Summary
- Omni-Man was originally named Supra-Man, but Image Comics had to change the name due to concerns about infringing on DC Comics' Superman trademark.
- Invincible was originally codenamed Bulletproof, but Image Comics asked for a name change to avoid confusion with another comic. The name was then given to another character, Zandale Randolph.
- The original codenames for Omni-Man and Invincible provided clues to their true natures, with 'Supra-Man' hinting at Omni-Man's disdain for humanity.
While the Viltrumite warrior Omni-Man is now an icon following Invincible's amazing success, the dark take on Superman actually started out with a different codename and design. However, the initial concept for what would become Omni-Man had to be changed due to fears of infringing on DC Comics' most famous trademark.
Recently, Image Comics released Invincible Undeluxe (from Robert Kirkman and Corey Walker) - a black and white version of the original series' first issue, including creator notes and concept art. A play on the ongoing Walking Dead Deluxe - which adds color to the original black and white horror comic courtesy of Dave McCaig - Invincible Undeluxe has a lot to offer fans, including the original names and designs of Invincible and Omni-Man.
Alongside some concept art sketches, Kirkman explains that Omni-Man was originally named 'Supra-Man' with the nickname 'the Man of Stuff.' The character's codename, nickname and costume are clearly meant to evoke DC's Man of Steel, aka Superman. Sadly, the comparison was a little too direct. Kirkman notes:
Image made us change it, fearing that DC might not enjoy us using a name that when pronounced out loud is almost impossible to distinguish from their beloved trademark character.
Omni-Man Was Originally Called Supra-Man
Image Changed His Codename, Fearing Legal Issues with DC's Superman
While the reference to Superman is still clear with the Omni-Man name, one benefit of the original codename was lost in the change. In its earliest and most stunning twist, Invincible reveals that rather than being a benevolent protector, Omni-Man is actually an alien invader who plans to conquer Earth for his home planet, the fascistic Viltrum. Omni-Man goes on to murder many of Earth's superheroes, and becomes a major antagonist to his son Mark Grayson, aka Invincible. With 'Supra' meaning 'above/beyond,' his original codename was a veiled clue to his true nature - someone who sees himself as above humanity, and inherently superior to the entire species (who he describes as household pets when compared to Viltrumites.)
Invincible Also Began Life with a Different Codename
Mark Grayson's Original Codename Went to Another Hero
The issue also reveals that Invincible himself was originally imagined with the codename 'Bulletproof.' Image also asked that this name be changed, as it was also publishing Bulletproof Monk and didn't want any confusion. Unlike 'Supra-Man,' the name wasn't forgotten, and was instead given to Zandale Randolph, who eventually ended up wearing the Invincible costume while Mark was out of action - a bizarre echo of the original change where Bulletproof again 'became' Invincible.
In Invincible Undeluxe, Kirkman says "Thank God for small miracles," acknowledging that the franchise has found immense success with his second choice of codenames for its most iconic characters. However, it's fascinating for fans to see how Invincible and Omni-Man started life - and to know that Nolan's dark side was originally meant to be foreshadowed by a pitch-perfect clue.
Invincible #1 is free to read from Image Comics here.
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December 31, 2023 at 10:30PM
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Omni-Man's Original Codename Was a Huge Clue to Invincible's Big Twist (But Also a Legal Nightmare) - Screen Rant
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