The best deaths in comics: the tier list

Death is one of the most powerful forces in comics - even if the character comes back often. This tier list classifies deaths according to theirimpact at the time of their publicationand their posterity. Some have permanently changed their world. Criterion: dramatic force and shock wave.

Editorial Ranks, Factsverified. Each entry refers to a site file when it exists.

Tier S: the deaths that marked history

Ladeath of Gwen Stacy(1973) is often cited as the end of the Silver Age — an absolute shocker. ThereDeath of Superman(1992) made headlines around the world. The death ofJean Grayat the end of the Dark Phoenix Saga (1980) remains a tragic climax, and the assassination ofCaptain America(2007) shocked readers.

Tier A: the founding deaths

InCrisis on Infinite Earths(1985), the death ofSupergirland that of Barry Allen redefined DC. The death ofJason Todd(whose readers voted on the outcome by telephone) and that ofElektrahad a profound impact.

Tier B: the great disappearances

Ladeath of Wolverine(2014), those ofColossus, ofProfessorand ofBucky(1968, long definitive) each had a strong impact.

Tier C: the founding deaths

The death ofUncle Benand that ofparents of Bruce Wayneare the seminal deaths of two of the greatest heroes.Ferro LadetEarthcomplete this tier.

Tier D: notable deaths

The death ofTed Kord(Blue Beetle), that ofBill Foster(Civil War) and that ofUltimate Peter Parker(who launched Miles Morales) close this tier list.

To remember

• The death of Gwen Stacyis the most cited in the history of the medium.
• Many heroes return— death in comics is rarely permanent.
• The “death” numbers(ASM #121, Superman #75) are sought after keys.
• Each entry refers to a site file when it exists.

Frequently asked questions