and superheroes. In reality, the truth lies somewhere in between, with Deadpool drawing inspiration from Deathstroke while developing his own unique traits and storylines.

Origin and Inspiration

Slade Wilson, better known as Deathstroke, was created by Marv Wolfman and George Pérez, first appearing in Challengers of the Unknown #75 in 1979. On the other hand, Wade Wilson, known as Deadpool, was created by Rob Liefeld and Fabian Nicieza, debuting in Way of the Hand-to-Hand #2 in 1991. While the two characters share a similar appearance and combat skills, Deadpool's design intentionally parodies Deathstroke's to create a more humorous and entertaining character.

A Parody or a Rival?

The relationship between Deadpool and Deathstroke is often discussed in terms of inspiration rather than outright copying. Both characters share a similar uniform, fighting techniques, and demeanor, which can make Deadpool seem like a direct copy. However, Deadpool's creators intended for him to be a parody or a reimagining of the archetype that Deathstroke represents.

Evolution and Distinctiveness

When Deadpool was first introduced, it was clear that he was an outright parody of Deathstroke. Over time, Deadpool has evolved into a more complex and fleshed-out character with his own distinct personality, humor, and storylines. In contrast, Deathstroke remains a more serious and static character.

While some fans might argue that Deadpool is a ripoff, the truth is that he began as a parody of Deathstroke before developing his own identity. This evolution is not unique to Deadpool but is a common theme in the comic book industry. Characters like the Hulk, who was initially based on Solomon Grundy, and Aquaman, who was inspired by the Submariner, have also developed significantly over time, becoming more unique and compelling characters in their own right.

Copycat Characters in the Comic Book World

The comic book world is rife with examples of characters inspired by each other. The Hulk, for instance, was created as a ripoff of Solomon Grundy, while Aquaman was modeled after the Submariner. Prior to their acquisition by DC, the Shaman character was also seen as a ripoff of Superman. This trend of characters inspired by each other is common, and it has led to a rich tapestry of interwoven storylines and character development.

Conclusion

In the end, it's clear that while Deadpool was initially inspired by Deathstroke, he has since evolved into a character capable of standing on his own. The evolution and development of comic book characters are a testament to the creativity and adaptability of their creators. Deadpool, with his humor and distinct personality, has become a beloved and iconic character in his own right.