15 Most Notoriously Controversial Storylines In Comic Book History

3. Speedy Addicted To Heroin

Green Arrow and Green Lantern, who were both slightly disillusioned with their roles as heroes, decided to head out on an American road trip that explored a number of social and political issues that were relevant at the time. Written by Denny O'Niel, we saw the Emerald Archer and the Galactic Guardian in a new light over the course of the series, which culminated in one of the most iconic storylines in DC history. Returning from their extended road trip, Ollie and Hal are shocked to find out that Roy Harper AKA Speedy, who was Green Arrow's sidekick as well as a founding member of the Teen Titans, was a junkie. Roy had fallen into a bad place while Ollie was off touring the US, and he became addicted to heroin in a storyline that brought the growing drug problem to the forefront of the comic industry. Roy eventually recovers with the help of Black Canary, but his character would deal with this storyline and his time as a junkie for the rest of his career as a hero. The comic sparked instant controversy despite the issues clear warning against drug use, but not all controversy is necessarily a bad thing. The award-winning issue raised a number of important questions regarding the rising drug problem among youth during that period of time, and focused not only on Roy's drug problems, but how it affected his supporting cast as well. This iconic and controversial storyline is remembered quite fondly today by fans and creators.