Carol Susan Jane Danvers is a character appearing in American comic books published by Marvel Comics. Created by writer Roy Thomas and artist Gene Colan, the character first appeared as an officer in the United States Air Force and a colleague of the Kree superhero Mar-Vell in Marvel Super-Heroes #13. Danvers later became the first incarnation of Ms. Marvel in Ms. Marvel #1 after her DNA was fused with Mar-Vell's during an explosion, giving her superhuman powers. Debuting in the Silver Age of comics, the character was featured in a self-titled series in the late 1970s before becoming associated with the superhero teams the Avengers and the X-Men. The character has also been known as Binary, Warbird, and Captain Marvel at various points in her history, and as Vers in the film Captain Marvel.
Various incarnations of Carol Danvers. Clockwise from left: Ms. Marvel (original costume), Captain Marvel, Ms. Marvel (black costume), and Binary. Art by Alex Ross.
Writer Kelly Sue DeConnick signing copies of Captain Marvel at the 2014 New York Comic Con
Cosplayers dressed as Ms. Marvel and Captain Marvel
Captain Marvel at Madame Tussauds London
Marvel Comics is an American comic book publisher and the property of The Walt Disney Company since December 31, 2009, and a subsidiary of Disney Publishing Worldwide since March 2023. Marvel was founded in 1939 by Martin Goodman as Timely Comics, and by 1951 had generally become known as Atlas Comics. The Marvel era began in August 1961 with the launch of The Fantastic Four and other superhero titles created by Stan Lee, Jack Kirby, Steve Ditko, and many others. The Marvel brand, which had been used over the years and decades, was solidified as the company's primary brand.
Marvel Comics #1 (Oct. 1939), the first comic from Marvel precursor Timely Comics. Cover art by Frank R. Paul.
The Fantastic Four #1 (Nov. 1961). Cover art by Jack Kirby (penciler) and an unknown inker.
Cover of The Avengers #4 (Mar 1964), featuring the return of Captain America. Art by Jack Kirby.
Howard the Duck #8 (Jan. 1977). Cover art by Gene Colan and Steve Leialoha.