Marvel Comic’s classic character Thor will be a woman in upcoming comic book editions. The company announced the surprise move during an episode of The View.
“The new Thor continues Marvel’s proud tradition of strong female characters like Captain Marvel, Storm, Black Widow and more. And this new Thor isn’t a temporary female substitute — she’s now the one and only Thor, and she is worthy!”
Wil Moss, Marvel editor
In the comic book timeline, the Norse God Thor was stripped of his powers by his father, Odin. After his son redeems himself, Odin puts Thor’s power in his hammer, Mjolnir.
The magic weapon is engraved with the words, “Whosoever holds this hammer, if he be worthy, shall possess the power of Thor.” Marvel has not said whether or not they will change the words on the hammer, but in previous editions the weapon has been picked up and wielded by female characters like Storm of the X-Men and Wonder Woman.
The move will create Marvel’s eighth female lead character. The company has said that Thor will remain a God and will not be called a Goddess.
Marvel has not revealed a release date for the upcoming series, which will be written by Aaron and illustrated by Russell Dauterman, other than to say it will hit shelves in October.
The change will likely not affect the movie franchise.