Episode 54: The Death of a Hero (Strange Tales #108) -- May 1963

In this episode:

Mike and Ed discuss the death of Johnny Storm, the Human Torch. What does it mean when a superhero dies? Does it matter that Storm was just a teenager? The hosts discuss how everything has seemed like fun and games until the deadly seriousness of fighting crime brings everything into focus.

In this issue:

Johnny Storm, the Human Torch, breaks up a robbery and helps put the criminals behind bars yet again. The criminal underworld is frustrated by the Torch’s heroic efforts. Just when they are about to give up hope on their morality free life, a strange man with the ability to bring his paintings to life shows up and offers his services. The Painter then battles the Torch with his strange and powerful paintings-come-to-life and seemingly kills him. The world mourns the young hero’s passing. Then, just when the Painter and his gang have let their guard down, the Torch re-appears, having faked his death. He destroys the Painter’s magic paints and brings the criminals to justice.

Assumed before the next episode:

The world mourns the passing of Johnny Storm, the Human Torch.

This episode takes place:

After the “death” of the Human Torch has been announced.