Famous people making comic book cameos isn’t a new phenomenon and has become somewhat of a tradition these days. Whether as a publicity stunt, homage, or just plain fun, these appearances have always been something fans look forward to.
From the presidents to the rappers no one is off limits when it comes to appearing in comics. So, let’s take a closer look at some of the most iconic (and sometimes hilarious) moments where celebrities have teamed up with superheroes.
1. Abraham Lincoln
Abraham Lincoln’s larger-than-life legacy extends far beyond history books. Surprisingly, he’s a frequent visitor in the comic book world. He has teamed up with Captain America to fight the good fight, appeared alongside Spider-Man, and even made his way into DC’s The Flash.
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However, perhaps his most unforgettable moment came when he was resurrected as a zombie to take on Deadpool, in a gory, hilarious showdown. Moreover, there’s something undeniably fascinating about seeing one of history’s most revered figures navigating the superhero world.
2. Eminem
When you think of Eminem, you think of raw lyrics, breathless rapping, and a love for chaos. That’s why his team-up with Marvel’s Punisher feels like a match made in comic book heaven. In ‘Eminem/Punisher: Kill You‘, the rapper crosses paths with Frank Castle, resulting in an explosive adventure.
Additionally, the rap icon also had a memorable crossover with Spider-Man. The story features Eminem crossing paths with Peter Parker during a concert gone wrong, with the two teaming up to tackle a villain threatening the crowd. These collaborations were as bold and unpredictable as Slim Shady himself.
3. Muhammad Ali
Muhammad Ali stepping into a boxing ring with Superman? It sounds absurd, yet somehow, it worked and became one of the most legendary comic book moments ever. In the 1978 comic Superman vs. Muhammad Ali, the two icons square off in an intergalactic boxing match to save Earth.
Moreover, with no powers allowed, the Man of Steel learns what it means to face a true champion. Spoiler: Ali wins, proving that even superheroes can’t match the “Greatest of All Time.”
4. Barack Obama
Barack Obama’s love for comic books is no secret. So, his appearance in ‘The Amazing Spider-Man #583‘ was a fan-favorite moment. Released during his inauguration, the issue sees Spidey thwarting an imposter Chameleon who tries to impersonate the President.
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Naturally, Spider-Man saves the day, and the real Obama gives him a heartfelt fist bump. Moreover, by appearing in one of Marvel’s flagship titles, Obama cemented himself as a pop culture icon as well as a real-world superhero for many.
5. John F. Kennedy
Long before Barack Obama’s cameo, John F. Kennedy graced the pages of a Superman comic in a Cold War-era story. Needing a symbol of health and fitness to inspire the nation, JFK calls upon Superman to spread the message.
In return, Kennedy helps the Man of Steel by impersonating Clark Kent to protect his secret identity in a heartwarming, albeit cheesy, moment. This crossover was as wholesome as it gets, and perfectly captured the spirit of those days.
6. Stephen Colbert
Stephen Colbert is no stranger to the absurd his comic book debut was equally wild. In Marvel’s universe, Colbert runs for president during the 2008 election and even wins the popular vote. Although he doesn’t ultimately take office (a technicality, of course), the campaign featured cameos from several Marvel heroes.
Colbert’s geeky persona and sharp wit made his inclusion feel natural. Additionally, his campaign storyline poked fun at politics while celebrating comic books as a space where anything, literally anything, is possible.
7. David Letterman
David Letterman hosting The Avengers on his late-night show sounds ridiculous. However, Marvel Studios made it happen in ‘Avengers #239‘. When the Earth’s Mightiest Heroes appear on Late Night with David Letterman, the show’s set is booby-trapped by a villain.
Like usual, the Avengers save the day, and Letterman is as unflappable as ever, cracking jokes amid the chaos. Additionally, it confirms the existence of TV hosts in the Marvel universe.
8. Bill And Hillary Clinton
The 1990s were a wild time for comics, and nothing proves that more than Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton attending Superman’s funeral in The ‘Death of Superman’. Alongside Lois Lane, Batman, and other fictional characters, the real-life first couple pays their respects to the fallen hero.
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They even get speaking lines, adding a surreal touch to the otherwise somber story. Their cameo highlights how deeply Superman’s legacy is interwoven with American culture. Moreover, having the Clintons at his funeral was both bizarre and fitting.
