10 Greatest Superhero Replacements That Outshone The Originals

Appearing in Marvel Comics # 1, the original Human Torch was moulded in the vein of science fiction tales. An invention by Dr. Phineas Horton, the Torch was an android who had the ability to control flames. While initially a menace to the public, he soon became a hero and protected human beings. This Human Torch would also go up against Namor, the Sub-Mariner while encountering heroes such as Captain America and Bucky Barnes. Despite this, the character fell into obscurity in the 1950s.

In 1961, Stan Lee and Jack Kirby breathed new life into the character. Repurposing the character into their new team, The Fantastic Four, he was given a new identity. This new version was now teenager Johnny Storm. When he and his compatriots, Reed Richards, Ben Grimm and sister Sue Storm were exposed to cosmic rays, they all received powers. In Johnny's case, he had the ability to set himself on fire and throw flame projectiles. While he'd occasionally butt heads with Grimm, aka The Thing, Johnny became an invaluable member of the team.

While the original Human Torch was Marvel's first superhero, Johnny Storm and The Fantastic Four officially launched the Marvel Age of Superheroes. As Marvel's first family, their success led to other titles such as Spider-Man, The Avengers, The Mighty Thor and many more.