10 Worst Things The Spectre Has Ever Done
5. Crispus Allen Nearly Let Depression Destroy The Spectre
After the Spectre’s murderous rampage throughout the world of magic, the Presence stepped in and forced his Wraith to accept the host of slain Gotham City detective, Crispus Allen. However, Allen may not have been the right choice.
When the Vengeful One first gave Crispus’ ghost the choice at his own funeral, he told the Spirit “No.” The Spectre gave the slain detective a year to reconsider. When next they met, Allen agreed to join with God's Agent of Wrath.
But Crispus Allen’s first action as the Spectre nearly destroyed him. He was forced to exact divine vengeance on his own son, Malcolm, for the murder of Allen’s murderer, corrupt cop James Corrigan, no relation to the Spectre’s long-time host. He ended his son’s life peacefully but was extremely unhappy with his role as the Spectre and deeply depressed. He used the Wraith’s powers to punish, but in the most superficial ways, such as turning Arthur Light into a candle.
After killing the Martian Manhunter, the supervillain Libra was able to evade the Spectre, adding to his depression. He was also forced to attack his former partner and friend Renee Montoya, the new Question. He caused her to lose the Spear of Destiny to the resurrected Cain, who forced the ghost to remake reality. Renee retrieved it and resurrected Malcolm Allen, healing Crispus’ soul. Now in full control, Allen set everything right.