The Secret Origin of... ROBOTMAN

Though there were other comics series with similar names before and after, the longest-running Secret Origins comic book was published by DC Comics from April 1986 to August 1990.  It included 50 regular issues, three annuals, and one special edition.  This series of blog posts focuses on the stories that would have, should have, or otherwise follow the spirit of that series.      

The initial format of Secret Origins was to devote the odd-numbered issues to heroes from the Golden Age and the even-numbered issues to more recent heroes.  Beginning with Secret Origins #6 (cover dated September 1986), each issue featured one Golden Age origin and one "Modern" origin."  A number of the final issues of All-Star Squadron, which was slated to be retooled as The Young All-Stars, also featured origins of the Golden Age heroes.  Among them was the origin of All-Star Squadron member Robotman. The premise within the on-going storyline of the series was that the Squadron members were telling their stories to the Tarantula for a book he would write once World War II concluded.  

The Secret Origin of... ROBOTMAN

"The Origin of The Golden Age Robotman" from All-Star Squadron #63 (Novmber 1986) by Roy Thomas, Mike Bair, and Mike Machlan

Synopsis from The All-Star Companion Vol. 2: Gangsters shoot Dr. Robert Crane for refusing to hand over his latest experiment, a mechanical human body made of metal.  Lab assistant Chuck Grayson transplants the dying Crane's brain into the robot.  Crane awakens hours later to find Grayson accused of his murder.  Creating a human disguise ("Paul Dennis"), Crane tracks down the real killers and, as Robotman, brings them to justice.   

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