One of the most intriguing characters DC has given us is Human Target. First appeared in action comics #419 in December 1972 as Christopher Chance, the peculiar character who had many live appearances, now has a Black Label One-Shot comic.
Human Target has been in some of the most amazing stories protecting heroes and villains by impersonating them. He impersonated kings, criminals, politicians, and even billionaire playboys like our very own Bruce Wayne.
But what made Chance the passionate imitator and fierce protector he is today? Let’s explore its roots and uncover the mystery.
The Origin Story of Human Target
Christopher Chance’s story began when he was little. He was walking with his father in the neighborhood when a mysterious man tried to shoot him. Christopher tried to protect his father by jumping into the path, but was brushed aside.
The moron was a professional killer, Dancer, sent by a local loan shark, Amos Sharkey, who wanted to kill Christopher’s father because of constant late payments. He chose to kill him to make an example of him.
As Christopher’s father lay in his arms dying, he told Christopher to be the man he never could be. Christopher then swore not to let this happen to anyone else. Over time, he became fearless. He became proficient in martial arts and weapons and honed his investigative skills.
He also became exceptionally good at impersonating people. He made tools and equipment that allowed him to look like anyone, and he learned the arts of mimicry, acting, disguise, and muscle memory to further aid him in his activities.
He got so used to being another person that he forgot to be himself. In most continuities, Human Target cannot form personal relationships because it is difficult for him to know whether the sentiment is genuine or a side effect of his impersonations.
Our hero used his special talents to save lives by impersonating influential figures. He did not fear death and could face it every day. He even impersonated Bruce Wayne to make him and Batman look like different entities, to dispel Vicki Vale’s justified doubt.
If you don’t read The Human Target, we’d love to hear your excuse…because we can guarantee it isn’t a good one. https://t.co/12VR6gFmBv
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A little disturbing and much more interesting was the origin story of our own human target. While you patiently wait to check out his new Black Label One-Shot comic, we recommend giving action comics #422 a read, so you can check out its origin story before getting into the new stuff.