Wikipedia

Doctor Fate (Khalid Nassour)

Dr. Khalid Nassour (Arabic: نصّور خالد) is a superhero featured in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by Paul Levitz and artist Sonny Liew, the character first appeared in Aquaman: Convergence #2 (July, 2015). Being the eighth character to have adopted the Doctor Fate codename, the character was created as a reimagining of the original version with inspiration drawn from other heroes such as Spider-Man and Doctor Strange. Unlike prior versions within the main continuity, the character has profound ties to the Egyptian aspect of the character[2] and is first Muslim[3] character in DC Comics to headline a solo series.[4]

Khalid Nassour
Doctor Fate
Khalid Nassour's design as Doctor Fate. Art by Álvaro Martínez Bueno.
Publication information
PublisherDC Comics
First appearanceConvergence: Aquaman #2 (July, 2015)
Created byPaul Levitz
Sonny Liew
In-story information
Alter egoKhalid Kent Nassour[1]
SpeciesHuman (comics)
Homo Magi (select media)
Place of originBrooklyn, New York
Team affiliationsJustice League
Justice League Dark
Justice Society of America
Lords of Order
PartnershipsStitch
Doctor Fate (Kent Nelson)
Salem the Witch Girl
Patrons: Nabu, Bastet, Hauhet
JLD Partners: Man-Bat (Kirk Langstrom, Zatanna
Notable aliasesFate, Young Fate, Son of Pharaohs, Khalid Nelson, Kent
Abilities
  • Immortality
  • Mastery in magic, spell-casting, and knowledgeable in the supernatural; mystic artifacts (Helmet of Fate, Cloak of Destiny, Amulet of Anubis) bolsters and grants various additional magical powers, including fourth wall awareness
  • Skilled physician and hand-to-hand combatant

The character made his initial debut as a Brooklyn born-college graduate of Egyptian and White American heritage. While aspiring to become a physician, Khalid is chosen by ancient Egyptian deities and archangels to be the next bearer of the Helmet of Fate, making him the latest incarnation of Doctor Fate. As Doctor Fate, a legacy hero tasked with safeguarding the universe against supernatural menaces as one of DC Universe's foremost magical practitioners, he is supported by Nabu[1] and later mentored by the original Doctor Fate, Kent Nelson, who is revealed to be his great-uncle.[5] Since his debut in 2015, the character has been featured in various titles such as his Doctor Fate title and a reoccurring supporting character within the Justice League Dark and Justice Society of America, playing a pivotal role in several storylines. Overtime, the character later is depicted as a medical school graduate supported by the enigmatic Hauhet in place of Nabu, whose disappearance alongside her agenda remains a mystery.[6]

Reactions to the character has were generally mixed to positive. Some expressed the character to be a positive step towards representation in comics[4] and believed the incorporation of an Egyptian-born character to make sense.[7] Others expressed concerns of the character's age diminishing the original version's struggles[8] and the character invoking much of Egypt's past instead of modern history as well as his ultimate role in storylines.[9] Currently, he is the second longest-running incarnation of Doctor Fate to be published continuously.

Thus far, the character has made few appearances in media. He would make his first media appearance in the animated series Young Justice, voiced by Usman Ally. He would also appear as a DLC summon character in Scribblenauts Unmasked: A DC Comics Adventure.

Publication history

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After the conclusion of the Convergence limited series in June 2015 and the start of the "DC You" line, DC launched a new Doctor Fate ongoing series, written by Paul Levitz and drawn by Sonny Liew. The title focused on the newest Doctor Fate, an Egyptian-American medical student named Khalid Nassour. According to Levitz, Dan Didio and Jim Lee wanted a different feel from the original incarnation when Gardner Fox created him during the Golden Age of Comic Books. Levitz said the Egyptian connection of the original is what fascinated him the most.

So looking at the kinds of diversity we have today, and remembering a bunch of my conversations with Egyptian Americans, I just thought, what if a person who gets the helmet this time, in this world, is an Egyptian American young man?[2]

And for a visual look, the guys really wanted something fresh - not the standard superhero approach that's been going on for the last few years. I liked Sonny Liew's work years ago on My Faith in Frankie, and ran into him in Singapore a few years ago when I got the chance to be the guest of honor at a convention there. And I've watched his work and stayed aware of it in the years since.[2]

The series ran for 18 issues from June 2015 to November 2016.[10] In the series, Khalid's origin story revolves around him coming to terms with his destiny to oppose the dark god Anubis, having been chosen by the Egyptian gods (Bastet notably) and Nabu himself as the next sorcerer in line to bear the mantle "Doctor Fate". Thrusted into conflict with Anubis, Khalid eventually embraces his destiny and pharaonic ancestry, defeating Anubis in the process and becoming the new Doctor Fate.[1] The series also featured stories involving Khalid using his powers to defusing riots at the United Nations while balancing his life as a medical student. It is also revealed his mother, Elizabeth Nassour, to be the niece of Kent Nelson, who he becomes an apprentice under.[5][11]

In 2018, DC launched a second Justice League Dark series written by James Tynion IV starring a new roster led by Wonder Woman. In this roster, Khalid was revealed to be an eventual new member of the Justice League as the lead Doctor Fate instead of Kent Nelson. The character also was redesigned with a new Doctor Fate costume.[12]

While the original 2018 series was cancelled in 2020, the Justice League Dark series was instead re-purposed as a backup issue to the mainstream Justice League title, the backup issue written by award-winning author Ram V featuring a new storyline with Khalid remaining a reoccurring member of the Justice League Dark subdivision.[13] Khalid would also appear in several title crossovers such as Superman, Teen Titans Academy, and The Flash.

In late-2022, it was revealed that Khalid was slated to appear in the upcoming Justice of Society of America relaunch title, with Geoff Johns stating his role will include the exploration of the Doctor Fate as a legacy character while Khalid's story and role will act as a continuation of Ram V's Justice League Dark.[14]

Fictional character biography

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Origin and early adventures

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A summa cum laude graduate accepted into Weill Cornell Medicine, twenty-two year old[15] Khalid Nassour shops for a gift for his girlfriend in the Brooklyn Museum's gift shop when he stumbles upon a statue of the goddess Bastet, whom chooses the young man as the new Doctor Fate, given the task of "healing the world" and granting him the Helmet of Fate. Reluctantly accepting the call, he is thrusted into a godly conflict as Anubis, the Egyptian god of the underworld, seeks to elevate his divine station and targets Nassour and his family. With his pharaoh lineage blessing him with affinity for magic and guided by the wise but vague spirit, Nabu, Khalid works to understand both the powers of Doctor Fate and defeat Anubis even as the global devastation he causes uproots Khalid's school life and a brutal attack on his father leaves him blind. In a decisive battle between the two, Khalid is defeated and taken in the underworld. Thoth intervenes and fails to stop Anubis, but gifts Khalid the Staff of Power, allowing him the power to oppose Anubis even in his place of power and defeats him. This victory marks the beginning of his responsibilities as Doctor Fate.[1]

In subsequent storylines, Khalid continues faces the challenges of balancing his life as Doctor Fate with his personal endeavors. He struggles with his limited knowledge of the supernatural and the ambiguous guidance of Nabu. He thwarts the plot of an Egyptian General and necromancer who uses the spirit of Julius Caesar and his revived Roman warriors in a bid of power, which endangered childhood friend, Akila. Khalid also learns of his great uncle Kent Nelson, who reveals himself as the previous Doctor Fate.[5] Khalid comes to be mentored by the elder sorcerer as the pair next battle a revenge seeking Osiris and his forces, believing Doctor Fate's actions with Anubis to be unjust. The intervention of Bastet and the archangels under Allah reveals Anubis's deception to Osiris and he lets Khalid live. The young sorcerer also battles the entity Clothorus, whose actions in manipulating the fates of others places Akila in danger once more, and he succeeds in defeating her.[11]

Justice League Dark

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Khalid Nassour's redesign as Doctor Fate depicted in Batman vs. Robin #3 (February 2023). Art by Simone Di Meo.

Years later following DC Rebirth, Khalid re-emerges in the 2017 Justice League Dark series. It is revealed he has been trapped inside a vase by an insane Nabu while under his apprenticeship with Nelson. When the Justice League Dark seeks Nabu's council to battle the Otherkind, in a fleeting moment, Khalid warns members of the team about Nabu taking Nelson's body before he is ensnared once more.[16] The next storyline reveals the events predating his ensnaring into a vase; while training under Kent, he witnesses a disagreement between Kent and Nabu regarding the resurgence of the Tree of Wonder and the threat posed by the Otherkind, a race that consumes magic. Later that night, Khalid watches Nabu control Kent's body and meet with other Lords of Order in secret, where Nabu plots to destroy the Sphere of the Gods, which will starve the Otherkind at the expense of killing everything related to the supernatural. When he is found out, Nabu resorts to sealing him away when he Kent's limited influence prevents him from killing the young sorcerer to silence him permanently.[16]

Following the events of The Witching Hour, Khalid is freed by Kirk Langstrom, the scientist of the Justice League Dark seeking reformation and understanding magic. The pair travel of Myrra and align themselves with the resistance group led by Blue Devil and Detective Chimp in their conflict against Nabu and other Lords of Order. As their efforts are on the brink of failure, Wonder Woman, Zatanna, and other members of the Justice League Dark are empowered by Mordru and the Ruby of Life, granting them powers as Lords of Chaos briefly. Turning the tide of battle, Nabu and Kent are separated and various sorcerers and heroes help defeat Nabu. The event finalizes Kent's disillusion with the Doctor Fate role, with the mantle's reputation now damaged. While both Kent and Khalid join the Justice League Dark on a consultant basis to further fill their ranks with legitimate practitioners, Kent supports Khalid taking the role eventually even as he is reluctant.[16]

Shortly after during the Witching War, Circe founds the Injustice League Dark, the antithesis of the group, and strikes at the team now possessing the total power of the goddess Hecate, revealed to be a progenitor of magic. With little choice, Khalid makes a deal with Nabu and officially succeeds Kent as Doctor Fate, retaining his agency and playing a critical role in defeating Circe and undoing the damage she brought to the team. In the aftermath, Khalid becomes a full member of the team.[17]

In a later dilemma, Khalid helps Justice League Dark restore order among the elemental forces using a ritual known as the "Parliament of Life". As Kent leaves the team to resume his retirement, the team faces the Otherkind's leader Upside-Down Man as Zatanna learns her father, Zatara, has been trapped in his realm. Detective Chimp is entrusted by Wonder Woman to look after Khalid as a contingency if the pair are unable to defeat him, as Khalid is the only other sorcerer powerful enough to oppose him. Instead, the team uses Khalid and John Constantine's magic skeleton key to grant entry to the Other Place and help the women fight Upside-Down Man. The situation becomes more serious as Constantine is grievously injured and Khalid unleashes all his powers against the entity to buy the team time to defeat him. Khalid is eventually defeated and Kent sacrifices himself to create an attack power enough to destroy Upside-Down Man. Kent's attempt fail although Zatanna manages to find a way to defeat him. In the aftermath, as the team gather in Oblivion Bar, Khalid informs Detective Chimp Kent's sacrificed depleted the helm of its power and believed he failed his mentor, with the chimpanzee revealing Kent made a sacrifice having faith in Khalid's abilities.[18]

During the Infinite Frontier era, Khalid would make various appearance throughout various titles, billed as a member of both the Justice League and Justice League Dark as the sole incarnation of Doctor Fate.[18][19] He teams up with Superman to battle Xanadoth, a powerful Lord of Chaos, while also serving as the hero's therapist following his identity being outed to the public.[20] It is also revealed that one of the Teen Titans Academy student, Stitch, is actually Doctor Fate's apprentice whom had since enlisted into the academy to help them understand what it means to be a hero.[21] Alongside the team, Khalid helps Flash (Wally West) defeat Eclipso.[22]

In the Justice League title, Khalid and Zatanna receive a premonition of Black Adam under control, in which is eventually revealed to be from the actions of Xanadoth, an enemy Superman and Doctor Fate previously battled. Usurping Black Adam's body, she also pilfers the Helmet of Fate and once more seeks other artifacts relating to the Lords of Chaos and Order. The Justice League invoke Nabu's aid, who believes her too powerful. This changes when Nabu learns of Naomi McDuffie, whose power can enhance magical energy. The Justice League and Justice League Dark lead an asssault on Xanadoth, freeing Black Adam from her control and regaining the Helmet of Fate before their combined efforts defeats the Lords of Chaos once more.[19]

In the final storyline of the second volume Justice League Dark (now a back-up series in the main Justice League title), the team faces a corrupted Merlin whose innocence was removed by the machinations of the spirit of Darkseid's deceased father, Yuga Khan. Now seeking to control all of magic, Merlin first seeks to bolster his ranks with powerful practitioners of magic. Meanwhile, Khalid and Kirk work to give power back to the helm through science, succeeding but learn Nabu is no longer the spirit within the helm. With his complete power restored, Khalid assists the team battle Merlin, who attacks Atlantis and revives the sorcerer god-king Arion under his mental thrall, as Arion possess the power to control the reputably uncontrollable magic of Darkworld on account of being natively connected to the relam, granting Merlin control over another aspect of magic. The team loses the initial battle, with Khalid having visions of the Merlin causing the fall of the Tower of Fate. It is hinted throughout the story Jason Blood will eventually be manipulated by Merlin to joining his side, a fact known to Khalid. Khalid also witnesses Zatanna make a magic deal with Mister E, a magician killer who acquired Merlin's lost child-like innocence extracted by Yuga Khan in exchange for them acquiring a magical artifact Merlin possess that allows him to control magical sources itself. The young sorcerer learns through Wonder Woman the new spirit within the helm: Hauhet.[23]

Dark Crisis on Infinite Earths (2022)

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Khalid would appear in the Dark Crisis storyline, with Superman (Jon Kent) requested him to use his magical powers to find the missing members of the Justice League. Unable to find them on any plane of existence, Superman concludes that the core members of the Justice League were seemingly killed.[24] It is later revealed that Doctor Fate is among the members of the newly reformed Justice Society of America.[25]

Lazarus Planet (2022-2023)

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In the prelude within the pages of Batman and Robin, it is revealed that the antagonist of the storyline, the Devil Nezha (loosely based upon the Chinese mythological entity) usurped the Helmet of Fate in an attempt to give him an edge against his adoptive son, Red Boy (who is known as King Fire Bull in the story). Eventually, the helm is broken in battle and falls into the Lazarus Pit, causing worldwide storms that empower anyone exposed to them and alter existing abilities. While the Helm of Fate is prominent, Khalid is notably absent from the story.[26] In the Lazarus Planet event, Mary Marvel notes that nobody has been able to contact Doctor Fate.[27] It is later revealed that Nezha had previously bested Khalid and trapped him within his subconscious. Dreamer contacts him, but is unable to free him and speaks to Hauhet. She reveals that even without the helm, he maintains a deep connection to it but cannot be awaken until the Helm itself is found.[28]

Dawn of DC (2023 - 2024)

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Following the Dark Crisis and Lazarus Planet, various changes came to the character as his appearances in the Justice Society of America title acts as a continuation of his appearances in Ram V's Justice League Dark backup issues;[14] despite Lazarus Planet running concurrent to the Justice Society of America title (which preceded the event itself) and the character's status during the event, Justice Society of America establishes that the events within the book takes place some time after the events of Lazarus Planet.[29] The character is also established to have completed medical school, having then began working as an intern doctor.[6] The title similarly reveals the title's story takes place one year after the events of Khalid's Doctor Fate series,[6] conflicting with James Tynion IV's 2017 run on Justice League Dark having previously established events onward to have taken place at least over one year after the series, the story mentioning the character having been trapped in a vase by Nabu (as revealed in the Lords of Order storyline) for much of that duration before being set free.[17] This was also mention during Infinite Frontier in Brian Michael Bendis's Superman/Doctor Fate crossover in 2021.[20]

Justice Society of America (2023 - 2024)

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In the first major storyline of the series, Nassour enlisted the aid of Detective Chimp and Deadman to better understand the agenda of the new spirit within the helm, Hauhet. They're interrupted by Hauhet's premonitions and the appearance of future bound Helena Wayne, both consecutive events revealing the emergence of a empowered Per Degaton who seeks to destroy the JSA across time with a ritual capable of replacing events with his own manipulations and has killed Khalid's future self. With the JSA and JLD together, the teams devise the means to defeat Degaton. Khalid uses his powers to bring various iterations of the JSA together to thwart Degaton's plans, sealing his fate with the help of the other Doctor Fates.[30]

The subsequent storyline shows Nassour's encounter with Salem, the former apprentice of Kent erased from time. Rejecting his status as the inheritor of the Doctor Fate mantle, their relationship becomes turbulent even as the pair and the JSA embark on Helena's mission to recruit members from her time in the present. Due to her hostility, Khalid guides Salem in a new path within the JSA in his place hoping this will allow them to improve their relationship in the future but is visited by the Legion of Substitute Heroes seeking his assistance in the 30th Century.[31] Disappearing for months in the 30th Century, he reappears to the team to reveal Yolanda Montez as a traitor in their ranks, whom is possessed by Eclipso and has subtly pitted the Legion of Superheroes and JSA against one another over the potential membership of a younger hero version of Mordru, known as the Legionaire, seeking to avert his future with Helena Wayne's help. When Eclipso is defeated from the pair, Salem reconciles with Khalid, recognizing his courage and becomes open to being a future ally before leaving to Limbo Town.[32]

Knight Terrors (2023)

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In the tie-in issue of Wonder Woman's "Knight Terrors" storyline, Khalid makes a cameo appearance. The primary focus of the event revolves around the villain Insomnia and his quest to obtain the Nightmare Stone. With his own formidable powers, Insomnia casts a potent nightmare spell, enveloping the world in a realm of fear and dread. Within Constantine's own nightmare in the tie-in issue, while under the influence of Insomnia's spell, Khalid is among the members of the Justice League Dark

Absolute Power (2024)

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In the company "Absolute Power" crossover, Khalid alongside the Spectre/James Corrigan is among the many superheroes whom are attacked by the Amazo robots under Amanda Waller's control, whose Bearau of Sovereignty launches a campaign of depowering all active superheroes, including those of mystical capabilities.[33] Doctor Fate is later revealed to be subsequentially among those detained in a supermax prison.[34]

Characterization

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Khalid Nassour

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Khalid Nassour unmasked as seen in Justice League Dark (2018) #27. Art by Amancay Nahuelpan.

Doctor Fate's secret identity is Khalid Nassour, a Muslim Egyptian-American who is initially introduced as a medical student early in the character's publication history.[35][1] Within the solo series featuring the aforementioned incarnation, the character is also revealed to have been a former emergency medical technician (EMT) and a college graduate prior to the first issue and has an explicit interest in the medical field.[1] As a newly chosen Doctor Fate, the character grapples with both the immense power of the helm, striking a balance between his dual life as a sorcerous superhero, and coming to terms with the implications of his role within his religious beliefs, as both figures of Islamic faith and the ancient Egyptian deities co-exist.[1]

Later depictions evolved the character into a more seasoned hero shouldering the overwhelming responsibilities of Doctor Fate, serving as a mystic consultant, a protector against evil, and uses his medical expertise to assist others[20][36] while assisted by Stitch, a non-binary animated ragdoll character who serves as his sidekick and surrogate child.[37] Nassour's character is a reoccurring member of the Justice League and Justice League Dark, serving as a premier hero comparable to Zatanna[19] and is sometimes portrayed a leadership position in the absence of Zatanna and Wonder Woman.[22][23][38] He also shares dual affiliation with the Justice Society of America.[30]

Characteristics

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When designing the character, Khalid was designed with a specific focus on the Egyptian aspect of the Doctor Fate mythology. Levitz incorporated elements of bi-racial heritage into Khalid's character, blending Egyptian and White American backgrounds. This approach aimed to emphasize the character's connection to the Egyptian origins of the Doctor Fate legacy. Levitz drew inspiration from iconic characters such as Spider-Man and Doctor Strange, particularly influenced by his collaborations with Steve Ditko throughout his career. Khalid, like these characters, is portrayed as a young individual burdened with significant responsibilities, embarking on a journey of self-discovery within a world reminiscent of Doctor Strange's mystical realm. Notably, Khalid's character was depicted as a medical student, distinguishing him from traditional college-aged superheroes. Specifically, he was portrayed as approximately twenty-two years old during the 2015 Doctor Fate series.[2][15]

Regarding Khalid's rise to superhero status, Sika A. Dogbovie-Mullins, an author from Mixed-Race Superheroes, expressed the opinion that his mixed-race heritage does not serve as the primary catalyst for his transformation into a superhero. Instead, Khalid's heroic journey is linked to his lineage and the concept of a "divine right of kings," aligning with a Chosen One archetype. Unlike iconic American superheroes like Batman or Superman who fight for truth, justice, and the American way, Khalid is chosen to fight for truth, justice, and the "(ancient) Egyptian ways."[39]

Design

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Khalid Nassour's designs throughout his publication history. The first two images depict the character's distinctive and consistent design exclusive to the character. The remaining images showcase the character's design shared with the Kent Nelson version.

In illustrating Khalid's physical appearance, artist Sonny Liew focused on representing his heritage through physical attributes such as hair, nose shape, and skin tone. Unlike conventional superheroes, Khalid was depicted with a more average physique, diverging from the muscular physiques often associated with superhero characters. Over time, Khalid's appearance in subsequent comic book series within the DC Comics universe began to portray him with a more toned physique.[24][21][40]

As Doctor Fate, the character has been depicted wearing distinctive costumes through his publication history. In the 2015 Doctor Fate series, the character initially wore contemporary clothing comprising a blue hoodie and jeans while donning the Helmet of Fate and Amulet of Thoth. Originally, the intention was for the character to gradually acquire pieces of the original Doctor Fate costume over time within the series. However, due to the positive reception of the contemporary design, editorial decided to maintain the character's modern appearance.[1] During the DC Rebirth initiative, the character underwent a design change during the second story arc of the second Justice League Dark series. The revised design features a dark blue jumpsuit, a combination of a golden or yellow belt and loin cloth, a golden cape secured by the Amulet of Anubis, and golden or white-colored sneakers. This design is notable for incorporating the classic colors associated with Doctor Fate, blending elements of ancient Egyptian aesthetics with contemporary American attire.[17]

While the character's default appearance usually consists of a his attire from the Justice League Dark series, he is occasionally depicted wearing the same outfit associated with modern renditions of Kent Nelson. This alternative attire typically includes a blue jumpsuit, golden gloves, golden boots, and a golden belt. In some instances, the presence of the Amulet of Anubis is accompanied by a Usekh collar, which also holds a golden cape, while in other depictions, the collar and amulet may be absent.[21][24]

Powers, abilities, and resources

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Khalid possesses magical powers that are derived from his royal pharaonic lineage.[35][41] These powers enable him to perform magic through commands and spell-casting, which are influenced by Egyptian traditions as well as the practices of the legendary wizard Merlin. In addition, Khalid has supernatural senses that allow him to perceive souls in the form of a ba and anticipate the impending death of others, complimenting his role as Doctor Fate.[11][17] Under the guidance of Kent and Nabu, Khalid's knowledge of magic was significantly advanced.[18] The character is also immortal.[41]

In addition to his magical powers, Khalid has undergone extensive training as an emergency medical technician and holds a doctorate degree from Weill Cornell Medicine. He graduated with top honors from Brooklyn College, specializing in organic chemistry. Moreover, Khalid has acquired proficiency in hand-to-hand combat.[22][42]

Mystical artifacts and resources

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As Doctor Fate, Khalid possesses powers similar to those of Kent Nelson's incarnation. With the assistance of magical artifacts, Khalid instead wields element-controlling powers[35] and is potentially capable of performing virtually any mystical feat as an incarnation of Doctor Fate.[43] The artifacts also serve a dual purpose, enhancing his magical powers while also serving as protective measures.[44]

Nassour chiefly dons the Helmet of Fate, a powerful magical artifact that bestows him with god-like magical energies and powers. In contrast to other versions, he draws his connections to ancient Egyptian deities (particularly from Thoth) and possesses the ability to control elements as well as drawing magical energy from elemental forces. The helm grants him a host of magical abilities, including healing, flight, intangibility, the projection of energy blasts, and enhances his awareness and senses.[35][1] When the Helmet of Fate is inhabited by the spirit of Hauhet, Nassour gains the ability to see into the future[41] and possesses heightened awareness that enables him to break the fourth wall.[45] Khalid also possesses the Amulet of Anubis, offering protections against psychic, astral-probing, and mind control. It also grants him necromancy, contains a pocket universe, enhance his magical power, and can discharge powerful beams of magical energies.[46]

Nassour also possess various other artifacts. The Staff of Power, an extraordinary artifact gifted to him by Thoth, the Egyptian deity. This staff grants Khalid the ability to control and project potent magical energy. It is powered by Khalid's own blood, a result of his pharaonic lineage. With the staff, Khalid can confront and defeat divine beings.[1][35] The Eternity Book was crafted by the legendary sorcerer Merlin and is known to contain vast reserves of magical energy. In addition to its magical properties, the book serves as a comprehensive record of the history of the DC Universe, chronicling various events, beings, and realms within its pages. Additionally, Khalid also has access to the Tower of Fate, the traditional base of operations for the Doctor Fate lineage. Serving as a nexus for magic on Earth, the Tower of Fate is unique in that it lacks physical doors and can typically only be accessed through magic. Although the tower has been breached on multiple occasions, Khalid eventually establishes formidable wards capable of repelling powerful magic users like Zatanna, alien energies, and overwhelming strength originating from powerful entities such as Kryptonians.[27] The tower also houses a collection of assorted mystical artifacts.[26]

Weaknesses

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While a formidable version of Doctor Fate, Nassour was once stated to be less powerful compared to previous versions before the New 52 reboot prior to his training.[47] His healing powers were also ineffectively divine and ghostly forces[5] and is considered inferior to the Spectre in power as an incarnation of Doctor Fate.[43] As a cost for using the helm to see into the future, Khalid suffers a partial loss of his sight, resulting in impaired vision.[23]

Supporting characters

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In the original Doctor Fate 2015 series features a small cast of characters whom have an influence on Khalid's personal life and his activities as a superhero:

  • Mohammed Nassour - Khalid's Islamic and Egyptian father and former physician turned taxi driver, was born and raised in Egypt before moving to America after marrying his American wife and archaeologist. His father is aware of his endeavors as Doctor Fate, has knowledge of their family history, and supports his son in both his personal and superhero life as he yearns for him to be a physician, an opportunity Mohammed no longer has due to moving to the United States.[1][11]
  • Elizabeth Nassour (née Nelson) - Khalid's mother and Mohammed's wife. Like her uncle, Elizabeth became a well-known archaeologist. While initially unaware, she later learns of her son's double life and supports him.[1][11]
  • Kent Nelson: Khalid's grand uncle, mentor, and the original Doctor Fate. Nelson is also characterized as a strict and stern mentor, encouraging him to fix his own mistakes regardless of how he feels. Overtime, the two develop a deep familial bond.[1]
  • Lords of Order and Egyptian deities: Khalid's connection as Doctor Fate and patronage are facilitated by the deities of Egypt, whom appear to possess some connection with the Lords of Order enough for him to be recognized as an agent. Unlike prior versions, the Egyptian deities hold more precedent over him than others like Nabu.[35]
    • Nabu: The spirit inhabiting the Helm of Fate. Nabu is initially characterized as vague and cryptic in his teaching. Later characterizations in other titles depicts Nabu as a stern and abrasive mentor who is fond of Khalid though their relationship becomes strained for a time until he embraces him once more, ceding control of his power to Khalid unlike the previous Doctor Fate.[1][17]
    • Bastet: The fictional depiction of goddess Bastet, she often also serves as a figure of guidance, having chosen him to bear the mantle of Doctor Fate. While she initially questions her decisions in choosing him, she later comes to accept and deems Khalid worthy.[1] Bastet also protects Khalid's personal life by intervening with her godly influences.[5]
  • Archangels: Khalid is also supported by archangels whom are sometimes disguised as humans, advising both in his personal life and his work as Doctor Fate. The angels work in tandem with the Egyptian pantheon, both angels and deities alike answering to the DC Comics' depiction of Allah, the character known as the Pressence.[1][11]

Outside the Doctor Fate series, Khalid also has a few allies:

  • Kirk Langstom: Kirk was Khalid's partner during in the Justice League Dark, serving as an assistant as he sought to understand magic from a scientist's point-of-view and rehabilitation.[48]
  • Stitch: A non-binary animated ragdoll that is his apprentice and views Khalid as their father. Stitch was also a student within Titans Academy.[21]
  • Salem the Witch Girl: Chronologically the first apprentice of Kent Nelson, she was removed from time but later brought into the modern era. Salem would have a turbulent relationship with Khalid, viewing him as usurper for the Doctor Fate mantle she believed to be hers. Due to her hostility with would place her into the care of the Justice Society within his place on the team until she was ready to reconcile with him.[31]

Love interests

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  • Shaya Halim: Shaya was Khalid's girlfriend and chief love interest in his 2015 Doctor Fate series. A fellow aspiring physician, the pair had plans for a future together upon graduation from medical school.[5]
  • Akila: Khalid's childhood best friend and activist who seeks to encourage him towards it, unaware of his dual life. While Khalid shares feelings for her and Akila expressed interest in him, their relationship remains platonic.[5]
  • Power Girl: In the The New Golden Age storyline, it was mentioned the pair shared a close history in the future, hinting a significant (possibly romantic) connection between the two coming up in the present.[49]

Enemies

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Khalid has several adversaries of his own:

  • Anubis: A fictional depiction of the god of the same name, Anubis was Khalid's first adversary and most significant enemy who sought to elevate his divine station. He targets the Nassour family due to their bloodline and relation to the pharaohs of ancient Egypt, whose status as chosen priests of Atum makes them able to invoke influence over him.[1]
  • The General: An unnamed Egyptian general and necromancer who revived the spirit of Julius Caesar using the dagger that killed him to compel him to do his bidding. Using Caesar and ghostly minions, he maintained power and used the spiritual forces against those whom protested his rule. Eventually, he is defeated by Khalid after he frees Julius from his control.[5]
    • Julius Caesar - The fictional depiction of the Roman emperor of the same name; this version is a powerful spirit due to being declared a deity after his death, such an act empowering him in his afterlife. He comes into conflict with Khalid when his summoner, an unnamed Egyptian General who pilfers artifacts and practices magic, uses him and his powers to summon ancient spirits of fallen soldiers to quell protests. Khalid frees him from the General's control, allowing him to return to the afterlife.[5]
  • Clothorus: An ancient entity capable of controlling the destinies of others through both her powers and her minions, the Dreamspinners. She comes into conflict with Khalid when she targets his childhood best friend, Akila.[11]
  • Xanadoth: A powerful Lord of Chaos and their former leader, she sought Khalid due to being the latest Doctor Fate possessing the Helm of Fate in her quest to drain the powers of the Lords of Order, fellow Lords of Chaos, and the Lords of Eternal Balance to establish her own brand of chaos.[20]

Other versions

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  • In Future State, several years after the events of the Great Wickedness storyline, an older Khalid managed to mend the broken Helmet of Fate and lived through several timelines to learn how to defeat Merlin. He is ultimately found by his teammates disguised as a blind old man. Shortly after being revealed by Etrigan, Merlin's forces arrives to dispatch the Justice League Dark, now a resistance group against his power. With Enchantress and Jason Blood as his lieutenants, Khalid makes a deal to act his oracle but imparts a careful gambit in defeat Etrigan, reminding him of demon's abilities to perceive time differently.[50] The ultimate fate of this future timeline is unknown.
  • In a possible future revealed in the New Golden Age storyline taking place two decades from the Prime Earth, Khalid is one of the few old legacies of the JSA active. The de facto team leader, he is an enemy of the future Salem the Witch Girl, now a Lord of Chaos. Approving of future Huntress's recreating the JSA under rehabilited former enemies of the team, he is killed by Per Degaton. Empowered by Salem's ritual, Degaton seeks to destroy the team across all time While Degaton's efforts is thwarted by his present self, the future version of Khalid is erased due to Helena Wayne's actions in the present time alongside all her teammates and reality.[51][6]

Reception

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As an incarnation of Doctor Fate, the Khalid Nassour character has been well received by critics. Book Riot's Jessica Plumber noted similarities between Khalid and Marvel Comics' Kamala Khan, both of whom represent important additions to the underrepresented demographic and praised the character's design and significance of diverse representation in the comic book industry, commending the creators for addressing the gap.[4] IGN writer Levi Hunt viewed the character as a positive step in establishing diversity within DC Comics and appreciated the incorporation of Egyptian mythology, which deviates from the commonly used Greek and Roman mythological themes prevalent in comics.[7]

Criticisms

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However, Plummer also expressed certain criticisms regarding certain aspects of the character. She believed that the Doctor Fate comic featuring Khalid did not feel innovative or culturally authentic and suggested the need for a Muslim-led writer to bring a more genuine perspective. Additionally, Plummer was critical of the character's storyline in James Tynion IV's run in Justice League Dark, where Khalid's fate involved being trapped within a vase by Nabu. She interpreted this plot development as an unintentional metaphor, considering Khalid, an Egyptian-born character, being reduced to a hieroglyphic confined within an ancient vase.[4] Adrienne Resha, a researcher for Comic Studies Societies, raised similar concerns about the character's portrayal and design in the Justice League Dark. Resha pointed out inconsistencies in how the character was drawn, characterized, and colored, particularly in relation to his age and skin tone. The researcher also noted that Khalid was often sidelined in favor of other characters, including his predecessor Kent Nelson, despite being the only clearly identifiable person of color in the team. Resha also further criticized the character for frequently invoking Egypt's ancient past instead of exploring its modern history.[9]

The character's age also garnered criticism. Ashley Hurt, an author for CBR, expressed the opinion that the character's [college] age diminished the significance of Kent Nelson's struggles as Doctor Fate. Hurt suggested that it would have been preferable for the character to be slightly older and to wear a more traditional Doctor Fate costume to better align with the established narrative.[8] However, it is important to note that the character's age in the comics was intended to be slightly older than college age, thus deviating from Hurt's assessment.[2]

Critical response

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  • CBR included Khalid Nassour in their list of the "10 Most Powerful Golden Age DC Legacy Heroes".[52]
  • Gizmodo featured Khalid Nassour's comic and Young Justice versions in an article highlighting other Muslim heroes.[53]
  • Egyptian Streets featured the Khalid Nassour version of Doctor Fate in a list of Egyptian comic book superheroes.[54]
  • Motivate Media Group's Whats On highlights Khalid Nassour's Doctor Fate in a list of Arab superheroes.[55]

In other media

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Collections

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Title Material collected Publication date ISBN Ref
Doctor Fate Vol. 1: The Blood Price collects Doctor Fate (vol. 4) #1-7, and material from DC Sneak Peek: Doctor Fate #1 October 3, 2017 978-1401261214 [59]
Doctor Fate Vol. 2: Prisoners of the Past collects Doctor Fate (vol. 4) #8-12 June 26, 2018 978-1401264925 [60]
Doctor Fate Vol. 3: Fateful Threads collects Doctor Fate (vol. 4) #13-18 June 26, 2018 978-1401272418 [61]

See also

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References

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  1. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q Levitz, Paul (2016). Blood price. Sonny Liew, Lee Loughridge, Nick Napolitano, Steve Wands. Burbank, CA. ISBN 978-1-4012-6121-4. OCLC 933580456.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link)
  2. ^ a b c d e "Levitz Channels Ditko for June's New, Unusual Dr. Fate". Newsarama. 2015-04-16. Archived from the original on 2016-03-04. Retrieved 2015-05-04.
  3. ^ Jaffe, Alex (April 27, 2020). "10 Muslim DC Heroes to Commemorate Ramadan". Archived from the original on September 22, 2021. Retrieved January 13, 2024.
  4. ^ a b c d Plummer, Jessica (19 March 2020). "Give This Hero a Comic Book: Khalid Nassour (Doctor Fate)". Book Riot. Retrieved 3 April 2020.
  5. ^ a b c d e f g h i Levitz, Paul (2016). Prisoners of the past. Sonny Liew, Ibrahim Moustafa, Lee Loughridge, Saida Temofonte. Burbank, CA. ISBN 978-1-4012-6492-5. OCLC 945719105.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link)
  6. ^ a b c d Johns, Geoff (2022). The New Golden Age #1. DC Comics.
  7. ^ a b Hunt, Levi (2015-06-18). "Dr. Fate #1 Review". IGN.
  8. ^ a b Land, Ashley (August 14, 2023). "These DC Legacy Heroes Are Really Confusing — Why?". CBR.
  9. ^ a b Resha, Adrienne. "Thoth, Justice, and the American Way: Egyptian Myth, Modern Egypt, and Superhero Comics". THE INTERNATIONAL COMIC ARTS FORUM.
  10. ^ "GCD :: Series :: Doctor Fate". Comics.org. 2015-08-01. Retrieved 2017-02-20.
  11. ^ a b c d e f g Levitz, Paul (2017). Doctor Fate. Volume 3, Fateful threads. Sonny Liew, Brendan McCarthy, Ibrahim Moustafa, Inaki Miranda, Breno Tamura, Lee Loughridge. Burbank, CA. ISBN 978-1-4012-7241-8. OCLC 956957419.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link)
  12. ^ Sharp, Kevin (2018-06-11). "James Tynion IV Reveals New Justice League Dark Characters And Villain". DC Comics News. Retrieved 2022-02-05.
  13. ^ Johnston, Rich (2020-12-18). "Justice League Dark Series Cancelled, Repurposed As Back-Up Strip". Bleeding Cool News And Rumors. Retrieved 2022-02-05.
  14. ^ a b Stone, Sam (2022-11-04). "Geoff Johns Breaks Down Restoring & Expanding DC's Golden Age Legacy". CBR. Retrieved 2022-11-09.
  15. ^ a b "Paul Levitz Talks Diversity, Surreality & Mythology in "Doctor Fate"". CBR. 2015-06-16. Retrieved 2022-05-02.
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  17. ^ a b c d e Tynion, James IV (2020). Justice League Dark. Vol. 3, The witching war. Alvaro Martinez, Fernando Blanco, Javi Fernandez, Raul Fernandez, Brad Anderson, John Kalisz. Burbank, CA. ISBN 978-1-77950-034-2. OCLC 1133663808.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link)
  18. ^ a b c V, Ram (2021). A costly trick of magic. James, IV Tynion, Amancay Nahuelpan, Kyle Hotz, Álvaro Martínez Bueno, Raul Fernandez, June Chung. Burbank, CA. ISBN 978-1-77950-714-3. OCLC 1198086664.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link)
  19. ^ a b c Bendis, Brian Michael (2022). Justice League #72-74 "Leagues of Chaos Part 1-3". DC Comics.
  20. ^ a b c d Bendis, Brian Michael (2021). Superman: Mythological. Ivan Reis, Kevin Maguire, John Timms, Danny Miki, Joe Prado, Oclair Albert. Burbank, CA. ISBN 978-1-77950-572-9. OCLC 1238130236.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link)
  21. ^ a b c d Sheridan, Tim (2022). X marks the spot. Robbie Thompson, Rafa Sandoval, Jordi Tarragona, Steve Lieber, Alejandro Sánchez, Dave Stewart. Burbank, CA. ISBN 978-1-77951-281-9. OCLC 1273424253.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link)
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  39. ^ Mixed-race superheroes. Sika A. Dagbovie-Mullins, Eric L. Berlatsky. New Brunswick. 2021. ISBN 978-1-9788-1459-2. OCLC 1164822325.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link) CS1 maint: others (link)
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  42. ^ Tynion, James IV (2019). Justice League Dark. Volume 1, issue 1-3, 5-6, The last age of magic. Alvaro Martinez, Daniel Sampere, Raul Fernandez, Juan Albarran, Brad Anderson, Adriano Lucas. [United States]. ISBN 978-1-4012-8812-9. OCLC 1158974787.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link)
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  44. ^ Lotowycz, R. (2021). The DC Book of Lists: A Multiverse of Legacies, Histories, and Hierarchies. Running Press Adult.
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  50. ^ Altbacker, E. J. (2021). Future state: Justice League. Ryan Cady, Josie Campbell, Will Conrad, Sami Basri, Dale Eaglesham, Daniel Henriques. Burbank, CA. ISBN 978-1-77951-065-5. OCLC 1240265473.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link)
  51. ^ Justice Society of America (vol. 4) #2. DC Comics.
  52. ^ Harth, David (October 3, 2022). "10 Most Powerful Golden Age DC Legacy Heroes". CBR.
  53. ^ Salih, Swara (July 25, 2022). "If You Loved Ms. Marvel, Check Out These Muslim and South Asian Heroes". Gizmodo.
  54. ^ Aref, Heidi (September 13, 2023). "Comic Book Superheroes: Celebrating Three Egyptian Characters and Creators". Egyptian Streets. Retrieved September 20, 2023.
  55. ^ Fatimah, Manaal (2024-06-28). "The Arabs and the business of avenging: Who are our Middle Eastern superheroes?". What's On. Retrieved 2024-07-11.
  56. ^ "Khalid Nassour Voice - Young Justice (TV Show)". Behind The Voice Actors. Retrieved April 4, 2024. A green check mark indicates that a role has been confirmed using a screenshot (or collage of screenshots) of a title's list of voice actors and their respective characters found in its opening and/or closing credits and/or other reliable sources of information.
  57. ^ Weisman, Greg (December 7, 2021). "Greg Weisman on Twitter: "No. Thirteen is mostly casting in Latin. Khalid uses a combination of Latin, Classic Greek and Arabic" – via Twitter.
  58. ^ Matadeen, Renaldo (January 5, 2022). "Young Justice: Phantoms Crowned a New Doctor Fate - With Dark Consequences". CBR. Retrieved April 4, 2024.
  59. ^ Doctor Fate Vol. 1: The Blood Price. 2017.
  60. ^ Doctor Fate Vol. 2: Prisoners of the Past. 2018.
  61. ^ Doctor Fate Vol. 3: Fateful Threads. 2018.
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