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 their impact at the time of their publication and their posterity. Some have permanently changed their world. Criterion: dramatic force and shock wave.

Editorial Ranks, Facts verified. 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 of Captain America(2007) shocked readers.

Tier A: the founding deaths

In Crisis on Infinite Earths(1985), the death ofSupergirland that of Barry Allen redefined DC. The death of Jason 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 of Colossus , of Professor and of Bucky(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 Lad and Earth complete this tier.

Tier D: notable deaths

The death of Ted Kord (Blue Beetle), that of Bill Foster (Civil War) and that of Ultimate Peter Parker(who launched Miles Morales) close this tier list.

To remember

• The death of Gwen Stacy is 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