Moon Knight’s Fourth Identity: A Hidden Gem Even Diehard Fans Might Overlook

When it comes to superheroes with complex identities, few rivals the Moon Knight. This enigmatic character navigates through not just one or two, but three main secret identities: Marc Spector, Jake Lockley, and Steven Grant. While many fans might assume these are the extent of his alter egos, there is an intriguing fourth identity that briefly emerged.

This unexpected fourth persona was unveiled in Moon Knight #22, penned by Jed McKay with artwork by Alessandro Cappuccio. Within this storyline, the previously abundant wealth of Steven Grant, which enabled Moon Knight to run his missions, is entirely siphoned off by a new villain known as Zodiac. As the funds vanish, questions arise about how Moon Knight manages to sustain the Midnight Mission and maintain his arsenal without financial backing.

Comic book panels: The Midnight Man Has Returned And Is Running Along Rooftops

Coincidentally, during this financial crisis, Moon Knight’s long-time adversary, the Midnight Man, makes his dramatic return, targeting corrupt criminals. While allies like Tigra express concern over this villain’s comeback, Moon Knight maintains an unusual calm. The twist surfaces when Tigra ultimately tracks down the Midnight Man and uncovers that he is actually Marc Spector’s new facade.

Moon Knight Assumes the Identity of the Midnight Man

Features from Moon Knight #22: As told by Jed McKay, Alessandro Cappuccio, Rachelle Rosenberg, and Cory Petit

Comic book panel: Tigra Unmasks The Midnight Man

The Midnight Man, originally known as Anton Mogart, is characterized by his remarkable thieving skills, which he deploys at the stroke of midnight, earning him his moniker. Despite being a minor adversary of Moon Knight, he frequently faced defeats, most notably due to running water. In their initial encounter, he was bested and fell into a river; although he survived, he suffered severe facial disfigurement from the waste he encountered. His significance further dwindled after teaming up with Bushman to eliminate Moon Knight, only to be swept away once more into the water.

Following the theft of his funds, Moon Knight is compelled to devise new strategies for income. Left with limited options, Marc Spector chooses to resurrect the Midnight Man’s identity. He rationalizes this decision by arguing that as Moon Knight, he cannot be seen committing robberies against criminals, as it would expose him and his operations. However, by adopting the established identity of a notorious thief, he can continue his mission effectively. Given the existence of previous Midnight Men, father and son, a third iteration hardly raised eyebrows.

The Implications of Moon Knight’s Identity Transition

Is the Midnight Man Set for a Comeback in Moon Knight’s Adventures?

Comic book panels: Marc Explains Why He Took Over The Midnight Man Identity

The essence of Moon Knight’s narrative is intricately tied to his multifaceted identity. As he juggles the personas of Marc Spector, Jake Lockley, and Steven Grant, each identity unveils different facets of his character. This interplay of identities adds layers to Moon Knight’s storytelling. Thus, it is not surprising that in dire circumstances, Moon Knight opted to don the mantle of an old villain, enabling him to operate as a Robin Hood-like character.

For those eager to explore these unfolding dynamics, Moon Knight #22 is currently available from Marvel Comics!

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