Who Is Thunderbolt Ross? Origin, Powers and Key Facts

Thunderbolt Ross is a Marvel comic book character, the alter ego of Thaddeus E. Ross, with over 1,674 comic issue appearances. Thaddeus "Thunderbolt" Ross is former U.S. military general. He is father of Bruce Banner's love Betty Ross and was archenemy of the Incredible Hulk. Ross made a deal with villains to be transformed into a Hulk himself. As the ruthless and cunning Red Hulk, he attempted to destroy his nemesis and take control of the country before seeking redemption as an Avenger.

Who is Thunderbolt Ross?

Origin Ross in Uniform Born and raised in a military family, the young Thaddeus Ross spent much of his early life planning to join the Army , as had his father and his grandfather before him. However, the death of a close friend caused Ross to choose the Air Force instead. He attended West Point and came top of his class, and served bravely in several battles. He met and married Karen Lee , the daughter of his then-commanding officer. The couple had one daughter, Betty , and Ross used his influence to give the child a stable upbringing. However, Karen died of cancer when Betty was young teen, which caused Ross to grow distant with her. He rose quickly through the ranks, eventually obtaining the rank of general. He was assigned to command Desert Base, New Mexico , where Dr Bruce Banner's gamma ray experiments were carried out.

Key facts

Thunderbolt Ross is of radiation origin and first appeared in "The Coming of the Hulk". The character is published by Marvel. With 1,674 recorded issue appearances, Thunderbolt Ross ranks among the most featured characters in comics.