Who Is Ming The Merciless? Origin, Powers and Key Facts

Ming The Merciless is a King Features Syndicate comic book character, the alter ego of Ming, with over 239 comic issue appearances. Ming is the Emperor of the Planet Mongo, and the main antagonist in the series Flash Gordon. He is the archenemy of Flash Gordon, and also is in love with Dale Arden, intending to make her his bride.

Who is Ming The Merciless?

Origin When Flash Gordon and his friends land on the planet Mongo , they find it ruled by the evil Emperor Ming, a tyrant who quickly becomes his arch-enemy for many years. His hatred for Flash Gordon is only matched by his desire to rule the Universe, on the course of using his Machiavellian plot such as releasing the Purple Death on Earth as spite for Flash Gordon. Creation Published by King Features Syndicate , Ming the Merciless was created by Alex Raymond . Powers and Abilities Ming is possesses an incredible intellect, which he uses for evil purposes. Out-smarting Flash Gordon and setting traps up for him, devising vile schemes, and various other intentions. He is also able to use magic to aid in his plans, and appears to have technology that is fairly advanced. Other Media Charles Middleton as Emperor Ming Universal Pictures released three Flash Gordon cliffhanger serials in the 1930's and 40's and Charles Middleton played Emperor Ming in all three films. This writer has over 100 cliffhanger serials in his private collection and in his opinion no serial actor ever played a better villain than Charles Middleton did when he was Emperor Ming.

Key facts

Ming The Merciless is of alien origin. The character is published by King Features Syndicate. With 239 recorded issue appearances, Ming The Merciless ranks among the most featured characters in comics.