Canadian superhero Captain Canuck is having a comeback, and we have Trump to thank

U.S. President Donald Trump’s threats of annexation and tariffs have sparked a newfound interest in a classic Canadian superhero from the 1970s: Captain Canuck. Created by artist Richard Comely, Captain Canuck is a government agent with superhuman strength who defends Canada’s sovereignty.

Comely, now 74, co-created Captain Canuck at a time when he felt Canadians needed their own iconic figure, similar to Captain America in the United States. The character, also known as Tom Evans, is a Mountie who gained his powers after an encounter with aliens. Sporting a red and white outfit adorned with maple leaves, Captain Canuck quickly became a symbol of independence for many Canadians.

Since its debut in 1975, over four million Captain Canuck-themed comic books, books, and graphic novels have been printed worldwide. Comely’s original storyline envisioned Canada as a global power facing various challenges from groups seeking to destabilize and take over the country, although never from the United States.

In recent years, Captain Canuck has experienced a resurgence in popularity, with Comely creating new storylines that reflect current political tensions. In the 50th anniversary issue, Captain Canuck is depicted wagging his finger at President Trump, who has expressed desires for Canada to become a U.S. state. This symbolic gesture has resonated with many Canadians who feel a renewed sense of unity and opposition to such proposals.

Despite a hiatus in the 90s, Captain Canuck made a comeback in 2012 when Comely entered into an exclusive licensing agreement with Chapterhouse Comics. The character has since expanded into an animated web series and a range of merchandise, further solidifying his place in Canadian pop culture.

Comely has noted an increased interest in Captain Canuck from Canadian companies due to the current political climate, crediting President Trump for a resurgence in the character’s popularity. As Canadians look to Captain Canuck as a symbol of national pride and independence, the superhero continues to stand as a beacon of hope and strength in uncertain times.