Heroes in Their Own Right
As children, we would get bored whenever a non-hero character took up screen time, but as adults, we appreciate the humans in the comic world. Being powerless around superheroes takes guts, and these 20 characters tend to steal the show without any perks.
1. J. Jonah Jameson
J. Jonah Jameson cemented himself as an iconic character since his first appearance in The Amazing Spider-Man #1 in 1963. Despite being a Spidey-hater, J.J. is a great guy with a heart of gold, who lends himself to great comic moments.
2. Alfred Pennyworth
Alfred is the epitome of loyalty and love, acting almost like a father to Bruce ever since his parents' passing. However, in his first appearance in 1943, he provided comedic relief but was eventually turned into the more sophisticated and talented confidante we know today.
3. Lois Lane
Undoubtedly the Queen of DC, Lois Lane made her first appearance in Action Comics #1 and has been synonymous with Superman since 1938. She showcases the limits of human ingenuity, as she’s fearless in the face of danger and is always pursuing truth and justice. She’s also one of the few people around that can anchor Superman.
Fleischer Studios on Wikimedia
4. Commissioner James Gordon
Commissioner Gordon is a trusty and reliable lawman who rarely ever leads Batman astray. More impressively, he is one of the few cops in the GCPD that rises above corruption and regularly uses the Bat-Signal to involve Batman in key operations.
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5. Mary Jane Watson
MJ is the quintessential girl next door. From her iconic lines to her free-spirited nature, it’s no wonder she’s Spidey’s main love interest through all the major arcs.
RyC - Behind The Lens from San Francisco, United States of America on Wikimedia
6. Jimmy Olsen
Jimmy showed up in radio serials before making his way into actual comic books. He’s now known as an enthusiastic photographer at The Daily Planet and a great friend of Supes.
7. Carol Ferris
Carol technically isn’t powerless, as she eventually goes on to become Star Sapphire. But before all the pink magic, she’s the CEO of Ferris Aircraft and a great rival and interest for Hal Jordan.
8. Foggy Nelson
With Daredevil set to return in another Netflix show, it’s clear to see that Foggy will continue standing by his side, ever since his initial introduction in 1964. While a comparatively insecure lawyer compared to Matt, Foggy always has his heart in the right place and is just the guy you need when wrestling with demons.
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9. Ma and Pa Kent
Ma and Pa Kent have been there for Superman since the very beginning, initially appearing in Superman #1 in 1939. Their kind hearts and simple ways are what turned Superman into such a grounded and thoughtful superhero.
10. Selina Kyle
On the other hand, Selina often finds herself at odds with the Bat and is more than happy to challenge him physically and morally. But of course, she’s at her best when she threads the line of friend, enemy, and lover.
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11. Felicia Hardy
Felicia made her first appearance in The Amazing Spider-Man #194 and is better known as Black Cat. Similar to her DC counterpart, Felicia has a knack for robbery and also has some romantic feelings for the webslinger.
12. Amanda Waller
While many of these characters are allies or lovers to the bigger superheroes in their lives, Amanda is neither. As arguably one of the most calculated and efficient villains out there, she’s as much of a threat to Superman as Doomsday and is one of the few people that can rival the Bat.
13. Lucius Fox
Lucius Fox first debuted in Batman #307, but despite this later introduction, he has become an essential part of Batman lore. He’s a genius businessman who runs the day-to-day at Wayne Enterprises and is also the person Bruce calls when he’s in need of shiny and lethal new toys.
14. Iris West
First appearing in Showcase #4 in 1956, Iris is better known as Barry Allen’s love interest and eventual wife. Keeping up with the fastest man alive is no issue for this girl, and she also keeps the trend of journalist wives going.
15. Gwen Stacy
When it comes to Spider-Man love interests, there are really only two camps to land in, and some fans can’t resist Gwen. As a bright and cheery science student, she matches Peter Parker perfectly, and in later renditions, becomes a superhero in her own right.
William Tung from USA on Wikimedia
16. Harvey Bullock
While Commissioner Gordon is a trusted and loyal friend, Harvey is a gruff alternative who isn’t afraid to criticize Batman. The fact that Harvey plays both sides of the coin—from corrupt cop to a clean one—adds the level of depth a Batman story needs.
17. Renee Montoya
Speaking of Batman cops, another stellar addition to consider is Renee, who was introduced in Batman: The Animated Series in 1992. She’s one of the most dedicated police officers around and works her way into Batman’s inner circle as well.
18. Nick Fury
As the leader of S.H.I.E.L.D., Nick Fury is as cunning and clever as he is in charge. He played a major hand in putting together the Avengers and is regarded as one of the most resourceful human agents around.
19. Barbara Gordon
The fact that Barbara has been a significant character as both Barbara, Batgirl, and Oracle speaks to her impact. She’s the insightful child of a police commissioner but also a vigilante in her own way. And when she loses the use of her limbs, she finds new and innovative ways to benefit the team.
20. Pepper Potts
One final love interest worth mentioning is Pepper Potts, who debuted in Tales of Suspense #45. Due to her loyal nature and clever comebacks, she quickly made her way from CEO assistant to Tony Stark’s most trusted confidante and wife.
