Whizzer (comics)

The Whizzer is the name of multiple fictional superheroes appearing in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The most prominent Whizzer is Robert Frank, who first appeared in USA Comics #1 (August 1941), published by Timely Comics, the predecessor to Marvel Comics.

Robert Frank (The Golden Age Whizzer): Robert Frank gained his super-speed powers after being bitten by a cobra and subsequently given an injection of mongoose blood by his father to counteract the venom. This mutation granted him enhanced speed, reflexes, and stamina. As the Whizzer, he fought alongside other Golden Age heroes during World War II and was a member of the All-Winners Squad. His powers eventually began to fade, leading to periods of mental instability. Robert Frank has a complicated history within the Marvel Universe, including a debated claim of being the father of Quicksilver and Scarlet Witch, though this has since been retconned.

Other Whizzers: There have been other characters who have taken on the mantle of the Whizzer, most notably:

• James Sanders (Squadron Supreme Whizzer): A member of the Squadron Supreme, a team based on DC Comics' Justice League. He also possesses super-speed.

The Whizzer, primarily Robert Frank, remains a notable, though sometimes tragic, figure in the history of Marvel Comics, representing a unique example of a Golden Age superhero whose powers and mental state have been explored in detail over the decades. His appearances have ranged from heroic endeavors to struggles with his own identity and abilities.