The 15 Best Civilians In DC Comics, Ranked

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For a comic, even a superhero comic, to feel grounded, it must be full of heroes, villains, and perhaps most importantly – civilians. When it comes to DC Comics, there are dozens, if not hundreds, of notable and memorable civilians. In the world of superheroes, civilians are pretty much any character who doesn’t have superpowers.

Civilians in superhero comics can help make a world feel vibrant and alive. They create tension and drama, providing human faces to the stakes superheroes face every day. Given the long history of DC Comics, many famous civilian characters have played around with superhero mantles due to one continuity or another. However, on the whole, they’re content to stick to the lives they already have.

15

Terry Berg

Kyle Rayner’s Artistic Assistant

Terry Berg is an artist and cartoonist

First appeared in Green Lantern Vol 3 #129 (2000)

Terrence “Terry” Berg has been with DC Comics for ages and is a long-standing ally to Kyle Rayner. When Terry first entered the scene, he was introduced as Kyle’s new assistant for Feast magazine. Terry was one of those characters that was easy to like right from the start. He was calm, outgoing, and passionate about art. However, there’s no denying that Terry had a few complications in his life, such as an intolerant high school.

Over the years, Terry went from being Kyle Rayner’s assistant to his friend. However, it’s important to note that Terry probably still has no idea about Kyle’s life as a Green Lantern. That said, Terry’s last appearance showed him holding a Green Lantern ring, so it’s possible he’ll appear as a non-civilian in the future.

14

Toby Raynes

Toby Raynes Is a Reporter for the Metropolis Star

First appeared in Superman Vol. 2 #9 (1987)

Toby Raynes was in a long-term relationship with Maggie Sawyer

Toby Raynes is one of many iconic reporters from the world of DC Comics. Readers may notice her last name is occasionally spelled Raines and that the spelling seems to vary depending on the continuity. Toby primarily worked for the Metropolis Star, which often put her in a position to cover superhero stories involving the Man of Steel. Like many DC civilian characters, Toby always had a good excuse to be in dangerous situations when common sense said they should be running the other way.

Toby’s work at Metropolis Star put her in a position to meet her long-time girlfriend, Maggie Sawyer. The two met while Maggie worked for the Metropolis Police Department’s Special Crimes Unit. Unfortunately, their relationship withered after Maggie transferred to a new position in a different city.

13

Maggie Sawyer

Maggie Sawyer Is a Police Officer with a Long Career

First appeared in Superman Vol. 2 #4 (1987)

Created by John Byrne

Margaret “Maggie” Sawyer is one the most famous civilian characters in DC Comics. While she’s remained a police officer for her entire career, she created a unique path for herself. Maggie began with the Special Crimes Unit for Metropolis PD, where she was partnered with Dan Turpin. During this time, she got to know Superman and even provided the Man of Steel with occasional support.

Years later, Maggie receivds an offer from Gotham to run the Major Crimes Unit of the Gotham City Police Department. It was a position she couldn’t turn down, though the distance eventually ended her relationship with her girlfriend, Toby. At Gotham, Maggie continued to solve crimes and assist heroes, including Batwoman, aka Kate Kane.

12

Iris West

Iris West Is a Reporter for Central City and Barry Allen’s Fiancée

First appeared in Showcase #4 (1956)

Created by Robert Kanigher and Carmine Infantino

Iris West is a famous reporter for Central City and is also Barry Allen’s fiancee. Not only is Iris engaged to a hero, but she has deep connections throughout the DC Universe, with dozens of relatives that include siblings and even children in some continuities. Iris began her reporting career with a brief stint at the Gotham Gazette before landing a more permanent position with Central City.

It was during Iris’ time at the Gotham Gazette that she first met Barry Allen, but it was far from her last encounter with the hero. While the nature of their relationship has changed across different continuities, she’s consistently been an important part of the Flash universe. Iris may be a civilian, but she was trained by The Flash and has strong hand-to-hand combat skills.

11

Catherine Cobert

Catherine Cobert Is a United Nations Liaison for Justice League Europe

First appeared in Justice League International #8 (1987)

Created by Keith Giffen, J.M. DeMatteis, and Kevin Maguire

Everybody needs a character who’s willing to step in and take charge. Take Catherine Cobert; she’s a DC civilian with immense confidence and patience. Her time in DC is split between the comics and the Young Justice animated series. Her career began as a liaison between the United Nations and Justice League Europe, where she handled the legal problems surrounding superheroes.

In Young Justice, Catherine Cobert handles public affairs, including addressing the UN General Assembly and holding press conferences for the League. No matter the situation, Catherine Cobert is capable of stepping in and helping to smooth things over, at least with the public. In addition to being a talented public speaker, Catherine is a decent fighter, knowing martial arts and fencing.

10

Etta Candy

Etta Candy Is a Friend of Wonder Woman and a Talented Member of A.R.G.U.S.

Affiliated with Checkmate, U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, and A.R.G.U.S.

First appeared in Sensation Comics #2 (1942)

Etta Candy is a force to be reckoned with, and since her introduction, she’s worked hard to fight for the side of good. She has served in the US Armed Forces and joined A.R.G.U.S., and one of her strongest allies is the famous Wonder Woman. Etta has been around since Steve Trevor returned from his time with the Amazons and has a long and complicated history with other DC characters.

In addition to her friendship with Wonder Woman, Etta was close with Barbara Minerva before she transformed into Cheetah. She has stood by Wonder Woman’s side during many major events, including Godwatch. Etta is a capable character who is skilled in hand-to-hand combat, has excellent aim, and is a strong leader.

9

Felicity Smoak

Felicity Smoak Is the Best Computer Hacker Around

First appeared in The Fury of Firestorm #23 (1984)

Created by Gerry Conway and Rafael Kayanan

Felicity Smoak is a genius with computers and a well-known hacker. Even non-comic readers are likely to be familiar with Felicity since she was a major character on the CW’s Arrow series. In the comics, Felicity was originally hired to hack into Green Arrow’s tech and bring him down, but she wound up swapping sides and joining his team.

Whether she’s in comics or on TV screens, Felicity is brilliant with computers and all types of technology. She attended MIT and has worked at software companies and as a hacker-for-hire. Felicity is sometimes known by the alias Overwatch, which describes the way she uses her technical knowledge to watch over the people of Star City.

8

Max Gibson

Max Gibson Computer and Gadget Genius in Futuristic Gotham

First appeared in the animated series Batman Beyond

Created by Bruce Timm and Paul Dini

Maxine “Max” Gibson is a civilian from a futuristic version of Gotham City. She lives in a world where the famous Batman has retired, but the echoes of his enemies are still going strong. Villains such as the Jokerz run wild, eventually leading her best friend, Terry McGinnis, to take on the mantle of Batman. Obviously, this new version of Batman needs allies, especially those who know their way around technology.

Max Gibson is a genius who knows her way around computers. She’s also incredibly bright and capable of seeing through the common superhero lies. As such, she discovers Terry’s truth pretty early on and insists on helping him. Max’s adventures from Batman Beyond continue in the comic version, though she appears less often over time before eventually disappearing altogether.

7

Steve Trevor

Steve Trevor Is a Soldier With a Long History and Ties to Wonder Woman

First appeared in All Star Comics #8 (1941)

Created by William Moulton Marston and H. G. Peter

Steve Trevor is a character famous for his connection to Wonder Woman. His first introduction brought him to the shores of Themyscira, where he met Diana. As a lone survivor, he was badly wounded and in need of help. His appearance on the island gave Diana her first introduction to the world of humans. It also started a romance for the ages and countless adventures.

Steve Trevor is a former member of Team 7, a US Navy SEAL, and now a member of A.R.G.U.S. He’s also worked with dozens of other organizations over the years, as his story has changed from time to time. While Steve may not have superpowers, he’s still a hero who always fights for what is right.

6

Martha Kent

Ma Kent Is Clark Kent’s Adoptive Mother

First appeared in Superman #1 (1939)

Created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster

Martha Kent is Clark Kent’s adoptive mother. She and her husband, Jonathan, live in a small town called Smallville, located in Kansas. One day, their lives changed forever when a small rocket crashed into their crops, revealing a young alien in need of a home. Readers know the infant was Kal-El, but at the time, they decided to name him Clark.

Since her debut in Superman #1, Martha has played an essential role in Clark’s life. She’s been there for the hero through thick and thin. There have been several versions of Martha over the years, including alternate universes, though some continuities depict Ma Kent as no longer being around. Martha is a kind and caring soul who would do anything for her son.

5

Jonathan Kent

Pa Kent Is Clark Kent’s Adoptive Father

First appeared in Superman #1 (1939)

Created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster

Jonathan Kent is the other half of Clark’s adoptive parents. Much like his wife, Jonathan happily lived on a small farm before finding and adopting Clark as an infant. Jonathan is more commonly known as Pa Kent. He has been through a lot over the years. Jonathan is a WWII veteran who was listed as missing in action for years. He would eventually return home and court the love of his life, Martha.

Naturally, Jonathan Kent’s story has changed slightly over the years due to various reboots, retcons, and alternate universes. Likewise, Jonathan Kent hasn’t always had the best luck, as he has canonically died more than once. One of the most tragic deaths occurred in Action Comics #870, where Jonathan managed to save his wife before succumbing to a heart attack.

4

Lucius Fox

Lucius Fox Is the Mind Behind Many of Batman’s Gadgets

First appeared in Batman #307(1979)

Created by Len Wein and John Calnan

Lucious Fox is arguably one of the more talented minds in DC comics. He doesn’t have a superpowered genius, but he is business-smart and tech-savvy. As such, Lucius Fox is best known for providing Bruce Wayne with gadgets and tech. Naturally, his relationship with Bruce Wayne changes with the times, especially as Lucius is now CEO of Wayne Enterprises.

There’s no denying that Lucius Fox is a clever and resourceful fellow.He’s transcended the media, appearing in comics and movies alike, as is befitting the ethical yet supportive character. In many ways, he knows where to draw the line in the sand, even as it pertains to supporting vigilantes. In addition to providing great tech and resources to the World’s Greatest Detective, Lucius Fox is an excellent sounding board, as he is emotionally intelligent beyond his years.

3

Lois Lane

Lois Land Is a Pulitzer Prize Winner Reporter for the Daily Planet

First appeared in Action Comics #1 (1938)

Created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster

Lois Lane is a DC civilian who almost needs no introduction. She’s been around for decades, first as a dedicated journalist and later as the partner to Clark Kent. No matter the role, Lois Lane is unwavering. Lois Lane first entered the scene working for Metropolis’ Daily Planet and has since earned herself a reputation, both in and out of the comics, for her commitment to journalism.

Her dedication and writing acumen make Lois Lane a world-celebrated journalist with a Pulitzer Prize. Since her introduction, Lois has gone through several changes, some bigger than others. Depending on the timeline or universe, Lois Lane is either a superhero, a mother, or a political activist. No matter the universe she lives in, Lois always strives to make a lasting change.

2

James (Jim) Gordon

Jim Gordon Is Gotham City Police Department’s Commissioner

First appeared in Detective Comics #27 (1939)

Father of Barbara and James Gordon Jr.

James Gordon, aka Jim or Commissioner Gordon, is famous for his presence in Gotham City. He’s probably best known for his time as Gotham City’s Police Commissioner, but he has had several roles over the years. He’s also the father of Barbara Gordon, a vigilante in her own right. Commissioner Gorden has left an indelible mark on Gotham City, as he’s responsible for setting up and lighting the Bat-Signal.

Commissioner Gordon is another DC character who exists in several mediums, including comics, video games, and movies. He’s a constant presence in Batman’s world and has personally been involved in some of the most memorable storylines, including The Killing Joke. He is a trusted ally of the Bat Family and is unwavering in his commitment to the people of Gotham.

1

Alfred Pennyworth

Alfred Pennyworth Is Bruce Wayne’s Butler, Confident, and Most Loyal Ally

First appeared in Batman #16 (1943)

Killed by Bane in Batman Vol. 3 #77 (2019)

Alfred Pennyworth may be a civilian compared to the superheroes of DC Comics, but he’s a hero by any other definition. He is usually portrayed as Bruce Wayne’s butler, but their relationship goes much deeper than that. He is Bruce’s confidant and father figure. He raised Bruce Wayne as best he could and stepped in to take the role of grandfather to all the children Bruce adopted.

Before raising Bruce Wayne, Alfred worked as a British Intelligence officer, which gave him unique insight into supporting Bruce’s vigilante work. As such, he’s been called upon for backup, guidance, and the occasional medical support. Alfred hasn’t been a part of mainline Batman comics since his tragic death at the hands of Bane, but many fans are clamoring for him to make a comeback. Even though he’s not around, Alfred remains one of the best Batman characters and the most iconic civilian in the DC Universe.

“}]] Over the years, DC Comics has created thousands of characters, not the least of which are the civilians who ground the universe and make it real.  Read More