CBR's Top Fifty Avengers (2011) -- Revealed!

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Moonstone filled the role of Ms. Marvel on Norman Osborn's team of Avengers after Osborn was given responsibility by the U.S. government for redeveloping the team after the Skrulls’ invasion of earth.

During her time as an Avenger, Moonstone helped defeat Morgan le Fay. And then slept with Noh-Varr and caused him to leave the team when she told him the rest were all criminals.

Eventually Carol Danvers returned from seeming death, though, and under the power of the Storyteller was able to temporarily depower Moonstone and tried to get Karla to reexamine her life. Then she slept with Bullseye because she found him attractive in his Hawkeye identity.

During the Siege of Asgard Moonstone helped Osborn beat Thor but was chased away by Maria Hill, and she was present when Sentry tore Ares in half. Karla battled Ms. Marvel and beat her only because Osborn blasted Ms. Marvel with an energy beam in the back. Moonstone tried to escape after Osborn reverted back to his Green Goblin persona, but was arrested by the Avengers. Since then she was recruited into Luke Cage’s newest incarnation of the Thunderbolts.

Here's why Kieran_Frost picked Moonstone as his favorite Avenger:

Karla’s reign as “Ms. Marvel” on the Dark Avengers was short lived, but still managed to capitalise on her character. One of the most enjoyable subplots in the comic was the duel role Karla displayed in her relationship with Osborn. On the one hand playing the voice of reason, giving vital council to Osborn whenever he was close to tipping over the edge; warning him during the battle on Utopia that “the whole world is watching” and he must back down, or else be forced to kill them all. She also warned him (and was ultimately proved right) in the dangers of manipulating an entity as powerful as the Sentry (aptly comparing his instability/mixed with sheer volume of power to the Scarlet Witch and the destruction she brought down on the Avengers). Yet Karla also played a part in the slow breakdown of Osborn’s sanity: first getting ride of Noh-Var by “accidentally” revealing them as “villains”, the other her manipulation of Hawkeye (Bullseye); using her seemingly depthless desire for lust to both get Lester under her thumb, while also taunting Osborn with her public act.

While she didn’t get nearly as much attention in the main comic, ultimately, the best parts of Karla being on the Dark Avengers was the exposure and “career boost” such a significant role brought her. Rather than just getting one monthly dose (at best) of Karla in the pages of Thunderbolts, now we had numerous appearances in other comics; allowing her many more opportunities to shine. She got to “take over” the Ms. Marvel comic, at long last giving her the solo comic she so richly deserved! (even if it was short lived). Her stint in the Ms. Marvel comic saw her go toe-to-toe against an uber-powerful Ms. Marvel (one half of a “split” Catherine Donovan/Carol Danvers personality), with a wonderful emotional core seeing Karla fighting for identity in Osborn’s “new world order”, linked to Karla struggling to come to terms her earlier act of matricide. She played a recurring guest star in Dark Wolverine, exploring her fascination with Daken, and ultimately seeing the “queen of manipulation” get out-flaked, in the one-issue story “A Cautionary Tale”. Another immensely enjoyable rise to fame, was her inclusion in the X-men arc Utopia. Not only did we again get to see Dr. Sofen kicking ass and taking names in the main event, she also played a role in the wonderful 2-issue arc in X-men: Legacy; taking down Gambit and Danger; and facing off against an “Ares powered” Rogue. It was a very impressive display of her raw power; capturing why this woman began as a viable threat for Hulk.

Finest hour: in the battle between the Dark Avengers and the armies of sorceress Morgan le Fay, Karla deduces the power source Morgana is using is her sword, so Karla flies directly at her, phases through her magic blast, then shoots her off the giant dragon she is riding. AMAZING!!!

Moonstone currently appears in Thunderbolts.

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Vance Astro found himself. Literally. As a boy he was visited by his alternate, time-traveling future self who convinced him not to become an astronaut. So that only apparently left the option of becoming a superhero called Marvel Boy.

Vance is a mutant. Vance’s father physically abused him so he ran away and joined the Unlimited Class Wrestling Federation where he befriended the Thing. He later applied for the Avengers, but was rejected by Captain America. But then helped found the New Warriors, where he developed a relationship with his teammate Firestar.

Vance’s father continued to abuse him and his mother, though, and Vance instinctively reacted unintentionally killing his father. Vance turned himself in and, while acquitted of murder, was convicted of negligent homicide and was sentenced to time in the Vault.

After his time in prison, he adopted the new codename Justice and rejoined the New Warriors, even leading the team for a while. But it was while accompanying teammate Rage that he and Firestar helped defeat Morgan le Fay and was offered Avengers membership.

He was thrilled, but made some small rookie mistakes due to his hero worship, but proved himself by coming up with a way to defeat Ultron. He and Firestar also spent some time undercover investigating the Triune Understanding. He then assisted in the resistance against Kang before opting for reserve membership with Firestar.

But all was not well. While both kept their mutations after the Scarlet Witch’s decimation, Firestar broke off their engagement because she wanted to live a little.

With many of his former teammates perishing in the catalyst of the superhero civil war, Justice joined Captain America’s resistance after the death of Giant-Man.

Justice was recruited to head the youth outreach arm of the Initiative by Iron Man, and was unaware of the shadier aspects of the program. During this time he began dating Ultra Girl. After learning of the truth behind the Initiative’s operations, he deserted the program and recruited some other former New Warriors members to his cause and formed Counter Force, though Ultra Girl returned to the Initiative.

During the Dark Reign of Norman Osborn, Vance’s group joined up with Gauntlet and Tigra to become the informal Avengers Resistance. It was this team that took down Camp HAMMER while most of the Initiative was busy with the Siege of Asgard.

Vance has since become one of the teaching staff at Avengers Academy, alongside former teammates Hank Pym, Tigra, Quicksilver and Speedball.

Here’s why baltiroo picked Justice as his favorite Avenger:

Vance manifested his mutant psychokinetic powers after a visit from his alternate future self. Wanting to impress his idol (Captain America) he came to the Avengers mansion to ask for a place on the team. Captain America didn't think that he was ready and so Vance turned to the New Warriors to team up. He grew and developed his powers and met his long-term girlfriend, fellow New Warrior and Avenger - Firestar. He served valiantly with the New Warriors and quickly showed his leadership potential by consistently using his teammate's skills in the best combinations. After accidently using his powers in self-defense, he killed his abusive father. Rather than running away from his actions, he stood up and faced trial and served his time in prison. He showed great reserve and prudence after resisting a jailbreak and deciding to fully serve his time. After his release from jail, he served faithfully with his New Warriors until he and Firestar were asked to be Avengers. Realizing his life-long dream as an Avenger he set out to be the best he could be, which was a difficult task as he was now shoulder to shoulder to his heroes - Thor, Captain America and Iron Man. Justice finally proved he was Avenger material as he was integral to defeating Ultron. He left the Avengers to staff the Avengers Initiative as a counselor to help train the new generation of heroes. Once he found the deceit of the Skrull invasion, he led a team of Avengers to rebel against the the Skrulls as well as exposing the villainy of Camp H.A.M.M.E.R. He is currently a faculty member of the Avengers Academy teaching ethics to six young heroes who are at risk to turn evil. His has shown time and again the best qualities of an Avenger - Strength of character, leadership, a willingness to learn and follow commands and an inherent sense of right and wrong. Justice will always be a sterling example of what Avengers can and should be.

And here’s why countryfan2004 picked Justice as one of his favorites:

Justice didn't become a superhero out of vengeance for a parent's killing. He did that himself when he couldn't control his powers and telekinetically killed his father. Rather than being given the chance to go to Xavier's he rightfully went to prison in The Vault. Even there, he did not become bitter; rather he assisted the guards in a prisoner uprising. He indeed lives up to his codename Justice. What's compelling about him is that he's trying to hard not to fall into the same trap that his own father and his grandfather fell in: the abusive parent. Now Vance is a teacher, guiding teenage superhumans to use their powers in a just way. He's a genuine person, following in the footsteps of Captain America, trying to do what is right. But he is often ignorant of the bad in the world, even if it's right under his nose. Justice is a complex and compelling character that surely ranks among the top Avengers.

And here’s what Alan2099 had to say:

Justice has been a hero for a long time. He'd help saved the world on quite a few occasions and served as team leader, so it's not like the guy hadn't been around. You'd expect a guy like that to fit right in on the Avengers, but while other people just came in and acted like it was no big thing. Justice was practically star struck and went around smiling like a kid in a candy store. Often you hear people talk about how important and famous the Avengers were, but you never really got to see it from anybody on the inside before, and I think it served both to show how big the team was and to show that even heroes can be overly impressed by something. No matter what was going on, he helped keep things feeling positive and added a youthful energy to the group that they otherwise lacked.

Justice currently appears in Avengers Academy.

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Brian Braddock was transformed into Captain Britain after a fatal motorcycle accident. Given the chooice between the Amulet of Right or the Sword of Might by Merlyn and his daughter Roma, he chose the Amulet.

Becoming a member of the interdimensional Captain Britain Corps, Braddock became the protector of his own "Earth-616" and soon the champion of Great Britain. In the ensuing years he encountered other superheroes such as Spider-Man, the Black Knight and Captai America, and was among the world's heroes that participated in the Grandmaster's Contest of Champions. He was instrumental in saving the word from Necromon and Mad Jim Jaspers. He also found himself killed a couple times, only to be resurrected by Merlyn as a stronger hero.

Taking a sabbatical, Brian was temporarily replaced as Captain Britain by his sister Betsy, though she was tortured and blinded by his old foe Slaymaster. She, of course, went on to become the X-Man Psylocke.

Soon, Braddock helped form Excalibur, Britain's premier super-team, and the Knights of Pendragon. Over several years of adventures, Braddock overcomes bouts of alcoholism and eventually marries his lover and teammate, Meggan, and Roma relinquished control of Otherworld to the couple who become rulers of the multiverse.

Since then Meggan has been lost and found, Braddock found himself active as Captain Britain again and active on a new Excalibur, and eventually working with Pete Wisdom and other British heroes for MI 13. And killed and resurrected by Merlin again.

After the end of Norman Osborn's Dark Reign and the return of Steve Rogers, Captain Britain accepted an offer of Avengers membership from Captain America, to mixed reactions from his MI 13 teammates.

Here's why Beadle picked Captain Britain as one of his favorite Avengers:

Firstly, let me just say there is an element to this choice that is entirely shameless patriotism. I'm British, so the fact that Brian represents my country means he gets a certain number of points automatically. But there is so much more to him than just a flag-wearer with a square jaw. He is an exceptionally underrated powerhouse, and when the big-hitters of the Marvel Universe get mentioned, Brian is never on the list. But he really should be. Roma has Brian on speed-dial - that alone should show just how important he is. He's also a more than competent leader, while having his own set of personality flaws which round out his character nicely (e.g. the obligatory alcohol problems, that every good character should have. - Drink safe, kids!). And let's be honest - stuff happens to Brian and those around him which simply doesn't happen to other heroes. Really, can you name another character who has two siblings; one of whom is a psychotic reality warper and the other is a body-swapped psychic ninja? When it comes to star quality, Brian has it. Don't believe me? Do the maths (and yes, "maths" is a plural - it's short for mathematics, silly Americans). Brian + it = Britain. QED.

And here's what Panic had to say:

I'm old enough to remember when Marvel first created Captain Britain for the U.K. market; for an English kid who loved American superhero comics, seeing a British character as a hero (as opposed to a quaint stereotypical English supporting character) in my favourite fictional universe was really cool. It didn't even matter that he was a slightly crap character concept - after all, Captain Britain is at its heart the story of a man who, when finding himself attacked and his colleagues slaughtered, is given the choice between pulling a sword out of a stone... or putting on a necklace! And he went for the necklace!

I know we're not the most macho nation in the world, but come on! Who wouldn't go for the sword?

Anyway, Marvel U.K.'s revival of the character at the hands of Alan Davis/ Alan Moore/ Dave Thorpe changed him from a character I quite liked into one of my favourite superheroes. I still consider that strip one of the high-points of Marvel in the eighties, along with Simonson's Thor, and other classics of the era. Though later writers seemed to go out of their way to ruin the character (Claremont's boorish incompetent Brian in early Excalibur is one of the nastiest cases of character assassination I've read), I still have fondness for Captain Britain. And now he's an Avenger! And not written by Bendis! Hooray!

Captain Britain most recently appeared in Age of Heroes and Deadpool Team-Up.

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Richard Rider was randomly chosen by the alien Rhomann Dey, last surviving Nova Centurion of the planet Xandar's elite Nova Corps, to inherit his power and succeed him in the rank of Nova Prime following the destruction of his world. Rider jumped into the life of a superhero, and as Nova found himself battling street criminals and cosmic villains alike. Nova ended up traveling across the stars to the newly reconstructed Xandar, where he spent over a year in a bitter war against the Skrulls. After the war, Nova requested to return home, but had to relinquish his powers when he left the Corps.

But his powers came back, with the help of Night Thrasher, and he became a founding member of the New Warriors. During his time as a warrior, Rider was used by a former Nova Corps Centurion to help restore the dead Xandar, and was witness to the reformation of the Nova Corps, which appointed him Centurion Prime.

Rider briefly reunited with the New Warriors as part of a reality television show, but left the group after the first season to join the rest of the Nova Corps against Annihilus' Annihilation Wave (and was therefore not present when most of the New Warriors died in Stamford). Xandar and the Nova Corps were again destroyed, with Rider as the only survivor. As the only surviving Centurion, Rider made contact with the Xandarian Worldmind, which uploaded itself and the entire Nova Force into his body and mind. Rider took control of the United Front in a nearly year-long campaign, and after nearly a year defeated Annihilus himself in personal combat, ending the war.

Nova next found himself defending the Kree from an invasion by the Phalanx, under the control of Ultron, and then defended Project Pegasus against the Skrulls during their invasion of Earth. It was during the Skrull's invasion that Nova witnessed the return of Quasar as well as the reestablishment of the Nova Corps. He found himself rescuing the Corps from the war between the Shi'ar and the Kree, though many Centurions were slaughtered by the Imperial Guard.

Nova then found himself teamed with Darkhawk, investigating the Fault, and returning with an alternate Namorita, and later battling the Cancerverse's Quasar.

At the request of Steve Rogers, Nova soon joined his secret Avengers team and was sent to Mars to investigate Roxxon activity. There he was possessed by the Thorn Crown, but was eventually freed. And Nova left the team shortly after to assist in the Thanos Imperative.

The Magus and the Universal Church of Truth had torn open the Fault, releasing monstrous creatures, led by the Cancerverse's Lord Mar-Vell, upon the universe. Nova led other cosmic heroes in an attack on Mar-Vell, but lost badly. While Thanos orchestrated the defeat of Mar-Vell and the collapse of the Cancerverse and the Fault, Death once again spurned Thanos and he became enraged. While their comrades teleported to Safety, Nova and Star Lord remained behind to keep Thanos confined to the imploding Cancerverse.

After their apparent deaths, Nova and Star Lord were memorialized on Hala, the Worldmind shut down and the Nova Force disappeared.

Here's why Nova was among LXDTS's favorite Avengers:

Nova, for me, is a great Avenger because of his will and ability to focus and fight against adversity. When the entire Nova Corps fell in Annihilation, he didn't give up and run. He accepted the power and responsibility needed to save the universe. He looks past his fears and doubt to fight for the survival of life in general no matter what the odds. He also is willing to make whatever sacrifice is needed to protect innocent lives, as in the Thanos Imperative. His good naturedness, sense of responsibility, leadership skills, intelligence, and power class make him the perfect Avenger for any generation.

Nova most recently appeared in Thanos Imperative.

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John Walker was a soldier in the U.S. Army who went on to receive treatments from the Power Broker that granted him superhuman abilities. To pay for his treatments he received corporate sponsorshp and became the hero Super-Patriot and challenged Captain America's role as a symbol of America. In a defining moment Super-Patriot killed a terrorist who threatedened Washington D.C.

Soon after, Steve Rogers was forced to abandon the Captain America identity and Walker was made the new Captain America, activing as an operative for the U.S. government. Most of this was a ploy by the Red Skull to tarnish the Captain America image.

Although sincere in the role, Walker was more brutal than his predecessor. When Walker's identity was revealed to the press and his parents were killed, he had a breakdown. He recovered eventually, and aided Steve Rogers, now called the Captain, in defeating the Red Skull. Walker persuaded Rogers to retake the Captain America identity, and soon resurfaced as the U.S. Agent and was placed on the West Coast Avengers as a watchdog for the Commission on Superhuman Activities, but his loyalties to the team eventually superceded those of the Commission.

After the WCA was dissolved he went on to join Force Works, but he left the team after it was reabsorbed into the Avengers. He found himself teaming with teh UK's Super Soldiers, and went on to lead the Jury, and later rejoined the Commission as head of the government's U.S. Marshal division called S.T.A.R.S. He eventually became a member fo the New Invaders and insisted on being called Captain America for a time.

During the superhero Civil War, U.S. Agent was asked to lead a newly formed team called Omega Flight in Canada, since Alpha Flight had recently been killed.

Once Norman Osborn took control of SHIELD and the Avengers, U.S. Agent left Omega Flight and rejoined Hank Pym's new team of Avengers until his rank was stripped from him by Osborn. Despite this, Walker joined in teh defense of Osborn's siege of Asgard, during which he lost an arm and leg.

As thanks for his service, the wheelchair-bound Walker was appointed the new warde of the Raft and helped establish the new Thunderbolts beta team.

Here's why U.S. Agent is among Specimen 297's favorite Avengers:

I've always been a big Captain America fan but I've always found Steve Rogers is just a bit TOO perfect. I find the struggles of other characters to live up to the ideals and image that Steve has upheld as Captain America far more interesting than Steve’s internal drama and quest to prove himself to himself. Now, John Walker is the very definition of a flawed character. He is an extremely conservative man with a bad temper who will do almost anything his government requires of him. On one hand an awful choice for Captain America, but on the other hand the perfect man to be Captain America. With adding him to the Avengers we got plenty of interesting aspects and stories: from his quest to get away from the image of "Captain America clone", his failed attempts at motivating and leading the team and the rest of the team slowly realising the Agent's worth on the team.

And here's what The_Greatest_Username had to say:

I like US Agent because he's different from your typical hero. He's not the most compassionate guy, and he's not afraid to be a jerk to someone. While those aren't the best qualities in a human being, I find them enjoyable to read.

U.S. Agent currently appears in Thunderbolts.

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Namor had more often than not been a foe of the Avengers since returning after World War II. Always proud, often arrogant, the one-time Invader regularly found himself in the company of the likes of Doctor Doom and Magneto and posing a threat to humanity. But, his disdain for the surface world subsided, mostly, and while he regularly teamed up with his Defenders allies, it wasn't until years later during a low point in his life that he was offered Avengers membership by Captain America. He and his new bride, Marrina, had just recently lost their undersea kingdom so, directionless, he accepted and the two of them relocated to Avengers Mansion. Several of the other Avengers weren't thrilled with the idea of Namor being on the team, and the public was torn. Protests in front of Avengers Mansion was a daily occurrence during Namor's tenure. Despite the public's reaction, Namor was a valuable member in battles against the Beyonder, Kang, Attuma, and the Olympian gods and in recovering the cocoon which held a recuperating Jean Grey. But he soon found new duties beneath the sea which kept his attention away from the Avengers. Eventually, though, Marrina became pregnant, and her alien DNA mutated her into a savage beast which Namor was forced to slay usign the Black Knight's enchanted ebony blade. His wife presumed dead, Namor soon left the team.

For a time he was part of the clandestine group of Illuminati. He has since continued to team with the Fantastic Four, the Defenders, the Avengers and the New Invaders, He even started a corporation dedicated to conservation and the environment and sponsored an incarnation of Heroes for Hire. He was instrumental in the return of Iron Fist. He has also regained rule of Atlantis, though it's been tenuous, having lost it to Attuma on multiple occasions.

Namor's cusin Namorita was killed in the disaster that acted as the catalyst for the superhero Civil War and he led Atlantean fores in support of Captain America's anti-registration heroes. He posed as an ally of Norman Osborn's during his dark reign, but turned on him with his lover, Emma Frost.

Namor has since relocated his loyal Atlanteans to New Atlantis, which lies beneath and actually physically supports the mutant island of Utopia. Finally accepting his place in the mutant community, Namor is now counted as a member of the X-Men. Imperius Rex!

Here's why the Sub-Mariner is among The Great Grape's favorite Avengers:

Namor provides a regal Avenger that is not "above mortals" in the way someone like Thor is.

I love the Sub-Mariner's ability to fit well in with various teams (Defenders, Invaders, and Avengers.) I enjoyed his brief rivalry of sorts with Hercules too. And while he is noble at heart, he can be kind of a "tweener" too. With his alliances at times with figures like Dr.Doom and troubles with the Fantastic Four over the years.

Having someone like Subby on the Avengers (or other team) can provide them with various extra story tangents to explore.

He's a faovite of EXCELSIOR 2.0's also:

Namor is literally the 616 alpha dog. He does and says and goes where he pleases, and has the power to back up everything he does, which is always a plus. He's always so dramatic and entertaining with his random outbursts (of unbridled rage usually, but w/e), always thick headed and stupid, yet brave and cunning. His titles say it all, The First Mutant, a Invader, Avenger, Defender, X-Man, and King of Atlantis. His looks don't work against him either.

And here's what SlightlyMad had to say about the Avenging Son:

As someone who has claimed dominion over two-thirds of the planet's surface Namor could choose no greater allies to help defend it than The Avengers. Namor has fought alongside Captain America longer than anyone and although he has been known to keep questionable company (e.g. Dr. Doom) there is little doubt as to where his loyalties would lie when called upon by his oldest friend.

The Sub-Mariner most recently appeared in Uncanny X-Men.

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Ares loves war. But he hates Hercules. Hercules killed his Ares' pets and their father always loved Hercules best, you see. Making matters worse, Zeus let the humans' worship of the gods come to an end, something for which Ares has always held a grudge. He's tried to overthrow Olympus numerous times, often coming into conflict with Hercules, Thor and their Avengers teammates.

But Olympus still called on Ares to come to its defense when Pluto set an army of dead against it. But Ares was disparaged by his brethren for his crude and dishonorable nature, and he abandoned Olympus to live amongst the mortals where he worked as a builder and fathered a son named Alexander (who was actually Phobos, the god of fear).

But then the Japanese god Amatsu-Mikaboshi threatened Olympus, and Zeus called on him again. But Ares refused, so Zeus had Alexander kidnapped to goad the god of war into their aid. Ares does so, only to rescue his son, but Zeus was killed by Mikaboshi, who in turn was defeated by Alexander. Ares and Alexander returned to Earth.

Soon, after the end of the superhero Civil War, Iron Man offered Ares a spot on his new Avengers team. Ares often was at odds with the Avengers' methods of combat, but was an asset to the team, playing a major part in defeating Ultron, Doctor Doom and the Skrulls. During the latter's invasion of Earth, Alexander was recruited into Nick Fury's Secret Warriors.

During the reorganization of the Avengers under Norman Osborn,
Ares remained a member of the team. During this time he would come into conflict with both his former Avengers teammates, the X-Men and the Secret Warriors.

Osborn then convinced Ares to plan the invasion of Asgard, lying to him that Loki had taken control of it. During the Siege, Ares learned of Osborn's deceptions and turns against him, only to be literally ripped apart by the Sentry.

Ares was soon joined in Elysium by his son, who was killed by Gorgon.

Here's why jackolover picked Ares as one of his favorite Avengers:

Ares is someone who doesn't have scruples, and will kill anyone who crosses him. But coupled with this is his sound battle tactics, as shown in the Ultron fight of MA, his tactical instinct that warned the Avengers the Savage Land was a trap by the Skrulls, and his raw brute force when he crashed the Quinjet into the enemy in the Doom arc of MA. I like having him around because he adds danger to any group he is with. He slapped Bullseye for being childish and made the Dark Avengers behave like men instead of children simply because of his force of will.

And here's what SlightlyMad had to say:

When going into battle who better to have on your side than a god of war? As with many Avengers, Ares once started out as an enemy of The Avengers, but his recent time upon Earth raising a son seemed to have given him some respect for humanity. While I considered Thor for my list & do love Wolverine, but prefer him as an X-Man to an Avenger, Ms. Marvel suggested that Ares combines godly might Thor with the savagery of Wolverine. Although he may be "dead" at the moment, it's had to keep a good god down and probably a lot harder when it comes to a bad one, so when he does return, I hope The Avengers will still have a place for him at their table.

Ares last appeared in Chaos War and Chaos War: Ares.

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Bobbi Morse is a scientist-turned-spy-turned superhero!

Dr. Barbara Morse joined SHIELD as Agent 19 after getting her Ph.D. and soon found herself getting abducted by AIM, getting rescued by the Man-Thing, and working alongside of Ka-Zar.

Until Ka-Zar returned to the Savage Land and met Shanna the She-Devil.

Bobbi was soon asked to investigate corruption in SHIELD. So she dropped out of the organization and became the superhero called the Huntress. But D.C. introduced a Huntress character, so Bobbie changed her identity to Mockingbird. And with the help of Spider-Man uncovered the corrupt SHIELD director.

Mockingbird then met Hawkeye and the two quickly become romantically involved and then eloped. Mockingbird soon became an Avenger as she relocated to Los Angeles with Hawkeye to help founding their west coast team.

In a defining moment, while in 1876, Mockingbird was abducted and drugged by and brainwashed into loving the Phantom Rider. After breaking free of his control, Mockingbird sought revenge, and allowed him to plunge to his death off of a cliff.

This led to a rift between Hawkeye and Mockingbird, and they both left the team and decided to divorce. But they made an attempt at reconciliation, and traveled to Milwaukee where they trained the unofficial Great Lakes Avengers and worked on their relationship. They both returned to the Avengers, though still estranged. And then Mockingbird was replaced by...a Skrull imposter!!!! But the Mockingbird imposter, believing she was Mockingbird, sacrificed her life to save Hawkeye from Mephisto.

After the Skrull invasion of Earth it was discovered that various individuals who had been replaced by Skrulls, including Mockingbird, were alive and she tearfully reunited with Clint (now going by Ronin).

Mockingbird then rejoined the Avengers team and also formed the World Counter-Terrorism Agency with a group of fellow former SHIELD agents who had also been Skrull-abductees. Mockingbird rekindled her romance with Ronin, but they decide to remain unmarried.

During a raid on a HAMMER warehouse, Mockingbird was mortally wounded, but Nick Fury gave her a top secret combination of the Super Solder serum and the Infinity Formula that saved her life. But it's unknown what other consequences this might have.

Here's why Patrick Hultquist picked Mockingbird as one of his favorite Avengers:

Mockingbird, to me, is the female and Marvel equivalent to Batman. Her first appearance aside, where she demonstrated psychic abilities that were never repeated or mentioned again, she has become a super-heroine due to her exceptional training and determination. She didn't have any super-soldier formula, or a blood transfusion to give her powers; she just kicks butt with her battle-staves and leaves superior opponents in her wake. She's a founding member of the West Coast Avengers, and proved herself a formidable member of the team. And unlike most other Avengers, she actually does have something to avenge due to her ill-treatment by the Phantom Rider. Bobbi Morse is a tactically brilliant member of any team, and I enjoy her currently on the New Avengers.

Here's why she's one of Dermie's favorites:

Mockingbird is one of my favourite Avengers for her scathing sense of humour--even though she has no powers, her barbs and insults can do just as much damage as her battle staves. And while there are plenty of male characters that get to use that sort of battle tactic (like Deadpool and Spider-Man), Bobbi was one of the few women who got to use words as weapons.

And despite often claiming that she feels like she doesn't belong among the heavyweight superheroes, time and again she proves that she has what it takes to stand alongside them--she nearly defeated the High Evolutionary by herself, for crying out loud!

And here's why highwayguy had to say:

Behind every good man is an even better woman. The introduction of Mockingbird to Hawkeye and the West Coast Avengers brought new excitement to the 80s and early 90s. Her savvy attitude and well-honed skills were a joy to behold. On top of that, the character dealt with real-life issues such as drug-rape, divorce and abduction, through which she always prevailed. Mockingbird has consistently shown that she will proudly stand tall as a woman, as a hero, and as an Avenger.

Mockingbird currently appears in New Avengers.

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Wolverine had an established superhero career by the time he was invited to join the Avengers. He had, of course, been on the mutant X-Men team for years. And during those years he had encountered the Avengers many times, sometimes teaming up with them and others coming into conflict. Heck, he first met Captain America during WWII. So the Avengers were well aware of who and what Wolverine was when they asked him to join. But this was a new Avengers team and they believed they needed someone like Wolverine who would do what it takes if and when necessary. He is, after all, the best ther is at what he does...

And they were right. Wolverine has aided the Avengers during some of their biggest challenges. It was also during this time that he regained his memories and learned that he had a son. Then the superhero Civil War happened. But Wolverine never questioned his allegiances, and stood with the renegade Avengers. He also managed to maintain his active participation with the X-men (who thankfully had a few teleporters) and also covertly with the X-Force wetworks team. Though Cyclops ended the X-Force program, Wolverine secretly continues to lead a new X-Force team.

After the end of Norman Osborn's dark reign, Wolverine continues to serve on the Avengers. And most recently, after coming into a conflict with Cyclops over the use of children as soldiers, he left Utopia, taking half the X-Men with him, to open a new school for mutants in New York.

Wolverine is Wolverine12's favorite Avenger:

The reason I chose Wolverine as my number 1 Avenger is simple, he is the hero that the Avengers have needed for a long time. While the traditional thinking of the Avengers has always been to avoid killing at all costs, and it is truly noble, sometimes villains are simply irredeemable. Had Captain America been willing to kill the Red Skull or Sin the current deaths from fear itself could have been avoided. By taking one life Cap could've saved thousands. This rings true to any foe that has opposed the Avengers over the years multiple times that could've been dealt with in a more permanent manner. Take for another example the current Uncanny X-Force, Logan leads a team that fights to eliminate potentially world ending threats that have attacked earth before and will attack again. Yet another example was Logan's stance on how to deal with Wanda during Decimation. Had the Avengers taken action they could've saved millions of mutants. To kill Wanda truly would have been a difficult decision but Logan is willing to live with the burden. He is willing to be more than just an Avenger, which by definition is action taken after one has been wronged. Logan is willing to stop the destruction before it can happen.

Police try to stop crime before it can happen, why can't the Avengers?

He's also among PantherX's favorite Avengers:

Whether he's slicing through a sentinel or drinking a beer in a bar. Wolverine has proved to be one of the most exciting characters in the Marvel U. Placing him on the Avengers allowed everyone to see why he deserves the right to be called one of earth's mightiest heroes.

And here's what Predabot had to say:

Wolverine is one of my favourite Avengers, because he is the ultimate version of a villain turned good in Marvel Universe, so naturally he belongs on the Avengers.

Unlike so many other characters that have walked his path, he does not waver from it, now that he has found it. Every day he does everything he can, to be a better man. Because unlike other superbeings with troubled pasts, he knows that he may not be particularly noble, and that the only option to his heroism, is a murderous beast.

So every day he goes out there, and holds back the darkness for just a little bit longer, but without, and within.

That's Wolverine - Marvel's quintessential tormented Samurai.

Wolverine currently appears in Avengers, New Avengers, Wolverine, Astonishing X-Men, Wolverine and the X-Men, Wolverine: The Best There Is, and X-Force.

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We all know the story. Bucky Barnes was an orphan, grew in and was trained by the military. He met and became friends with Steve Rogers and, after learning Rogers was Captain America, became his costumed partner in the war against the Nazis. He joined the Invaders and also organized the Kid Commandos and the Liberty Legion and worked with the Young Allies. But toward the end of the war, Bucky and Captain America were believed killed in an encounter with Baron Zemo.

Of course we know Rogers lived on in suspended animation and eventually returned to become the heart of the Avengers, but only recently did the world learn that Bucky survived as well.

His preserved body was recovered by the Russians, brainwashed, and kept in cryostasis unless needed for an operation or assassination as the Winter Soldier. Toward the end of the Cold War he was placed in stasis and forgotten about until he was reactivated by General Aleksander Lukin to be used against the Red Skull. Captain America soon discovered the Winter Soldier's identity and confronted him and, during a heated combat, Cap came into possession of a cosmic cube and used its powers to restore Bucky's lost memories. Overcome with remorse, Bucky retreated to search for Lukin and the Skull, but soon found himself working alongside Rogers and Nick Fury.

Following Captain America's assassination, Bucky became the new Captain America to honor his mentor. Gaining the support of many of Roger's friends, such as the Falcon, the new Captain America continued Rogers' battle against such foes as the Red Skull, Arnim Zola, the Grand Director, the Skrull invasion and joined the new Avengers.

Bucky learned that Steve Rogers wasn't in fact killed, and with the help of his new friends they were able to bring him back. With the original returned, Bucky resolved to give up the Captain America identity, but Rogers officially handed the mantle over to Bucky while Rogers was appointed the new head of U.S. security.

Most recently, Bucky was seemingly killed in battle with Skadi during her attack on Washington, D.C. His lifeless body was rushed to Nick Fury, who gave him the Infinity Formula, which saved his life and restored him. Opting to remain underground, Barnes has returned to his Winter Soldier identity, letting the world think he's truly dead.

Here's why Bucky Barnes is WinterSoldier76's favorite Avengers:

Even though Bucky-Cap's (I loved it when his Avengers teammates called him that) time on the Avengers was short, I loved the tenacity and fearlessness he brought to the team and to the role of Captain America. What makes him a great hero is that he puts his quest for redemption above everything in trying to atone for his actions as the Winter Soldier, which is sometimes as great of a weakness as it is a strength considering the amount of times he's captured and / or (almost) killed.

My favorite Bucky-Cap moment was from New Avengers #58 when he shoots Ares in the face while playing possum! "Impressive."

He's also among Icefalcon's favorites:

I 've seen quite a lot of the sidekick take over his senior partner's role for a while, but I felt it was never done as well well as with Bucky Barnes. From the moment he returned as the Winter Soldier he was instantly one of the coolest characters in the whole Marvel universe.
When he stepped into being Captain America we saw not only the new cool character but also the old sidekick trying really hard to live up to the man he was standing in for. Despite the fact he had actually become something very different in the meantime.

And here's what Godlike13 had to say:

He's my Captain America. Not this representation of a 50's ideal of America, but the modern America that is. Plus he tried to give all guns, LoL.

Bucky Barnes currently appears in Captain America & Bucky.

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Quasar's one of those Avengers everyone loves because he's an everyman character, though he's probably a little too cosmic for the Avengers.

Wendell Vaughn is a graduate of the SHIELD Academy who came into possession of the Quantum Bands and became the superhero Marvel Boy. And then Marvel Man. And then Quasar.

He quickly found himself fighting alongside other heroes like Captain America, the Falcon and the Hulk and later became the security chief of Project: Pegasus. He journeyed to Uranus where he learned the true nature and origins of the Quantum Bands and he first encountered the abstract called Eon. Eon explained that the bands were originally intended to be worn by the Protector of the Universe and offered him the role. He returned to Earth where he assisted the Avengers in a battle against Super-Nova after which he was made an Avenger. He served with the team for a while before returning his focus to space, but continued to serve as a reserve when needed, such as battling Ego.

When the Annihilation Wave struck, Quasar and Nova tried to stop it, but Quasar was killed by Annihilus, only to be restored to life in a Quantum Energy form thanks to the scientists of Project: Pegasus.

Quasar regained his physical form during the War of Kings when he entered the fault, and he joined Nova's team in resisting the invasion. Quasar has since joined the Annihilators, which has recently come into conflict with the Avengers.

Here's why Quasar is Strathcona's favorite Avengers:

Quasar is down to earth, yet still more capable than most 'cool' characters at Marvel. It is refreshing to read about a character that doesn't believe he is 'The best at what he does', but actually has doubts and genuinely acts like a real person would when presented with the scenarios we see in the MU every day. It was actually his lack of a killer instinct that Gruenwald emphasized, and was the reason he was able to handle the great power that he has.

This attitude brought something to the Avengers that you don't normally get (and definitely don't get noways with only A-list characters on the team). Busiek's use of Quasar during the Morgan Le Fay storyline as one of the few characters that was able to break through her manipulations, based solely on his Avenger-ness, shows that he really is in it to be a hero.

He also made Talisman's cut:

Quasar is the quintessential good guy. He just wants to be Captain America. He was a late 80's/early 90's yuppy, and was unapologetic about it. A regular schmuck. He wasn't the best at anything, really, until he became a superhero, and even then, he still wasn't the best, because his hero was Capt. America. He got a hand-me down job, but made the best of it. Reading his series (under the late, great Mark Gruenwald) I got to experience a lot of the different reaches of the Marvel cosmic Universe that I wasn't quite used to. He had everything. He had Eternals, Elders, a bitchin' hair-do, and one of the best costumes I've ever seen. Oh! And his Journey into Mystery storyline is still one of my favorite stories to this day.

And here's what Chris N had to say:

I like cosmic things. By the time I started reading comics, Captain Marvel was long dead. Luckily, I was just in time for the Infinity Gauntlet, and getting into the Avengers at the right time for them to have one cosmic hero, wielding quantum bands and protecting the universe. Looking back, Wendell's carefree attitude contrasts oddly with his role as protector of the entire universe. Surely he's under more stress than he let on. Surely his role and experiences would change him, harden him. Surely. But, as one examines more closely, the contrast works perfectly. He's not perfect at his job, but he's learning and getting better, and, in the end, able to effectively do his job, while remaining true to the humble, charming, and often idealistic earthman he was before being shouldered with awesome responsibility. That's what makes him a hero.

Quasar currently appears in Annihilators.

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I have to admit, Sersi is one of my favorite characters.

A fourth generation Eternal, Sersi has always enjoyed living among humans. It was while living in New York she became and ally of Thor and later threw a party that was crashed by the Avengers Wasp and Starfox. And sometime later Captain America called on her for assistance (and she became quite smitten). Soon she found herself battling alongside the Avengers against Ghaur and again against the Deviants and Set. When her fellow Eternal, the Forgotten One, was injured while serving as an Avengers they went to her for help and was soon asked to join the team.

She proved to be a valuable member, and was one of the most powerful Avengers ever, and she served a considerably lengthy term, even developing a relationship with the Black Knight. But eventually, Proctor (an alternate version of the Black Knight) drove Sersi mad and nearly destroyed her and the Avengers. After defeating Proctor, but still fearing for her mental stability, Sersi left for another reality and the Black Knight joined her.

The two eventually returned, however, but the Avengers were dead in the wake of Onslaught. The Knight joined a new incarnation of Heroes for Hire, but he and Sersi decided they needed time apart so she returned to Olympia and the Eternals, and ultimately decided to live her own life back in New York City.

Here's why Sersi is Justin K.'s favorite Avengers:

My first exposure to Sersi and comics in general was what drew me to her as a character. Standing toe-to-toe against Exodus, a man who had placed a telekinetic shield all around Genosha and overtook most of the Avengers and X-Men, impressed me. That one appearance alone had me wanting to know more about her. Aside from her sheer strength, she's a woman who doesn't take things too seriously while knowing what her priorities as an Avenger are. She's not afraid to have fun at anyone's expense and she does it with style.

He also made jstar!!'s list of favorites:

Sersi was a member of the Avengers during the time I was most interested in them, and I found her aggressive, saucy attitude refreshing, especially in contrast to her teammate and rival Crystal's more reserved demeanor. Sersi's powerset, while probably problematic to write, is also one of my favorites.

And here's what Royal Flush had to say:

Sersi is one of the most underrated powerhouses in the entire MU. In a primarily male dominated team Sersi was the strong female anchor, something lacking since her departure. Don’t let her beauty fool you, between her strength, her mental powers and her ability to transmutate both matter and energy Sersi can hold her own against almost anyone.

Sersi most recently appeared in Chaos War as a member of the god Squad.

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Doctor Strange is one of those characters that, like Spider-Man, should have joined the Avengers a long time ago. Readers could argue that he's a sorcerer defending against dark mystical forces, not a superhero, but within the context of the MU that really proved not to be true long ago.

Strange has teamed up with virtually every superhero and superhero team at one point or another, and he was a member of the Illuminati, so it made sense that he lent his support to Captain America's anti-regiatration forces during the superhero Civil War. And when he lost the title of Sorcerer Supreme due to invoking dark magic to combat the Hulk and he had to seek out his own successor it made sense that the Avengers were involved and that Strange actually joined the team.

So now, while no longer the Sorcerer Supreme, Doctor Strange is an Avenger and still a master of the mystic arts.

Here's why Doctor Strange is among kitonok's favorite Avengers:

He brings a mystical element to the avengers. And he's a character with a great history, that hasn't become an overused cliche. Interesting power set, personality, voice. Also Dr.Strange is my favorite animated film from Marvel.

And here's what John Ossie has to say:

I like that he knows a lot of spells and I also like his relationship with Spiderman and several other members of the Avengers or just other marvel characters in general.

Doctor Strange currently appears in New Avengers.

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Iron Fist has been a superhero for awhile. Early in his career he teamed with Iron Man and battled Sabretooth, befriended Misty Knight and Colleen Wing, and partnered with Luke Cage to form Heroes for Hire, until he was taken captive and his death faked by the H'ylthri at the directon of Master Khan.

Years later he escaped and returned to help Namor and Misty Knight defeat Master Khan.

After the Avengers and other heroes died facing Onslaught, Iron Fist and Cage reformed Heroes for Hire working with Namor's Oracle Corporation until Namor had to dissolve his company.

During the superhero Civil War, Iron Fist disguised himself as Daredevil to help convince the media and the public that Matt Murdoc was not the masked vigilante. He opposed the SHRA, joining Captain America's forces.

After the arrest of Captain America, Iron fist joined the underground Avengers that Luke Cage was also on, but had to leave the team during Norman Osborn's dark reign. He continued to assist them as needed, though, and eventually rejoined him. In one adventure he found himself the Immortal Weapon of Agamotto. Additonally, he also serves as the mentor to the new Power Man.

Here's why Iron Fist is Fast's favorite Avenger:

Okay, so... Iron Fist. Yes, by now it must be apparent that I looked down the list of eligible Avengers for the poll and picked my favourite characters, regardless of what they actually did in the pages of the Avengers comic - and lets face it, Danny's pretty much been wallpaper here. Occasionally he will punch the ground with his Iron Fist, or you will glimpse him in the background of a big fight scene, but that's it. Which is a pity, because Danny is pretty awesome with the right writer.

Danny Rand studied martial arts in a place that only appears on our plane of existence once every ten years (kind of a kung fu Brigadoon!) and fought a dragon barehanded. The Claremont/Byrne Iron Fist issues are an excellent read, Power Man and Iron Fist was one of the best books Marvel produced in the eighties, and Immortal Iron Fist... well, everyone knows how cool that was. When you stop trying to make Danny a traditional superhero and start focusing on epic mystical kung fu adventure, that's when Iron Fist really starts to shine. Having him drawn by David Aja helps, too.

He's also Jaded Devil's favorite:

Iron Fist is a perfect example of a character who exemplifies the debate that has emerged over some of the selections on this list: characters that voters are just fond of who happen to be on the Avengers versus characters who’ve made an impact over the course of their tenure as Avengers. Because, admittedly, Danny has been little more than window dressing in either of his Avengers stints. So why is he on my list? Because aside from being a character I love, Iron Fist represents a link to Marvel of the 1970s, which was (arguably) their creative heyday. A LOT has happened to Marvel’s characters since then (deaths, rebirths, marriages, children, clones, replacements, multiple shades of Hulk), but Iron Fist has remained more-or-less untouched since his first appearance. Sure he died and was brought back and, yes, his mythology was expanded upon with the introduction of the Immortal Weapons, but Danny and his abilities have remained pretty much the same since his inception without becoming stagnant. That’s a rare quality in a comic character these days (especially one who made in through the 90s), to inspire nostalgia without coming across as a throwback to another time. And along with being a likeable character with a cool costume, great backstory, and kick-ass abilities, that direct link back to the crazy days of Marvel in the 70s is why Iron Fist isn’t only my top pick for this list, but my favorite Marvel character in general.

And here's what Global Honored has to say:

Danny Rand may be a relative newcomer to the team but the invite was long overdue. Though he has only had a brief run as a butt-kicking New Avenger (I prefer to overlook that Logan sparring match), the character himself is one of Marvel's brightest stars over the past decade and deserves a chance to shine with the big boys. The critically acclaimed and fan worshiped Immortal series by Brubaker/Fraction/Aja blew me away and injected a heavy dose of PULP into the Marvel U, cementing Danny as one of my absolute favorite costumed super heroes. Let's face it, the Avengers need a little mysticism and everyone loves kung fu fighting.

Iron Fist currently appears in New Avengers.

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The Hulk was a founding Avenger, but he was a member all of two minutes. In fact, he's probably spent more time battling against the Avengers than alongside them. But almost every time, in the end, the Hulk helps save the day.

The Hulk's legacy on the Avengers is possibly greater than his own time on the team. His one-time partner, Rick Jones, served as an honorary Avenger and even as the sidekick to both Captain America and Captain Marvel. His cousin has served long stints on the team. And his one-time nemesis, General Thunderbolt Ross, has worked on Steve Rogers' secret Avengers team as the Red Hulk.

It's not a matter of if the Hulk and the Avengers' paths will cross again, or even when, but whether it will be as friend or foe.

Here's why Hulk is one of Cavemold's favorite Avengers:

Hulk is one my favorite avengers for several reasons. Hes the green machine that drives the avengers. His rage and power is umatched to his fellow avengers. What makes him more than a tank, is his human side of him. The fact he learns how to control the hulk ,shows hes has a heart. HULK SMASH!

He's also one of comicfan298's favorites:

He was one of the founding members, and though he has clashed with the team time and time again, he can be depended on when it counts.

And here's what Sheldon has to say:

Hulk's time as an avenger was not long, but he is a founding member, and that is good for something. I think he has spent more time on the Avenger's Earth's Mightiest Heroes cartoon than on the team in the comics. But I love him on that show, I love how he's buddies with Wasp, and Hawkeye. I wish the avengers comics had him in them and not Rulk.
So perhaps that's why I ranked him so high, on the possibility that he could be a more prominent member, and as cool as he is on a cartoon....

Hulk currently appears in Incredible Hulk.