A brand new heroine within DC Comics has arisen in Superman’s absence with a moon and a bit of a cowgirl theme… **Spoilers for Superman No. 2 ahead**
A recent issue of Superman by writer Joshua Williamson and artist Jamal Campbell with letters from Ariana Maher sees the debut of a new super-heroine in the form of a gunslinger, Marilyn Moonlight. This is in Superman Vol. 6 No. 2 as per Looper.
Who is Marilyn Moonlight and what are her origins?
Following the last issue where Superman confronted Rudy Jones aka Parasite who was further strengthened by another of Supes’ enemies (presumed to be Lex Luthor) but when he is thought to have defeated him, clones of Parasite emerge.
Supercorp, a reformed corporation of Lexcorp, is attacked by hordes of miniature Parasite clones while a secret order of mad scientists observes the battle from afar. Amidst the infectious dilemma, Superman confronted the aforesaid gunslinger – Marilyn Moonlight – at the Daily Planet as the Super Family, Jon Kent/Superman, and Kara Zor-El/Supergirl attempt to keep the Parasites at bay.
Not much is known about Moonlight as she apparently is connected to Metropolis’ past and is supposed to be a vigilante crime-fighter who operated during Supes’ absence. Whoever the real identity of this figure is, it appears like she is a ghost or some kind of meta-human who has the power of ectoplasm, intangibility, and other supernatural abilities where she can project a ghost horse and guns.
What is the inspiration behind Marilyn Moonlight?
At first glance, Moonlight appeared to be a Western (perhaps from New Orleans) inversion of Marvel’s Moon Knight with a blend of Jonah Hex and Lazy Zorro. The design by Campbell is definitely unique with a white cowboy hat, domino mask, a Western outfit, and a black ponytail. Via an interview from CBR, Williamson stated the design was inspired by Metropolis itself and is a juxtaposition of Superman’s daytime stories.
More details of Moonlight should follow as the recurring threat of Parasite takes hold and the plot revolving around the mystery behind this secret mad scientist guild conducting experiments to augment the Man of Steel’s foes thicken. Superman No. 2 is in comic book stores now.
What do you think of the first appearance of Marilyn Moonlight? Are you enjoying the publisher’s “Dawn of DC” Initiative? Will go and pick up Superman No. 2? Sound off in the comments below!