Marvel is expanding the world of its hit Disney+ series, Wonder Man, with a new comic book iteration of the character – and this one will be different. A new Wonder Man series, announced at ComicsPRO 2026, will introduce a Black Wonder Man into the Marvel Universe, arriving this summer.
The arrival of this new character comes on the heels of the surprisingly successful television adaptation starring Yahya Abdul-Mateen II. The show reimagines Simon Williams, traditionally depicted as a villain-turned-hero, as a struggling actor navigating a life complicated by superhuman abilities. The series has resonated with audiences, prompting renewed interest in the character’s comic book origins.
While the original Wonder Man debuted in the 1960s as an antagonist in The Avengers, he later reformed and became a long-standing member of the team. His backstory involves being granted powers by Baron Zemo, a plot point that differs significantly from the MCU’s portrayal. The MCU version presents Simon Williams as a mutant whose powers manifested earlier in life.
However, the new comic book Wonder Man isn’t expected to be a direct adaptation of Abdul-Mateen II’s portrayal, nor is he likely to be the original Simon Williams. Details remain scarce, but indications suggest this new hero will gain his powers through exposure to “Origin Boxes” recovered from the Ultimate Universe. These boxes contain the catalysts for superpowers, originally stolen by The Maker to prevent the creation of heroes in that alternate reality.
The introduction of this new Wonder Man is part of Marvel’s “Reborn: Ultimate Impact” event, a five-issue series launching in May . The series, written by Chris Condon and illustrated by Stefano Caselli, will also introduce another new character, Hostilicus, both empowered by the Origin Boxes. A first look at the new Wonder Man was revealed at ComicsPRO, showcasing his design on the cover of Reborn: Ultimate Impact #1.
The decision to introduce a Black Wonder Man echoes a trend of diversifying Marvel’s roster, and is widely seen as a direct response to the positive reception of Abdul-Mateen II’s casting. Marvel Studios’ choice to cast a Black actor as Simon Williams in the MCU was praised for its representation and for showcasing Abdul-Mateen II’s talent, following his acclaimed performance in the 2021 Candyman remake.
The question now becomes: what does this mean for the original Simon Williams? Marvel has previously introduced alternate versions of established characters, such as a Black Nick Fury who was revealed to be the son of the original. This pattern raises the possibility that the original Wonder Man may be sidelined or reimagined in the comics, potentially even taking on a villainous role.
The “Reborn: Ultimate Impact” event promises to reshape the Marvel Universe, bringing characters and concepts from the Ultimate Universe into the main 616 continuity. The introduction of a new Wonder Man, empowered by the remnants of that alternate reality, signals a significant shift in the character’s legacy and a potential new direction for the hero in the comics.
The official synopsis for Reborn: Ultimate Impact #1 reads: “THE ULTIMATE UNIVERSE’S LEGACY LIVES ON! Miles Morales returned from the Ultimate Universe with a plan: safeguard the ORIGIN BOXES – catalysts for the creation of new super heroes – before they fall into the wrong hands! But the secret is out as Miles’ battle over the boxes engulfs the entire Marvel U! This May, Chris Condon (ULTIMATE WOLVERINE) and Stefano Caselli (ULTIMATE BLACK PANTHER) team up to create stunning and unforgettable new characters on both sides of a conflict that will shape the future of the 616!”
