Ghost Rider

Guide Note

Ghost Rider is a fictional superhero and the star of several comic book series published by Marvel Comics. Though the character is not as well known as some flagship Marvel characters like Spider-Man and Captain America,

Fast Facts

1. First appearance: Marvel Spotlight #5 (1972)
2. Created by Roy Thomas, Gary Friedrich and Mike Ploog
3. Alter-egos: Johnny Blaze or Daniel Ketch
4. Powers: Super-strength, flaming motorcycle, enchanted chain, penance stare
5. Played by Nicolas Cage in film

Ghost Rider is the spirit of vengeance, a demon that walks (or rides on, as it were) the earth, bringing vengeance to those who have committed wrongs on others and have not repented or been punished for their crimes. To this end, Ghost Rider's most fearsome ability is the penance stare: he looks into the eyes of perpetrators and the penance stare makes them feel all the pain they've caused their victims in a single moment. Though it causes no physical damage, it typically has a powerful psychological effect; very few can even stand up or snap out of the stupor caused by Ghost Rider's gaze.