DC Comics is home to all manner of strange superheroes. However, Rex Mason, a.k.a. the Element Man Metamorpho, may be the strangest of all. Now, the Fab Freak is returning to save the world as part of a new monthly series in the DC All-In line.
First appearing in 1965’s Brave and the Bold #57 and created by Bob Haney and Ramona Fradon, Metamorpho is Rex Mason. An adventurer/archeologist by trade, Rex was forever transformed after being exposed to the radioactive Orb of Ra. This gave Rex the power to change his body into any element. Despite his monstrous new form, he still held the heart of heiress Sapphire Stagg. This vexed her father, corrupt scientist Simon Stagg, who was Rex’s most frequent adversary, as well as his employer.
While originally envisioned as a parody of other superheroes who acquired strange powers through radiation or ancient gods, Metamorpho evolved into more than a joke. He became a founding member of the Outsiders and a frequent ally of Batman. He also acquired a devout fan following among those who love oddball outcast heroes.
Metamorpho series features many mysteries
Mystery will be the watchword for the new Metamorpho: The Element Man series. The first issue will introduce a shadowy assassin who can match Rex change for change. He will also face a new threat in the form of the sinister organization called Cy.C.L.O.P.S.
Metamorpho: The Element Man will feature scripts by Al Ewing and art by Steve Lieber. Ewing is best known for his work at Marvel, where he is the current author of Immortal Thor. Lieber is a veteran illustrator whose recent DC works include the 2020 Jimmy Olsen series and 2022’s One Star Squadron.
“This is our take on classic DC comics,” continued Ewing. “Done-in-ones that’ll satisfy discerning Metamaniacs month by month as they build up to something so far out that it might just be a one-way ticket to nowheresville for a certain freak of a thousand changes! Who is the menacing Mister 3? What’s the sinister secret of Sugar Sweet? Who’s the target of Vandal Savage‘s million-year revenge? All these way-out mysteries and more will be answered in the New Age of Metamorpho—it’s our Xmas gift to you!”
Metamorpho: The Element Man #1 arrives in comic shops everywhere on December 25. 2024.
