Who Is Namor, the ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ Villain?

ROLES The final panel in Namor’s first story shows him diving back into the ocean and a caption promises further adventures in his crusade against the surface world. But a lot can change over 83 years and Namor has evolved, though his motivation sometimes seems caught in a revolving door. He has been a villain, a hero, an environmentalist and a corporate titan. And, despite being a relative loner, he’s been a member of the Avengers, the Defenders and the X-Men. Namor is complicated.

NOTABLE CONFLICTS One of the most exciting stories from Namor’s early days is a battle royale with the Human Torch, an android hero who also debuted in Marvel Comics No. 1. (This Human Torch is not to be confused with the Fantastic Four hero of the same name who arrived in 1961.) The three-issue set-to opened in Marvel Mystery Comics No. 8 and is an early example of the Marvel motto “to reflect the world outside your window.” The grudge match between the two takes place in New York City

Namor’s unpredictable actions are evident in the story. At the Bronx Zoo, he causes a stampede of elephants, but saves a baby from their destructive path. “This kid needs someone to look after him,” he says. But as onlookers begin to reconsider their opinion of him, he responds: “Bah! Stupid idiots! You’ll see.” Sure, Namor, sure.

UNREQUITED LOVE Namor graduated to his own series from 1941 to 1949. He then received a short revival in 1954, but his best times were still ahead — though the Fantastic Four, his new focus of scorn, may not agree. In 1962’s Fantastic Four No. 4, by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, Namor, who has amnesia, is discovered on the Bowery. He soon regains his memory and his mighty rage. Five issues later, he returns and finances a film about the quartet, but his secret goal is to make the Invisible Girl his wife. She spurns his advances, which only makes her more attractive to him. One of the most powerful weapons in the arsenal of Susan Storm Richards — these days known as the Invisible Woman — may be her ability to reason with Namor.

FUN FACT His catchphrase is “Imperius Rex!” After Namor shouted it in a comic book battle in 2019, Thor confessed, “After all these years, Namor, I still have no idea what that means.” Namor answered: “It means I’m going to feed your sorry Asgardian hide to the biggest sharks I can find.” Thor responded: “Why not just say that?” (Maybe because the English translation, “Empire King,” feels a little flat?) For a historic and educational look at the phrase, check out this Tumblr. Welcome to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Namor!