Thing
Last Updated on: November 15th, 2024
Who is Thing?
The Thing, also known as Benjamin “Ben” Grimm, is one of the most iconic and enduring characters in the Marvel Universe. Created by writer Stan Lee and artist Jack Kirby, the Thing first appeared in “Fantastic Four” #1 in 1961. As a founding member of the Fantastic Four, Ben’s immense strength, rocky appearance, and gruff yet lovable personality have made him a beloved figure in the world of superheroes.
Origins and Powers
Ben Grimm was born into a poor Jewish family on the Lower East Side of New York City. Despite the hardships of his early life, Ben excelled in school and sports, eventually earning a scholarship to Empire State University. There, he befriended the brilliant Reed Richards, who would later become Mr. Fantastic. Ben promised Reed that he would pilot his experimental spacecraft once it was ready.
Years later, Ben kept his promise and joined Reed, Susan Storm, and her brother Johnny on the ill-fated space mission. During their journey, the group was bombarded by cosmic rays, which granted them extraordinary powers. Ben’s body was transformed into a rocky, orange-hued form, giving him superhuman strength, durability, and endurance. Though initially distraught by his monstrous appearance, Ben embraced his new identity as the Thing, becoming a crucial member of the Fantastic Four.
The Thing’s powers include immense strength, allowing him to lift and throw heavy objects and engage in powerful hand-to-hand combat. His rocky exterior makes him highly resistant to physical damage, extreme temperatures, and various forms of energy attacks. Despite his fearsome appearance, Ben retains his keen intellect, mechanical skills, and sharp wit.
Major Story Arcs and Teams
The Thing has been central to many significant story arcs within the Fantastic Four series and beyond. Some of his notable storylines include:
- “The Coming of Galactus”: This classic storyline introduces the world-devouring Galactus and his herald, the Silver Surfer. The Thing plays a crucial role in defending Earth alongside his teammates, showcasing his bravery and strength.
- “This Man… This Monster!”: In one of the most poignant stories in Fantastic Four history, Ben’s humanity and inner turmoil are explored when a scientist temporarily steals his powers. The storyline delves into Ben’s struggle with his appearance and his longing for normalcy.
- “Secret Wars”: During the first Secret Wars event, the Thing is transported to Battleworld along with other heroes and villains. This storyline explores Ben’s interactions with other Marvel characters and his brief ability to revert to his human form, highlighting his internal conflict.
- “The Trial of Reed Richards”: In this arc, Ben stands by Reed during his trial for saving the life of Galactus, emphasizing his loyalty and strong sense of justice. The storyline showcases the deep bond between the members of the Fantastic Four.
- “The New Fantastic Four”: At various times, Ben has joined other superhero teams, including the Avengers and the Guardians of the Galaxy. These team-ups highlight his versatility and his ability to work well with other heroes, even outside the core Fantastic Four group.
Iconic Appearances in Media
The Thing has appeared in various animated series, films, and video games, solidifying his status as a central figure in the Marvel Universe. In live-action films, Ben Grimm was portrayed by Michael Chiklis in “Fantastic Four” (2005) and its sequel “Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer” (2007), directed by Tim Story. Chiklis’s portrayal captured Ben’s gruff exterior and his deep loyalty to his friends.
In the 2015 reboot “Fantastic Four,” directed by Josh Trank, Jamie Bell portrayed Ben Grimm, bringing a new dynamic to the character and highlighting his transformation and struggle with his new form.
In animated series, the Thing has been a recurring character in “Fantastic Four: The Animated Series” (1994), “Fantastic Four: World’s Greatest Heroes” (2006), and various other Marvel animated projects. His presence in video games, including the “LEGO Marvel Super Heroes” series and “Marvel: Ultimate Alliance,” further showcases his popularity and dynamic powers.
Influence and Legacy
The Thing’s influence as a character extends beyond his physical strength and heroic deeds. He represents themes of resilience, loyalty, and the struggle to accept oneself. Ben’s journey from a tough street kid to a superhero who embraces his unique appearance highlights his strength of character and his deep sense of responsibility.
Ben’s iconic appearance, with his rocky orange skin and blue eyes, is instantly recognizable. His catchphrases, such as “It’s clobberin’ time!” and his Bronx accent, add to his charm and make him a standout character in any storyline.
The Thing’s enduring appeal lies in his complexity and the powerful themes he represents. As a character who has faced immense personal challenges and evolved into a formidable hero, he embodies strength, resilience, and the importance of family and friendship. Whether battling alongside the Fantastic Four, exploring his relationships with other heroes, or engaging in solo adventures, Ben Grimm’s legacy as one of Marvel’s most beloved and multifaceted characters is secure, thanks to his compelling storylines, memorable media portrayals, and the profound impact he has had on fans around the world.
The Collection:
Here is the Internet’s largest collection of Thing related movies, TV shows, toys and other products. As always, new pieces are added to this collection regularly.
Movie Appearances
Avengers: Secret Wars
Avengers: Doomsday
The Fantastic Four: First Steps
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