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Red Guardian
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Creation & Design

Red Guardian was created during the Cold War era, reflecting the geopolitical tensions of the time. His design was inspired by Captain America, serving as a Soviet counterpart.

Early Years

Initially introduced as a villain to the Avengers, Red Guardian's character evolved over time, showcasing his complex motivations and loyalty to his country.

Character Development

Over the years, Red Guardian has transitioned from a villain to a more nuanced character, often portrayed as a hero with conflicting loyalties, reflecting the complexities of his background.

Cultural Reception

Red Guardian has received mixed reviews, often seen as a symbol of the Cold War era, but has gained a following for his depth and character development.

Character Details

Real Name:
Alexei Shostakov
First Appearance:
Avengers, The #43
Aliases:
Red Guardian, Captain Russia
Species:
Human
Gender:
Male
Affiliations:
Soviet Super-Soldiers, Avengers, Winter Guard
Abilities:
Superhuman strength, Enhanced agility, Expert martial artist, Skilled tactician
Equipment:
Red Guardian costume, Shield
Weight:
200lbs
Height:
6' 10"
Eye Color:
blue
Hair Color:
black

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Avengers, The #43
Marvel ⋅ 1967
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Avengers, The #43
 
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$30
Mid
$80
High
$280

Key Facts

1st appearance of the Red Guardian, Alexi Shostakov- husband of Natasha Romanova, the Black Widow

[July 2022 - Marvel recently trademarked the title Red Guardian: Generations / September 2022 - confirmed for the Thunderbolts movie]

Avengers, The #44
Marvel ⋅ 1967
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Avengers, The #44
 
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$5
Mid
$12
High
$55

Key Facts

Partial origin of the Black Widow

Origin and death of Natasha's husband, the Red Guardian

Defenders #35
Marvel ⋅ 1976
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Defenders #35
 
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$1
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$2
High
$5

Key Facts

1st appearance of the second Red Guardian, Tania Belinsky, later becomes Starlight

Marvel Super Heroes UK #380
Marvel UK ⋅ 1981
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Marvel Super Heroes UK #380
 
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$1
Mid
$3
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$12

Key Facts

1st cameo appearance of Opal Luna Saturnyne, Majestrix of the Omniverse

1st team appearance of Avant Guard

Reprint of Red Guardian first appearance from The Avengers #43 (1967)

Captain America #352
Marvel ⋅ 1989
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Captain America #352
 
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$3
Mid
$9
High
$30

Key Facts

1st team appearance of the Supreme Soviets: Perun, Sputnik, Crimson Dynamo, and Red Guardian, Josef Petkus

1st appearance of Fantasma

Namor The Sub-Mariner Annual #1
Marvel ⋅ 1991
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Namor The Sub-Mariner Annual #1
 
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$1
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$2
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$3

Key Facts

Origin of Namor

1st appearance of the third Red Guardian, Aleksey Lebedev who preceded the others in continuity

Iron Man #9
Marvel ⋅ 1998
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Iron Man #9
 
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$1
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$5
High
$15

Key Facts

1st team appearance of Winter Guard: Red Guardian, Vanguard, Sibercat, Darkstar, Vostok (Sputnik), Fantasma

Widowmaker #1
Marvel ⋅ 2011
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Widowmaker #1
 
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$1
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$2
High
$3

Key Facts

1st appearance of the third Ronin, revealed to be Alexi Shostakov, the original Red Guardian and husband of Black Widow

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