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Thunderbird (James)
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Creation & Design

Thunderbird was created by writer Len Wein and artist Dave Cockrum as part of the new team of X-Men in the 1970s, representing a more diverse group of characters.

Early Years

John Proudstar was introduced as a member of the second generation of X-Men, showcasing his abilities and cultural background as a Native American mutant.

Character Development

Over the years, Thunderbird has evolved from a tragic figure to a more complex character, exploring themes of identity, heritage, and redemption.

Cultural Reception

Thunderbird has been recognized for his representation of Native American culture in comics, though his initial portrayal faced criticism for stereotypes.

Character Details

Real Name:
John Proudstar
First Appearance:
New Mutants #16
Aliases:
Thunderbird
Species:
Mutant
Gender:
Male
Affiliations:
X-Men, X-Force
Abilities:
Superhuman strength, Enhanced agility, Flight
Weight:
200lbs
Height:
6' 0"
Eye Color:
brown
Hair Color:
black

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New Mutants #16
Marvel ⋅ 1984
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New Mutants #16
 
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Key Facts

1st appearance of James Proudstar, the second Thunderbird, later becomes Warpath

1st team appearance of the Hellions: Roulette, Empath, Jetstream, Tarot, Thunderbird, Catseye

New Mutants #17
Marvel ⋅ 1984
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New Mutants #17
 
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Key Facts

2nd appearance of Thunderbird, James Proudstar

Uncanny X-Men #193
Marvel ⋅ 1985
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Uncanny X-Men #193
 
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Key Facts

1st appearance of Firestar in mainstream continuity, previously appeared in the comic book adaptation of the animated series 'Spider-Man and His Amazing Friends'

James Proudstar appears in the classic Thunderbird costume

New Mutants #99
Marvel ⋅ 1991
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New Mutants #99
 
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Key Facts

1st appearance of Shatterstar

1st appearance of Feral

Thunderbird becomes Warpath, new codename first used in X-Force #1

[November 2022 - Lewis Tan teases a potential return as Shatterstar for Deadpool 3 on Twitter]

New Mutants #100
Marvel ⋅ 1991
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New Mutants #100
 
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Key Facts

1st team appearance of X-Force: Cable, Shatterstar, Feral, Cannonball, Boom Boom, Domino, Warpath

The New Mutants become X-Force, renamed by Cable

Stryfe is revealed to be a clone of Cable

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