Secret Origins #24

Secret Origins #24, published by DC Comics in March 1988, serves as a thematic entry in a series dedicated to retelling and refining the backstories of established comic book characters. This specific issue centers on the origin of the Creeper, a character originally created by Steve Ditko in the late 1960s. The issue was written by Denny O'Neil, who was instrumental in grounding DC's characters with more psychological depth during this era, and features artwork by Paris Cullins.

The narrative reimagines Jack Ryder's transformation into the Creeper, emphasizing the darker, more chaotic elements of the character's persona within the modern context of the late 1980s. The creative team aimed to reconcile the character's erratic, satirical roots with the grittier storytelling trends of the time. Upon its release, it was regarded by readers and critics as a thoughtful update that successfully modernized a somewhat eccentric member of the DC pantheon while maintaining the frenetic energy that had defined him since his debut.