Aquaman Needs More Respect

I have been a fan of Aquaman for as long as I can remember. I think it's because he is the underdog of superheroes. He never gets the respect like the others.

Recently, I attended the Alex Ross: Heroes & Villains exhibit at the Dunn Museum. There were about 100 beautiful pieces of art done by the legendary Alex Ross. The majority featured one superhero. Then in the corner, I saw Aquaman, with Atom and HawkMan. He had to share his canvas with two others. Why?

I am not criticizing the work of Ross. He is amazing. His art is so brilliant, detailed and lifelike. It's wild to see all of these superheroes together like this.

I only question Aquaman once agin getting disrespected. I really would like to know why Ross chose these three to share a painting. They have no connection.

Even with this slight of Aquaman, I highly recommend Alex Ross: Heroes & Villains. You don't have to be a fan of comic, superheroes or fantasy. At its core, it is magnificent art.

Aquaman and me in Libertyville, IL-August 2025.

Aquaman at Wizard World Chicago 2019

It's well-documented that I am a big fan of Aquaman. I had been in the minority on that for years. I always looked for Aquaman cosplayers at comic cons and I rarely found one. The release of the Aquaman movie helped raise awareness and popularity for the man from Atlantis, but Aquaman cosplayers were still few and almost always new school versions. Hey, I'll take any I can get though.

While doing research for last year's Wizard World Chicago, I came across a social media post about Aquaman by cosplayer Ahmed Arrieta. I contacted him and we agreed to meet at Wizard World.

Given the size and chaos of an event like Wizard World, meeting isn't always as easy as it sounds. We missed a couple opportunities the first two days. Then I was walking through the con floor and I saw a big group of cosplayers and there was Aquaman. I waited for the group to disperse and then I approached Ahmed.

He had the look perfectly. While I will always prefer old school Aquaman, I can appreciate any Aquaman and I certainly respect a great looking cosplay.

Cosplay has come such a long way on the comic con scene. At my first con about 20 years ago, there were some people dressed in costumes, but it was pretty much random and for their own entertainment. Now, it is a major part of any comic con. There are contests, panels, displays, booths and more.

I swear it was unintentional, but as i look at the picture below, I look like the lazy man Aquaman cosplayer. My shirt and shorts semi-match the Aquaman color scheme. Maybe I am a bit more Aquaman-focused than I even realize.

Check WizardWorld.com for all of the info and scheduling on their events. Also, follow Wizard World on Facebook for more frequent updates.

Aquaman and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2019.

Finding Mrs. Aquaman

Yesterday, I featured my encounter with a great version of Aquaman at Wizard World. Shortly after meeting him, I met his wife Mera.

Mera first appeared in an Aquaman comic in 2963. She was the Queen of the Sea, but eventually became Aquaman's wife. Originally more of a supporting character, writers developed and explored her powers, making er a superhero in her own right.

Fresh off of meeting the Aquaman cosplayer, I ran into this Mera cosplayer. She was very popular among convention attendees, posing for many photo requests. As I approached her, I explained my interest in Aquaman. Posing with a lovely cosplayer would be fun enough, but it was really cool because she was part of the Aquaman franchise.

As I wrote yesterday, prior to the Aquaman movie, finding one good Aquaman at Wizard World was a rare sight. The popularity of the movie has encouraged more cosplayers to pay homage to my favorite superhero and his universe. It is great to see and I hpe the trend continues.

Wizard World starts today in Tulsa, OK and there are still several more Wizard World events around the country through the end of the year. Go to WizardWorld.com for all of the info.

Mara and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2019.

Finding Aquaman at Wizard World

I have long lamented the lack of Aquaman cosplayers at comic cons. Usually, I am lucky if I find one and even luckier if it is a decent one. In the days prior to this year's Wizard World Chicago, I saw social media post from Ahmed Mauricio Forero Arrieta stating and showing his intentions of cosplaying as Aquaman there. I contacted him and we agreed to meet. I couldn't just leave it to chance with an Aquaman this good.

In all honesty, everyone knows I would prefer old school Aquaman, but since the movie has pumped more life into my favorite Superhero, I am much more accepting of the newer version. It's still Aquaman and at least he is getting respect and exposure.

Ahmed was very gracious and I appreciate his time and willingness to go along with my request. As a cosplayer (and a very good one), he is kept very busy at Wizard World. He is a great representative for Aquaman and I applaud his effort.

I wasn't done with Aquaman after this. Check back tomorrow for another brush with the Aquaman franchise. Two Aquaman stories from one Wizard World is very rare, but maybe the times are changing.

The next Wizard World is this weekend in Tulsa, OK. Other events this year include Columbus, OH, Madison, WI and more. Check WizardWorld.com for more info.

Ahmed Mauricio Forero Arrieta and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2019.

Aquaman at C2E2 2017

It was a close call at C2E2 2017.  Seeing an Aquaman at any comic con is a rarity and at C2E2, I was experiencing the usual Aquaman drought.  I had been immersed in pop culture madness for two full days and had yet to see any sign of Aquaman.

As usual, I saw many people dressed as Harley Quinn, The Joker, Batman, Wonder Woman, various people from The Walking Dead and almost every other character imaginable.  Some were so obscure people had to explain them.  Still, despite thousands of costumed fans, there was no sign of any Aquaman, my favorite superhero.

My luck changed just as I was exiting C2E2 for the day.  I saw the familiar green and orange in the distance and knew it had to be an Aquaman.  I raced over and got my picture with Aquaman.  This alone made the convention a success.

Many times, I have lamented the lack of Aquaman at these conventions.  It is frustrating because I know when they eventually make an Aquaman movie, he will gain popularity, but it will probably be the newer version of Aquaman.  I only hope the "cool" thing for fans to do then will be to appear as old school Aquaman.

Until then, I will continue searching for the rare Aquaman at comic cons.  I will also continue to get pictures and celebrate my victories.

Aquaman and me in Chicago, IL-April 2017.

Aquaman at Motor City Comic Con 2015

As I have well documented here, I am a huge fan of Aquaman.  I know that Aquaman is usually considered low in the Superhero rankings, but he is my guy.  Maybe that lack of appreciation makes me like him more.

At every comic con, my friends and I are always on the alert for any Aquaman sightings.  Believe me, they are rare.  Joker is hot right now.  For Superheroes, Superman is always popular, as is Batman and Spiderman.  Aquaman isn't even an afterthought.

Usually at every convention, there is that one guy who comes as Aquaman.  I have high praise for that guy.  He doesn't go with the current trends.  I have even more respect if he goes old school Aquaman.

At last year's Motor City Comic Con, we saw an Aquaman across the convention center.  It took some maneuvering, but we caught up to him and I scored the picture.

Making this one ever more rare was that this Aquaman was the first African-American Aquaman I have ever seen.  Major kudos to you, sir!

Aquaman and me in Novi, MI-May 2015.

Friendly Encounters: Aquaman and David Herro

Friendly Encounters is a weekly series featuring friends who have met celebrities.

David Herro is always up to something.  Whether it is hanging with wrestlers, hitting the gym or just coordinating #SuperFriends stuff, Herro always seems busy.  The really nice thing, too, is that he does most of this with his son, Kal.  They are quite a pair.

At C2E2 earlier this year, Herro took a page from my book and got a picture with Aquaman, old school Aquaman, too!  Nice catch DH!

I thought I was the only one who sought out Aquaman.  By the way, how did I miss this one?  I was at C2E2 every day and I walked all over the place many times.  Now, I am a little miffed at myself for missing him.  An Aquaman sighting is very rare.  Actually, it is much more rare than a David Herro sighting.

Aquaman and David Herro in Chicago, IL-March 2016.

I Found Aquaman's House!

A couple months ago, I spent time in my old neighborhood on the far south side of Chicago.  As my sister and I drove to my aunt's home (also the home where mom mom grew up), we passed a building which really caught my eye.

Back in the day, I am pretty sure it was a store, with living space in the back end for the store owners.  Now, I am not sure what the building is or if it is even in use, although I am guessing it is because the paint job looked pretty recent.

It is that paint job that grabbed my attention.  I suppose it could be just coincidence.  It's not exactly a common color theme.

I checked to see if perhaps it represented someone's nationality.  I checked country flags and found none with the yellow, orange and green combo.  That leaves me to my initial thought.

This building was painted as an homage to Aquaman, the most unsung of all Superheroes.  How could would that be if this is true?!

I am a big fan of Aquaman, but even I would not paint my house (or even one room) in the colors.  That doesn't stop me from admiring this building though.

The Aquaman House in Chicago, IL-April 2016.

Aquaman Spotted at C2E2 2014

Whenever I go to a comic con, among my many goals is seeing someone dressed as Aquaman.  I alwatys see lots of Spiderman, Superman, batman etc.  Aquaman is a rarity and when I find one, I always make sure to get a picture.

This year at C2E2, we were suffering from the usual Aquaman drought when Matt spied a new school version of Aquaman posing with some fans.  I prefer old school Aquaman, but I applaud any of the versions.

This particular Aquaman did a very good job with his costume.  He even carried the trident with him.  (Of course, that could also help him push through the massive crowds...but Aquaman would never do that.)

You might ask why I never dress as Aquaman.  That is simple.  I never dress as anyone.  I did have my new Aquaman Johngy shirt (courtesy of Contributor Extraordinaire Matt Parker).

I guess people dress as their favorite characters, but how many Jokers can we possibly see?  How about being original?  Let's see someone come as Egghead or Mr. Mxyzptlk.  I applaud the brave souls who come as Aquaman.  Whether they love the man of water or whether they want to be different, I will always support them and seek them.

There are many more comic cons on my slate for 2014.  I am hoping to see many more Aquaman fans.  I will also try to pose with each one of them.

Aquaman and me in Chicago, IL-April 2014.

Undead Aquaman?

I am not sure when the Zombie craze started.  I know it was strong in 2010, because I saw a lot of Zombie variations at the Motor City Comic Con that year.  I even saw a Zombie Aquaman!

Aquaman is the most underrated superhero.  He is also one of the least selected superheroes for people choosing to dress up as superheroes at these conventions.  I am usually happy if I see one Aquaman at every con.

In 2010, I saw the usual Aquaman (I believe his name is Scott) at the MCCC.  I got my picture and figured that would be the last Aquaman sighting.  Later, as we were leaving, I ran into another Aquaman, a version I had never seen before.

Zombie Aquaman!

Now this was cool and different.  Maybe if the writers of Aquaman thought of stuff like this, he might gain some popularity!  Maybe others would start seeing the coolness and potential in Aquaman.  Maybe I would see more Aquamen (and Aquawomen) at these conventions!

Zombie Aquaman and me in Novi, MI-May 2010.

Aquaman Johngy?

I have to admit I was tempted to grab the Aquaman costume when I saw it just hanging there at the 2012 Motor City Comic Con.  How many chances would I ever get to dress fully as Aquaman?

The costume looked so sad and lonely just hanging there.  Much like the actual Aquaman, the suit needed life breathed into it.  Sure I don't look like the traditional Auaman, but I would bring energy and gusto to the role.  Besides, the writers have changed several things about Aquaman over the years to raise interest.  Why not have a Johngy Aquaman.  I think it would be interesting.

I also have to laugh at the irony of a Robin costume hanging next to it.  Often these two superheroes are listed as the "most useless" superheroes.  I do not agree with that opinion.  Again, I just think Aquaman needs better writers to bring him back to the mainstream audience.

This brings me back to the Johngy Aquaman.  I am ready, willing and able to go anytime.  If the writers are willing to think outside of the box a little (or a lot), I would love to don the orange and green!

Robin and Aquaman costumes in Novi, MI-May 2012.

On the Beat with Aquaman at Wizard World 2012

As I recently promised, I got an interview with Aquaman at Wizard World.  Okay, maybe it isn't the real Aquaman, but he is the closest I will get at Wizard World.
I have seen Aquaman a few times at Wizard World in Chicago.  Last year I got a picture with him and he even cut a promo for Johngy's Beat.
This is just another example of the fun that can be had at Wizard World.  I have never seen a convention where so many of the attendees get into the act.  For some of them, it is more about the attendees, than the rest of the convention.  I know I am always looking out for Aquaman.
Unfortunately, as I have chronicled here many times, Aquaman lags in popularity behind the other superheroes.  So too at Wizard World, Aquaman lags behind other superheroes.  This is why I really like this guy.  He is definitely one of the biggest Aquaman fans.  He is also very good-natured about it and always willing to give a moment to Johngy's Beat.

On the Beat with Aquaman at Wizard World 2011

I have met Aquaman many times over the years at various conventions.  My most frequent meeting is at Motor City Comic Con where I usually meet the same Aquaman.

This is kind of a rarity, though.  Aquaman is not one of the popular "costumes" at these events.  You will always see classical characters like Batman and Wonder Woman.  You will also see plenty of currently popular characters like The Joker.  Aquaman tends to fall through the cracks.

At last year's Wizard World in Chicago, we were wrapping up one of the days when we ran into Aquaman near the exit...and it was old school Aquaman, too!  Of course, I snagged a picture with him.

I applaud his Aquaman tribute.  We didn't have time to really talk to him, but I wonder if he does it as a big fan or more to be different.  Either way is fine with me.  Anything to put Aquaman at the forefront is great!

I am happy to see at least one person buck the norm and go with something different.  Even better, he did not go over the top.  He just went simple and effective.

This year, I Talked to Aquaman and you will see that interview here very soon.

Aquaman and me in Rosemnt, IL-August 2011.

Meeting Aquaman Again

Over the years, I have met Aquaman a few times at the Motor City Comic Con.  It's one of the highlights for me.  He's a really nice guy.  When my camera failed last time, he waited patiently for me to regroup and take a picture with him, despite being in a hurry to get to one of the many activities at the show.
He is constantly being stopped for photos.  Oh sure, I know he dresses like that for the fun of it and the fans are part of it, but still, it does take patience to handle it.  I have never seen him refuse a photo request and I have never seen him rush anyone.
He is a yearly staple of my MCCC experience.  In 2012, I'll be looking for him as always.

Aquaman and me in Novi, MI-May 2011.

Paying Homage to the Aquaman Shrine

I am a huge fan of Aquaman, but I have to admit I am probably not the biggest fan.  That honor goes to Rob Kelly, Creator/Editor-in-Chief of the Aquaman Shrine.  The Aquaman Shrine is overflowing with everything Aquaman, including products, merchandise, artwork, reproductions and anything else you could possibly imagine related to Aquaman.  The site is amazing and I could spend hours daily just roaming around the various sections.
I wrote to Rob and applied for Friends of Aquaman (F.O.A.M.) based on my coverage of Aquaman here on my site.  To my pleasant surprise, Rob emailed back pretty quickly and presented me with my official certificate confirming me as an official FOAM member.  I couldn't be any prouder!

Aquaman to the Rescue?

When I was at Lerner Newspapers, I wrote a column on the most maligned superhero ever, Aquaman. I decried the fact that Aquaman had gone in and out of press, while other superheroes stayed relevant and even expanded their presence onto the big screen. As another insult, Aquaman writers gave him a harpoon for a hand in an effort to jazz up the character.
Recently, on the Howard Stern radio show, while staffer Steve Brandano gave a report on San Diego Comic Con, Stern mocked Aquaman saying that none of the attendees would want to be Aquaman if they could be any superhero. Then Stern stated that Aquaman was useless and couldn't do anything to help the water problem caused by the oil spill.
I was surprised to hear that from Stern, a noted superhero and comics fan. I would think the usually-creative Stern could see the potential in this for Aquaman. Stern fell victim to the same narrow-minded thinking which has caused the Aquaman character to stagnate while others flourish.
The BP oil spill could actually make a great story (and storyline) for Aquaman. It could show Aquaman actually solving world problems instead of just "telecommunicating with fish" as Stern mocked. Aquaman could be shown using his powers differently (perhaps even with a new twist).
I realize Stern's joking was just a throwaway addition to the Comic Con report, but still he dropped the ball on this one, the same way Aquaman's writers have dropped the ball. Am I the only one who sees the potential in Aquaman? Am I going to have to write the next chapter in the life of Aquaman?

Aquaman Spotted in Michigan

As my friends know all too well, I am a huge fan of Aquaman, the most maligned Superhero ever. I have also written about it here before.
The Motor City Comic Con is full of people dressing as various characters. I am always on the lookout for any Aquman (Aquamen?).
Luckily for me, the first person I saw at the 2010 MCCC was Aquaman. I immediately took advantage of the photo opportunity to digitally capture the moment with my favorite Superhero.
Please note, this is old-school Aquaman, the way it should be. I have spoken against the newer version of the man of water.

Aquaman and me in Novi, MI-May 2010.

Aquaman is THE Man!

I just learned that May 2 was Free Comic Book Day. It is always the first Saturday of May. On that day, participating comic book shops around the world give free comic books to people for just coming into the stores. I don't know if you get to pick out specific comic books, but I know which one I would pick.
Anyone who knows me, knows all too well that my favorite Superhero is Aquaman. I am not sure when my fandom began, but it has been this way as long as I can remember.
I often refer to him as the most maligned Superhero ever. In fact, Maxim magazine once listed Aquaman at #2 on the list of most useless Superheroes (behind Robin). This was an insult, but not really important enough to really incur my wrath.
In mid 2003, when I heard that the producers of Aquaman were changing Aquaman by giving him a harpoon in place of one hand, I wasn't happy. It's one thing for a silly magazine to insult Aquaman with so little respect for his abilities. It is entirely another for his own makers to have so little faith in the depths of Aquaman that they needed to 'spice up' the story by giving him a harpoon hand.
I might have mentioned this a couple times (or maybe a dozen) around the office and particularly to Laurie. Her response (to all of my rants) was for me to write a column.
Laurie had a keen sense for what her readers would like. Fortunately, I rewarded her faith by producing a column (with a lot of help from her) which resulted in a handful of calls/emails from readers.
I am really grateful that Laurie allowed (and encouraged) me to write. I am also pleased that she liked my writing, since I was a fan of her writing before I really even knew her.

My Aquaman guest column from the Lerner Times-October 9, 2003.

Aquaman

In March of 2008, I was at Motor City Comic Con in Novi, MI. Obviously, it was a comic book convention. From being there the previous year, I knew that many attendees dressed in costume for fun and prizes. This year, I kept my eyes open for my favorite Superhero, the much maligned and totally under appreciated Aquaman.

I had just about given up and was walking to the exit, when I ran into him. Now, unlike when I met Spiderman (see Spiderman post), I know this guy wasn't the real Aquaman. Still, I needed to capture the moment.

Aquaman and me at Motor City Comic Con in Novi, MI-March 2008.