Cardiac (character)

Amazing Spider-Man Vol 1 344

Fictional character from the Marvel Comics universe

Comics character

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Publication information
Publisher	Marvel Comics
First appearance	The Amazing Spider-Man #342 (December 1990)

Cardiac (real name Elias Wirtham) is a fictional character appearing in American comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character first appeared in The Amazing Spider-Man #342 in December 1990 and was created by David Michelinie and Erik Larsen.

Fictional character biography

Elias Wirtham was a highly respected cardiologist and surgeon who became disillusioned with the medical establishment after the death of his brother, who could not afford an expensive life-saving treatment. This event led Wirtham to become the vigilante known as Cardiac, using his medical knowledge and advanced technology to fight against corporate greed and corruption in the healthcare industry.

Wirtham's transformation into Cardiac involved the implantation of a beta particle reactor in his chest, which granted him superhuman abilities. As Cardiac, he possesses enhanced strength, speed, agility, and reflexes, as well as the ability to generate and discharge bio-electric energy. He uses these powers to target individuals and organizations he deems responsible for the suffering of others, often clashing with Spider-Man in the process.

Powers and abilities

Cardiac's primary power source is the beta particle reactor in his chest, which provides him with superhuman physical attributes and the ability to project bio-electric energy. He is also a skilled hand-to-hand combatant and possesses extensive medical knowledge, which he uses both in his civilian identity and as a vigilante.

Notable story arcs

Cardiac has been involved in several significant story arcs within the Marvel Universe, including:

• His initial encounters with Spider-Man, where their differing views on justice and morality often put them at odds.
• Teaming up with other heroes to combat larger threats, such as during the Maximum Carnage storyline.
• His ongoing crusade against corporate corruption and unethical medical practices.

Related characters

• Spider-Man: Often an adversary and occasional ally, Spider-Man's interactions with Cardiac highlight the moral complexities of vigilantism.
• Doctor Octopus: One of the many villains Cardiac has faced in his quest for justice.
• The Punisher: Another vigilante with whom Cardiac has crossed paths, sharing a similar but more lethal approach to crime-fighting.

In other media

Cardiac has appeared in various Marvel Comics adaptations, including animated television series and video games, further expanding his presence in the Marvel Universe.

See also

• List of Marvel Comics characters
• Spider-Man supporting characters
• Vigilante (comics)