Unlikely team-ups are not uncommon in superhero comics. Drama depends on conflict, and while that usually means heroes fighting villains, it can also mean heroes fighting heroes. Even if the heroes have some shared background and morality, there is no guarantee they will get along. This is a frequent issue for Shazam, who seems to butt heads with Black Adam more often than totally unrepentant villains.
Shazam #9 by Mark Waid and Emanuela Lupacchino is a prime example of this. The issue sets up a conflict between Billy Batson and Jack Ryder, during an interview for Ryder’s show. Despite both being broadcasters (albeit with Billy being an amateur podcaster) the two have wildly different approaches to journalism. The two are also radically different heroes, though Batson has no idea that Jack Ryder is the secret identity of the insane vigilante called The Creeper.
The cover and first four pages of Shazam #9 can be viewed below.
Why a Shazam/Creeper Team-Up Makes Sense
On the surface, Shazam and Creeper would seem to have nothing in common, even ignoring their alter egos’ personalities. Billy Batson’s Captain persona is one of the most powerful heroes in DC Comics and widely respected in the hero community. By contrast, the Creeper’s powers are remarkably limited, and he’s viewed as being little better than the villains he fights.
However, the two heroes do share one trait: their heroic personas are separate people than their secret identities. The Captain is not a grown up Billy Batson; a point that many fans (and DC Comics writers) get wrong. Similarly, when Jack Ryder transforms into The Creeper, a different personality takes over his body. It is a fine point of trivia, but also a fine justification for teaming two wildly different heroes together for the sake of a story.
Shazam #9 arrives in comic shops everywhere on March 5, 2024.
