Who Is Zatara? Origin, Powers and Key Facts

Zatara is a DC Comics comic book character, the alter ego of Giovanni Zatara, with over 473 comic issue appearances. Giovanni "John" Zatara was an Italian illusionist with powerful magic cast by uttering the effect backwards, first appearing in Action Comics #1. He is also the father of renowned magician and Justice League member Zatanna. He was killed during a botched séance involving John Constantine.

Who is Zatara?

Origin Spell Casting John Zatara was an accomplished stage illusionist. That could be considered his greatest illusion, for he was actually Homo Magi. This powerful race of magic users include such names as Leonardo Da Vinci and Nostradamus, to whom he is related. His profession as illusionist was handed down to him by his uncle at a young age, and he stayed in the family business until well after his end. Zatara received some guidance from the Phantom Stranger , and his power grew. Through the diaries one of his ancestors, he found the key to his magic was of course to speak his spells backwards. He decided to use his powers for good after using them to avert a stage accident involving a fire. Together with a manservant from India named Tong , Zatara had many adventures, and even became a member of the All-Star Squadron .

Key facts

Zatara is of human origin and first appeared in "Superman, Champion of the Oppressed". The character is published by DC Comics. With 473 recorded issue appearances, Zatara ranks among the most featured characters in comics.