Marvel’s Invisible Woman, Sue Storm-Richards, has established herself as one of the most cherished and distinguished heroes in the comic universe. First introduced in Fantastic Four #1, she has faced heartbreak and heroism, enduring tragedies like the loss of her second child and being coerced into a villainous identity as Malice. Despite these challenges, her contributions have been pivotal in numerous major conflicts within the Marvel Universe.
The significance of Sue Storm has not gone unnoticed; various publications have applauded her influence within Marvel and the broader comic book industry. Her likeness has even been preserved in wax at the esteemed Madame Tussauds Museum. While her name implies a singular power of invisibility, Sue’s abilities extend far beyond, showcasing her as potentially the best mother in the Marvel Universe.
The Humble Beginnings of The Fantastic Four’s Invisible Woman
Sue Storm’s Life Was Fairly Normal At First
Sue and her younger brother, Johnny Storm—who would ultimately transform into the Human Torch—experienced a fairly ordinary childhood until a tragic car accident claimed their mother’s life. Their father, a dedicated doctor, was consumed by guilt, sinking into depression and relying on alcohol and gambling to cope. This led to a fatal encounter with a loan shark, resulting in his imprisonment.
Afterward, Sue and Johnny moved in with their Aunt Marygay. While Johnny’s rebellious nature often brought trouble, Sue stepped into a maternal role, guiding him through their hardships. Even in their toughest moments, Johnny admired his sister’s strength and resilience.
Related
The Fantastic Four have had a long and complex history over the years, and there are tons of things about Marvel’s First Family that fans don’t know.
During this challenging period, Sue encountered Reed Richards, a brilliant man pursuing his multiple doctoral studies. Their initial meeting, which started through a search for off-campus housing, sparked Sue’s affection for Reed, although their romance would blossom only later. After high school, Sue relocated to Los Angeles to chase her dreams of acting and reconnected with Reed, igniting their romantic journey.
As their relationship evolved, Reed found himself grappling with a sudden termination of government funding for his ambitious space exploration project. Unfazed, he aimed to conduct a test flight before it was canceled. Sue persuaded both him and Johnny to accompany him, leading to a transformative event where they were exposed to cosmic radiation, returning to Earth with extraordinary powers.
Sue Storm and Reed Richards Belong Together
The Invisible Woman and Mister Fantastic Are One of Marvel’s Most Iconic Couples
Sue has steadfastly supported Reed throughout their journey, showcasing one of the most enduring superhero marriages. Their union is a testament against the odds often faced by comic book couples, with Reed and Sue exemplifying how superhero partnerships can thrive.
Despite external forces, including the persistent affections of Namor the Sub-Mariner, Sue has remained loyal to Reed, even as their story has unfolded through various alternative realities. However, in the primary Marvel continuity—Earth-616—Sue remains with Reed, illustrating the strength of their bond.
Related
With a new MCU movie on the horizon, the Fantastic Four’s supporting roster of characters needs to be filled in by this often forgotten gang.
There have also been fleeting moments when Sue flirted with T’Challa, yet nothing deeper transpired. Notably, there was a storyline where she appeared to marry Doctor Doom, only to reveal that it was actually Reed trapped within Doom’s armor.
Sue Storm’s Powers Go Beyond Invisibility
The Invisible Woman’s Powers Have Evolved Over the Years
Since her introduction in the 1960s, Sue’s powers have continually evolved. Her primary ability—total invisibility—allows her not only to disappear but also to make other objects and individuals unseen by bending light waves. Remarkably, she once made an entire planet in the Negative Zone invisible for a while.
Beyond mere invisibility, Sue possesses unique capabilities. She has temporarily blinded foes by rendering their retinas invisible and can manipulate color through light distortion—experiences that include dyeing her hair or changing The Thing’s color.
Related
Ben Grimm, aka The Thing, has more obvious mutations than his Fantastic Four teammates.
Besides invisibility, Sue has a distinctive form of perception; instead of seeing as most do, she perceives reflections of cosmic rays. This unique vision enables her to detect unseen entities, rendering them visible when she activates her powers. One of her most formidable abilities involves creating psionic force fields, which she can shape into impenetrable shields or offensive weaponry, demonstrating unmatched versatility in her heroic capabilities.
