Meanwhile, elsewhere in the multiverse...

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art: Fletcher Hanks

His creations include Stardust the Super Wizard, Tabu the Wizard of the Jungle, Big Red McLane, and Fantomah—one of the first female superheroes, predating Wonder Woman. In all he created 51 stories.

Hanks had four children. Family members described him as abusive and alcoholic. He made money painting murals for the wealthy, and spent the money on alcohol for himself and his friends. His son Fletcher Jr. worked odd jobs to support the family. In 1930, he found his earnings missing, along with his father. Fletcher Jr. said his mother responded, “It's a small price to pay to be rid of the bum.”

Hanks left the comic book industry in 1941. The reason is still unknown. His body was found on a park bench in Manhattan in 1976, having frozen to death. He died penniless.

A cult following developed around Hanks' work. His stories and art have been reprinted in the magazine Raw and in two books by Fantagraphics: I Shall Destroy All the Civilized Planets! (2007) and You Shall Die by Your Own Evil Creation! (2009).