Doctor Doom is known for many things. He is a scientist, a sorcerer, and currently the Sorcerer Supreme of Earth. As ruler of Latveria, he is also a statesman. Few know, however, that for one magical Christmas Eve, he was also Santa Claus.
The tale of how Doctor Doom saved Christmas unfolded in 1990’s What The–?! #10. Written by Scott Lobdell with art by John Byrne, the story opens with Doom settling in for a long winter’s nap. He is roused, however, by the defenses of his castle snaring some intruders. This turns out to be Santa Claus, who was injured while delivering a gift to the ruler of Latveria.
While his wounds are not fatal, Santa is left unable to finish his yearly rounds. He asks for Doctor Doom to complete the run for him. In exchange, Santa promises him his heart’s desire, “no matter what it might be.” Honor-bound, Doom agrees and sets forth as “Santa Doom” to deliver toys to all the good children on Earth.
Doom, as Santa, nearly fought every hero in New York
Whatever else may be said of Victor Von Doom, he is not subtle. While he lived up to his bargain with Santa, he also got the attention of almost every superhero in New York City. Soon a posse led by the Fantastic Four was on the move to bring Doctor Doom to justice. The fact that he committed no crime that night mattered little to them.
By chance, Doom stood his ground in the courtyard of a children’s hospital. When one little girl asked why the heroes were trying to beat up Santa, Doom said the heroes had come to help him hand out toys for them all. Face saved, Doctor Doom was allowed to go about his business and completed his task with no further conflict.
Weeks later, after Santa had healed, he was ready to make good on his bargain. Doctor Doom dismissed him, however, saying his heart’s desire had already been taken care of. The comic ended with Doom clutching a teddy bear; a gift from the girl whose timely question saved him and enabled him to finish saving Christmas.
