10 Insanely Awkward Moments In Marvel Comics History
5. Tony Stark's Alcoholism - Iron Man #120-193 (1979-1985)
After Tony Stark learns that SHIELD was secretly buying stock in his company to build their own weapons, Stark becomes an alcoholic. This is infamously depicted in The Demon In A Bottle story in Iron Man #128.
Now, there are many story arcs where a superhero has a personal problem which they overcome after several issues.
But Marvel didn't want to sugarcoat the severity of alcoholism or depict it as an issue one could fix with ease. To showcase just how destructive alcoholism is, this storyline went on for a staggering 73 issues over a period of six years.
And what was the most awkward moment? Well, take your pick. Stark lashing out at his friends for trying to help him. Being sober for several months but then relapsing. Losing his company to his mortal enemy. His best friend, Jim Rhodes, turning against him.
Captain America telling Stark he's ashamed of him. Watching the former Avenger living in a cardboard box. Nearly killing an innocent man while piloting the Iron Man suit drunk.
Even though Stark has been sober for years, this period still haunts him every single day.