15 Comic Book Characters Who Should've Stayed Dead

3. Barry Allen

Red Hood Jason Todd Robin
DC Comics

Barry Allen saved the entire multiverse by choosing to race to his demise in order to stop the Anti-Monitor. He did what no one else could, and in doing so, became the undeniable high point of the "Crisis on Infinite Earths."

It was simple. It was brilliant. It was poignant and beautiful. DC could've just left it there. One lone hero, who (depending on the comic) either became the lightning bolt that first game him his powers or became one with the Speed Force itself.

And yet, they cheapened the greatest death in comic book history and brought him back. Why? It's not like there aren't other fast people around. What could Barry do that they couldn't?

Ignoring the nostalgia pop, it quickly goes from a neat moment to an indictment of the current Flashes. They're not good enough, better bring in the old guy to get the job done. It truly tarnished all sides.

 
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