Doctor Fate (Khalid Nassour)

Doctor Fate
Khalid Nassour as depicted in Batman vs. Robin #3 (February 2023). Art by Simone Di Meo.
Publication information
Publisher	DC Comics
First appearance	Convergence: Aquaman #2 (July, 2015)
Created by	Paul Levitz Sonny Liew
In-story information
Alter ego	Khalid Kent Nassour[1]
Species	Human (comics) Homo Magi (select media)
Place of origin	Brooklyn, New York
Team affiliations	Justice League Justice League Dark Justice Society of America Lords of Order
Partnerships	Kent Nelson (mentor) Kirk Langstrom Stitch (apprentice)
Notable aliases	Aliases: Fate[1] Kent[1] Young Fate Khalid Nelson[1] Epithets: Son of Pharaohs[1] Child of the Blood[1] Blood of the Pharaohs[1]
Abilities	Immortality Expertise in magic, spell-casting, and occult; mystic artifacts (Helmet of Fate, Cloak of Destiny, Amulet of Anubis) bolsters and grants various additional magical powers dependent on patronage. Skilled physician Skilled hand-to-hand combatant Fourth wall awareness
Altered in-story information for adaptations to other media
Team affiliations	Sentinels of Magic
Partnerships	Zatanna (mentor)

Dr. Khalid Kent Nassour (Arabic: نصّور خالد) is a superhero featured in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by Paul Levitz and artist Sonny Liew, the character first appeared in Aquaman: Convergence #2 (July, 2015). Being the eighth character to adopt the Doctor Fate codename, he is notably the second-longest enduring version of Doctor Fate and the first Muslim^[2] character in DC Comics to headline a solo series.^[3]

The character made his initial debut as a young, Brooklyn born-college graduate of Egyptian and White American heritage. While aspiring to become a physician, Khalid is chosen by ancient Egyptian deities and archangels to be the next bearer of the Doctor Fate mantle. As Doctor Fate, a legacy hero tasked with safeguarding the universe against supernatural menaces, Khalid's first major mission involved saving the world from Anubis, the god of the dead, who sought to surpass his divine status. The character is guided and supported by Nabu^[1] and is later mentored by the original Doctor Fate, Kent Nelson, who is revealed to be his great-uncle.^[4]

Since his debut in 2015 and the cancellation of his ongoing series, the character has been prominently featured in various titles, notably Justice League Dark. Within this series, the character continues his training and assists the team in opposing Nabu and the Lords of Order, who serve as the initial antagonists. In subsequent storylines, Khalid officially assumes the role of Doctor Fate within the broader DC Universe, establishing himself as one of DC Comics' most formidable practitioners of magic. He becomes a full-time member of both the Justice League and Justice League Dark. Khalid plays a pivotal role in multiple storylines. In recent depictions, the character is portrayed as both a graduate of medical school and the present-day Doctor Fate within the Justice Society of America.

Thus far, the character has made few appearances in media. He would make his first media appearance in the animated series Young Justice, voiced by Usman Ally. He would also appear as a DLC summon character in Scribblenauts Unmasked: A DC Comics Adventure.

Publication history[edit]

After the conclusion of the Convergence limited series in June 2015 and the start of the "DC Rebirth" line, DC launched a new Doctor Fate ongoing series, written by Paul Levitz and drawn by Sonny Liew. The title focused on the newest Doctor Fate, an Egyptian-American medical student named Khalid Nassour. According to Levitz, Dan Didio and Jim Lee wanted a different feel from the original incarnation when Gardner Fox created him during the Golden Age of Comic Books. Levitz said the Egyptian connection of the original is what fascinated him the most.

So looking at the kinds of diversity we have today, and remembering a bunch of my conversations with Egyptian Americans, I just thought, what if a person who gets the helmet this time, in this world, is an Egyptian American young man?^[5]

And for a visual look, the guys really wanted something fresh - not the standard superhero approach that's been going on for the last few years. I liked Sonny Liew's work years ago on My Faith in Frankie, and ran into him in Singapore a few years ago when I got the chance to be the guest of honor at a convention there. And I've watched his work and stayed aware of it in the years since.^[5]

The series ran for 18 issues from June 2015 to November 2016.^[6] In the series, Khalid's origin story revolves around him coming to terms with his destiny to oppose the dark god Anubis, having been chosen by the Egyptian gods (Bastet notably) and Nabu himself as the next sorcerer in line to bear the mantle "Doctor Fate". Thrusted into conflict with Anubis, Khalid eventually embraces his destiny and pharaonic ancestry, defeating Anubis in the process and becoming the new Doctor Fate.^[1] The series also featured stories involving Khalid using his powers to defusing riots at the United Nations while balancing his life as a medical student. It is also revealed his mother, Elizabeth Nassour, to be the niece of Kent Nelson, who he becomes an apprentice under.^[4][7]

In 2018, DC launched a second Justice League Dark series written by James Tynion IV starring a new roster led by Wonder Woman. In this roster, Khalid was revealed to be an eventual new member of the Justice League as the lead Doctor Fate instead of Kent Nelson. The character also was redesigned with a new Doctor Fate costume.^[8]

While the original 2018 series was cancelled in 2020, the Justice League Dark series was instead re-purposed as a backup issue to the mainstream Justice League title, the backup issue written by award-winning author Ram V featuring a new storyline with Khalid remaining a reoccurring member of the Justice League Dark subdivision.^[9] Khalid would also appear in several title crossovers such as Superman, Teen Titans Academy, and The Flash.

In late-2022, it was revealed that Khalid was slated to appear in the upcoming Justice of Society of America relaunch title, with Geoff Johns stating his role will include the exploration of the Doctor Fate as a legacy character while Khalid's story and role will act as a continuation of Ram V's Justice League Dark.^[10]

Fictional character biography[edit]

DC You[edit]

Origin: The Blood Price[edit]

The Doctor Fate storyline titled "The Blood Price" reveals the superhero origin of the character. Khalid is portrayed as the son of an Egyptian physician-turned-taxi cab driver, Mohammed Nassour, and an American archaeologist, Elizabeth Nassour. He attends medical school with his girlfriend, Shaya Halim, aspiring to follow in his father's footsteps as a physician. During a cataclysmic storm at the Brooklyn Museum, Khalid encounters a statue of Bastet, an ancient Egyptian goddess. Bastet chooses Khalid as the next Doctor Fate due to his royal pharaonic lineage, granting him magical abilities and designating him as a champion for the Egyptian gods. Khalid's powers manifest when he saves a child from danger, and he is given the fabled Helmet of Fate, known as the Helmet of Thoth in the story. Bastet informs him about the unnatural weather caused by Anubis, the Egyptian god of death, who seeks to expand his influence. Khalid is tasked with stopping Anubis and saving the world. As Khalid adjusts to his newfound powers, he must balance his personal life and superhero responsibilities. He communicates with Nabu, a spirit within the helmet who identifies himself as a servant of Thoth. Initially hesitant to embrace his role as a hero, Khalid gradually becomes more committed to opposing Anubis. Seeking guidance, he researches methods of communing with the gods and receives advice from Nabu and a Sphinx. Anubis targets Khalid's father, Mohammed, while Khalid battles with his own doubts. Khalid intervenes to save his father but is confronted by Anubis, who offers a deal: restoring Mohammed's sight in exchange for the helmet. Khalid agrees, but Anubis blinds Khalid instead, subjecting him to the "blood price" of being tormented in the Underworld. However, Khalid's sight is restored when he wears the helmet. In subsequent encounters, Khalid battles Anubis and is initially defeated before being dragged into the afterlife. Thoth intervenes, denouncing Anubis' overstepping and providing Khalid with a staff. With the combined power of the staff, his pharaonic bloodline, and invoking the authority of Atum, Khalid gains the upper hand and defeats Anubis. This victory marks the beginning of his ongoing responsibilities as Doctor Fate.^[1]

Early adventures as Doctor Fate[edit]

In subsequent storylines, Khalid faces the challenges of balancing his life as Doctor Fate with his personal endeavors. He struggles with his limited knowledge of the supernatural and the ambiguous guidance of Nabu, the Lord of Order. However, Khalid receives support and counsel from his father and various archangels who approve of his actions. Bastet also covertly assists Khalid, safeguarding his secrets and helping him navigate potential personal issues. Khalid utilizes his abilities to repair the damages caused by Anubis and becomes involved in quelling protests at the United Nations Plaza, which take a dangerous turn due to supernatural forces, endangering his activist best friend, Akila. Khalid saves Akila from the police and, at her suggestion, works to rescue other detained protestors. He discovers that the protestors were taken to a secret jail beneath the Consulate in New York City by supernatural ghosts. Investigation leads Khalid to an Egyptian general who employed necromancy to resurrect Julius Caesar's ghost using the dagger that killed him. The general aimed to suppress dissent against his rule, both within and outside his country. Khalid frees Caesar and his men from the general's control, apprehending the general for his crimes.^[4] Subsequently, Khalid is visited by Kent Nelson, who is revealed to be his mother's uncle, making him Khalid's granduncle. Under Kent's guidance, Khalid delves deeper into the understanding of magic and its consequences. They also confront the god Osirios and Clothoris, a fate weaver, in their ongoing adventures.^[7]

New Justice[edit]

Years later following DC Rebirth, Khalid re-emerges in the 2017 Justice League Dark series, first appearing in the "Last Age of Magic" storyline. Continuing his apprenticeship under Kent Nelson, Khalid is discovered to have been trapped inside a vase. The Justice League Dark seeks Nelson's counsel to gain insights into the Otherkind, supernatural creatures that thrive on magic and their connection to the newly formed Tree of Wonder. During the encounter, Ragman inadvertently shatters the vase, briefly releasing Khalid from his confinement. In that fleeting moment, Khalid manages to warn certain members of the Justice League Dark about Nabu, who had taken control of his mentor's body for several weeks and imprisoned Khalid himself. However, the vase swiftly reassembles, ensnaring Khalid once again.^[11]

Justice League Dark: The Lords of Order (2018)[edit]

Through a series of revealing flashbacks, it comes to light that prior to his imprisonment, Khalid had witnessed a heated argument between Nabu and Nelson concerning the appropriate course of action regarding the resurgence of the Tree of Wonder and the threat posed by the Otherkind. One night, while attempting to sleep, Khalid hears his mentor sleepwalking and follows him, unaware that Nabu has taken control of Nelson's body and compelled him to wear the Helmet of Fate. Venturing into the Realm of Order, Khalid eavesdrops on Nabu and the other Lords of Order, discovering their plan to destroy the Sphere of the Gods and magic itself to starve the Otherkind to death. Khalid passionately implores the Lords of Order to reconsider their plan, but Nabu, driven by his malevolence, attempts to kill Khalid. Nelson's indomitable will intervenes, preventing Nabu from harming his grand-nephew and instead elects to trap him in a vase.^[11]

Following the events of The Witching Hour, Man-Bat retrieves the vase containing Khalid and brings it back to the headquarters of the Justice League Dark. There, using magic for the first time, Khalid casts a spell to free himself. Teaming up with Man-Bat, Khalid journeys to Myrra, where he aligns himself with the resistance movement led by Blue Devil and Detective Chimp in their battle against Nabu and the other Lords of Order. As their efforts teeter on the brink of failure, Wonder Woman and Zatanna arrive, empowered by Mordru, who temporarily bestows upon them and other members of the Justice League Dark the powers of the Lords of Chaos. This newfound power enables them to confront the Lords of Order. In the ensuing conflict, Khalid manages to bind Nabu, granting Jason Blood the opportunity to employ the Demon Three, which frees Nelson's body from Nabu's control. As the tide of battle turns in favor of the Justice League Dark, Nabu is left to fend off their forces single-handedly. Through the combined efforts of Khalid, Nelson, Blood, the Phantom Stranger, and Zatanna, Nabu is ultimately imprisoned once again within the helmet, rendering him unable to wield his powers without a host. In the aftermath of the intense confrontation, Wonder Woman approaches Nelson about joining the Justice League Dark as Doctor Fate, recognizing the significance of the figure as a symbol of power despite Nabu's recent transgressions against the magical community. However, Nelson declines the offer to assume the mantle of Doctor Fate, and while he suggests Khalid as a potential successor, Khalid himself rejects the idea. Both Nelson and Khalid agree to become members of the Justice League Dark, acting as wise advisors behind the scenes while forgoing the burdensome responsibilities of Doctor Fate due to the inherent risks involved.^[11]

Justice League Dark: The Witching War[edit]

As a member of the Justice League Dark, Khalid becomes involved in a conflict with the Injustice League Dark, a team of supervillains led by a transformed Circe. Empowered by the forces of Hecate, Circe has recruited notable magical villains such as Klarion the Witch Boy, Papa Midnite, Floronic Man, and Solomon Grundy to her cause. With the ability to absorb magical power sources and rewrite the "rules of magic" and reality itself, Circe poses a formidable threat. The team struggles to combat her and her newfound allies, losing Swamp Thing in the process. As Circe's plan reaches its culmination, she seizes control of Wonder Woman's body and enlists the aid of Eclipso. In this dire situation, Khalid once again dons the Helmet of Fate, tipping the scales in the battle. His intervention provides Wonder Woman with the opportunity to negotiate with Circe, resulting in Circe's imprisonment within her own realm, in which the power of Hecate resides within Wonder Woman. Following these events, Khalid assumes the mantle of Doctor Fate permanently, becoming the sole wielder of its power. Nabu, moved by Khalid's heartfelt words regarding his significance, agrees to relinquish all control and authority over Doctor Fate to him.^[12]

Justice League Dark: A Costly Trick of Magic[edit]

In the final storyline of the Justice League Dark title, Khalid helps Justice League Dark restore order among the elemental forces using a ritual known as the "Parliament of Life". While Nabu attempted to strong arm the representatives of the forces to no avail due to feeling as though humanity is doomed, Khalid counters their claims stating that humanity's very belief in them makes them. Later, Khalid alongside the Justice League Dark would battle the Upside Down Man, the leading force behind the Otherkind while having to believe their magic is able to defeat their foe. Khalid is incapacitated in the ensuing battle, causing Nelson to don the helm for a final time and sacrifice himself to unleash a spell powerful enough to hurt the Upside Down Man entity at the cost of his body. The effort is successful and eventually leads to Upside Down Man's defeat by Zatanna, who lets him absorb her and destroys the majority of his presence and imprison him inside of her in a far more weakened form. Although Upside-Down Man was defeated, the effort made left the Helm of Fate depleted of power, with Khalid unable to contact Nabu and tap into its previous powers.^[13]

Infinite Frontier[edit]

During the Infinite Frontier, Khalid would make various appearance throughout various titles, being billed as a member of both the Justice League and Justice League Dark as the current and sole incarnation of Doctor Fate, fully succeeding Kent Nelson.^[13][14]

Justice League (2018) backup and other stories (2020-2022)[edit]

In the "Mythological" Superman storyline (taking place at some point prior to A Costly Trick of Magic storyline), Khalid appears as Doctor Fate and teams up with Superman to battle the supernatural entity known as Xanadoth, the reputed former ruler of the Lords of Chaos whose power and ambition was feared commonly by both the Lords of Order, Lords of Chaos, and the Lords of Eternal Balance. She is eventually defeated with the combined effort of Superman, Doctor Fate, and Nabu and is banished off the plane temporarily.^[15]

Khalid also appears in the Teen Titans Academy "X Marks the Spot" storyline, it is revealed that one of the Teen Titans Academy student, Stitch, is actually Doctor Fate's newest apprentice whom had since enlisted into the academy to help her understand what it means to be a hero.^[16]

Justice League Dark: The Great Wickedness (2022)[edit]

In the Justice League Dark storyline, Khalid works to restore the Helmet of Fate's power, enlisting the scientific help of Kirk Langstrom. Their efforts offer limited success and a power to see into the future, Khalid seeing the Tower of Fate falling before a powerful wizard, whom is revealed to be DC Comic's version of Merlin. He also sees several other visions, learning of a woman from a different time known as Elnara Roshtu, also known as the Eternal Knight. A new entity has also inhabited the Helm of Fate in place of Nabu, whom is eventually revealed to be Hauhet, an Egyptian goddess and ally of Nabu whose presence in the helm disturbs Khalid from her more ambiguous intentions. The visions plaguing Khalid, granted by Hauhet, are occurrences that supposedly will precede the series of events depicted in DC Comic's Future State that will cause the fall of the Tower of Fate, Merlin's control of the magical forces of Earth, and the recruiting of powerful magicians such as Jason Blood, The Enchantress, and Arion as his subordinate magical knights.

Due to the manipulations of Yuga Khan, father of Darkseid, the normally heroic wizard is cast into a villainous role as he attempts to control the world of magic through a series of pawns and gambits of controlling magic. When Khalid and Justice League Dark find themselves pitted against Merlin, he proves to be a powerful and guile foe. During their hunt for him, they are assisted by other related magicians and warriors such as re-introduced character Randhir Singh, newly recruited Elnara Roshtu (Eternal Knight), Mister E, and Aquaman. Merlin works to re-trace the past sites of ancient Atlantis with intent of location the Atlantean font of power that allows him to draw into the magical reserve known as Darkworld, an extra-dimensional source of old Atlantean magic connected to the Great Darkness and the origin point of ancient Atlantean deities. While Justice League Dark assists Aquaman and the Silent School under the belief Merlin is attempting to control a form of magic considered untameable, the fulcrum of his plan is revealed that instead of seeking to control a force he knows he cannot control, he instead will control it through a mind controlled pawn with a natural connection to it long thought dead, a revived Arion. Justice League Dark and Atlantis suffer heavy losses as the team is forced to contain the threat of the Upside-Down Man, whose influence is revealed to linger inside Zatanna, and the damage created by Merlin's opening of Darkworld in Atlantis. With no strategy to effectively counter Merlin, Mister E appears and reveals to them of how Merlin's turn of evil came to be, having witnessed it backwards from outside space-time. Khalid and Zatanna would establish a secret pact with Mister E unbeknownst to the other Justice League Dark members, agreeing to trade in a portion of Merlin's soul containing his childish personality responsible for shaping him to being an eventual hero over his callous, cold front, for the magical artifact on Merlin's persons that would enable him to murder magicians. Reluctantly, Zatanna forges the pact in blood with Mister E, with Khalid cautious at the potential sacrifice.^[17]

The Flash: Eclipsed (2022)[edit]

In the Justice League Dark/Flash crossover storyline, Khalid teleports Wally into a dimension called the "Second Dimension" as the pair race to find a way to Gemworld by battling demons while he and Flash are in a weakened state. The pair are able to survive due to Doctor Fate's magical powers allowing him to breaking the fourth wall, leading them to Gemworld, with members of Justice League Dark having awaited for Khalid and Flash with Amethyst. Unable to pursue Eclipso, Flash and the Justice League Dark team turn to Dark Opal for assistance despite his history as a criminal upon Amethyst's suggestion. It is then revealed that Flash is immune to Eclipso's influence, though the reasons are unknown. As the team are led by Dark Opal to Eclipso's whereabouts, the team comes under mind control of Eclipso, save Flash and Dark Opal. The two incapacitate the team and seemingly team up until Dark Opal betrays Flash to Eclipso to obtain his freedom. Flash is saved by both his children, whom sense his distress through the Speed Force and are able to transport themselves along with Animal Girl, the daughter of Animal Man. Dark Opal once more offers aid to the Flash, this time reasoning the fact that Eclipso is too dangerous. Using a magic glaive created in heaven, Flash uses it to defeat Eclipso while his children and Dark Opal hold off against members of Justice League Dark, including Doctor Fate. With Eclipso defeated, the Spectre reclaims the magical glaive and reveals to Wally that the immunity Doctor Fate mentioned was given to him by The Presence before Doctor Fate sends Wally, his children, and Animal Girl back to Earth.^[18]

Justice League: Leagues of Chaos (2022)[edit]

During the Justice League/Justice League Dark crossover, both Zatanna and Doctor Fate mysteriously receive premonitions of the future depicting Black Adam having destroyed the Justice League while under possession, a fact that worries the team. While they work to trace who is sending them the visions, the culprit (revealed to be Xanadoth) acts to make Black Adam her new vessel. Meanwhile, accompanied by Etrigan, Khalid calls upon Nabu, who reappears to him once more briefly to reveal Xanadoth to be whom sent the visions to Zatanna and Khalid while remarking that any interference from other Lords of Chaos and Order will serve to empower her and that he is unable to aid them. Shortly after, Khalid is contacted by Zatanna and Madame Xanadu and arrives to confront a Black Adam-controlled Xanadoth. However, all four heroes are defeated by Xanadoth, who claims the Helmet of Fate and kidnaps Madame Xanadu. After regaining consciousness, Khalid works with the rest of Justice League Dark and the Justice League to find a solution to defeating Xanadoth, the former team and Khalid deciding to forcibly summon Nabu on the physical plane. While implore him for questions, Nabu resists and eventually frees himself while taking Naomi, sensing her power to be of use. When Xanadu uses her magic to signal the Justice League, Khalid arrives alongside many other heroes, including John Constantine and Zatanna, and manages to retrieve his helm and exorcise Xanadoth from Black Adam with their combined might. Xanadoth is ultimately defeated due to the Justice League and Justice League Dark's combined assault when Naomi's powers are revealed to heighten magic.^[14]

Dark Crisis on Infinite Earths (2022)[edit]

Khalid would appear in the Dark Crisis storyline as Doctor Fate, with Superman (Jon Kent) having previously urged him his magical powers to find the missing members of the Justice League. Unable to find them on any plane of existence, Superman concludes that the core members of the Justice League were killed.^[19] It is later revealed that Doctor Fate is among the members of the newly reformed Justice Society of America.^[20]

Lazarus Planet (2022-2023)[edit]

In the prelude within the pages of Batman and Robin, it is revealed that the antagonist of the storyline, the Devil Nezha (loosely based upon the Chinese mythological entity) usurped the Helmet of Fate in an attempt to give him an edge against his adoptive son, Red Boy (who is known as King Fire Bull in the story). Eventually, the helm is broken in battle and falls into the Lazarus Pit, causing worldwide storms that empower anyone exposed to them and alter existing abilities. While the Helm of Fate is prominent, Khalid is notably absent from the story.^[21]

In the Lazarus Planet event, Mary Marvel notes that nobody has been able to contact Doctor Fate.^[22] It is later revealed that Nezha had previously bested Khalid and trapped him within his subconscious. Dreamer contacts him, but is unable to free him and speaks to Hauhet. She reveals that even without the helm, he maintains a deep connection to it but cannot be awaken until the Helm itself is found.^[23]

Dawn of DC[edit]

Following the Dark Crisis and Lazarus Planet, various changes came to the character as his appearances in the Justice Society of America title acts as a continuation of his appearances in Ram V's Justice League Dark backup issues;^[10] despite Lazarus Planet running concurrent to the Justice Society of America title (which preceded the event itself) and the character's status during the event, Justice Society of America establishes that the events within the book takes place some time after the events of Lazarus Planet.^[24] The character is also established to have completed medical school, having then began working as a intern doctor.^[25]

The title similarly reveals the title's story takes place one year after the events of Khalid's Doctor Fate series,^[25] conflicting with James Tynion IV's 2017 run on Justice League Dark having previously established events onward to have taken place at least over one year after the series, the story mentioning the character having been trapped in a vase by Nabu (as revealed in the Lords of Order storyline) for much of that duration before being set free.^[12] This was also mention during Infinite Frontier in Brian Michael Bendis's Superman/Doctor Fate crossover in 2021.^[15]

Justice Society of America: The New Golden Age (2022-2023)[edit]

In the comic book one-shot "The New Golden Age", Khalid lives in an apartment while working as an intern doctor and fulfilling his duties as Doctor Fate. However, Detective Chimp, believing that Khalid's responsibilities as Doctor Fate take precedence, persuades him to quit his medical internship without his consent. Meanwhile, Khalid seeks assistance from Deadman to understand the intentions of Hauhet, the new guiding patron of the Helmet of Fate. He receives a vision of the future, warning him about an unknown assailant targeting various Doctor Fates across different timelines. This assailant proceeds to kill members of the Justice Society of America in these alternate timelines. The warning is conveyed through different Doctor Fates, including a younger version of Kent Nelson.^[25]

Within the Justice Society series, in the midst of these events, Helena Wayne, a visitor from a potential future, joins Doctor Fate, Detective Chimp, and Deadman.^[26] Khalid experiences visions that reveal the origin of Per Degaton, the previously unidentified assailant. Per Degaton targets members of the JSA, starting with the Doctor Fate of their respective timelines. With inquiries about a time-traveling snow globe in Helena's possession and its connection to Doctor Fate, as well as the future Catwoman's insistence on Khalid's assistance, Khalid discloses Helena's existence to the current JSA. Together, they work on devising a plan to lure Degaton. However, their efforts are interrupted when Degaton suddenly appears in their headquarters, prepared to eliminate them.^[24] During the confrontation, Degaton unleashes his enhanced powers in an attempt to kill the team. However, Helena discovers that both she and Khalid are immune to Degaton's time precognition due to the powers granted by the Helmet of Fate and the Snowglobe, respectively. With Helena's revelation and inspiration, Khalid uses his newfound knowledge to send Degaton back to his proper time. He then regroups with the Justice Society of America (JSA). Khalid's JLD (Justice League Dark) teammates reach out to Madame Xanadu, who explains Degaton's sinister plan. Degaton aims to utilize a ritual previously devised by Salem the Witch Girl, a future version of Kent Nelson's former apprentice displaced from the timestream. His ultimate goal is to replace the JSA with alternate timeline versions of himself. Understanding the significance of the Huntress's Snowglobe in defeating Degaton, the JSA and JLD intercept Helena as she rushes to Gotham to prevent her father's death in her future.^[27] They engage in battle with Degaton once again. Taking charge of the situation, Khalid seizes control of the Snowglobe and employs it to summon past and future iterations of the JSA, moments before Degaton originally killed them. Manipulating time, Khalid successfully thwarts Degaton's plans. With Kent and Sofia by his side, Khalid uses the Snowglobe to imprison Degaton, with assistance from Stargirl and her team. Together, they seal Degaton's fate and safeguard the timeline.^[28]

Subsequently, Khalid encounters Salem the Witch Girl, Kent Nelson's former apprentice who is upset about Kent's passing and Khalid becoming the new Doctor Fate. Salem is initially reluctant to accept Khalid's assistance in breaking her curse. Nonetheless, Khalid joins Batman, Salem, Huntress, and other Justice Society members in an effort to recruit new members from Huntress's future timeline, many of whom were former adversaries of the Justice Society. During their attempt to subdue Solomon Grundy without causing harm, Salem unintentionally transforms him into a skeleton instead of restoring his humanity as dhr intended. Later, Khalid resolves to bring Salem to Limbo Town to help lift her curse. However, Salem attacks Khalid, expressing her resistance to returning to Limbo Town and asserting her belief that she is the rightful successor to the Doctor Fate mantle. Khalid chooses to guide Salem towards finding a new path and entrusts the Justice Society with her care, creating distance between himself and Salem before teleporting her away from the Tower. Shortly after, Khalid receives a vision suggesting that Grundy can be saved by Hauhet and is visited by members of the Legion of Substitute Heroes who seek his assistance in the 30th Century, namely Rainbow Girl, Animal Lad, and Stone Boy.^[29]

Knight Terrors (2023)[edit]

In the tie-in issue of Wonder Woman's "Knight Terrors" storyline, Khalid makes a cameo appearance. The primary focus of the event revolves around the villain Insomnia and his quest to obtain the Nightmare Stone. With his own formidable powers, Insomnia casts a potent nightmare spell, enveloping the world in a realm of fear and dread. Within Constantine's own nightmare in the tie-in issue, while under the influence of Insomnia's spell, Khalid is among the members of the Justice League Dark.

Characterization[edit]

As Doctor Fate, the character represents a legacy hero who inherits the mantle but retains agency within it, differing from the Kent Nelson version. A prevalent theme in the character's story is their transformative journey as a hero and their quest to master their magical abilities. In earlier publications and depictions, the character is portrayed as a novice grappling with the immense power of the helm and striving to strike a balance between their personal life, aspirations of becoming a physician, and to become a more adept hero.^[30]

In later depictions, the character evolves into a more seasoned hero who completes his training but continues to shoulder the overwhelming responsibilities associated with being Doctor Fate.^[31] He is alternatively portrayed as a trained Doctor Fate, considered to be among the most formidable agents of the Lords of Order and practitioners of magic in the DC Universe, rivaling notable magicians such as Zatanna.^[17][32] Khalid serves as a mystic consultant,^[15] a protector against evil supernatural forces,^[33][34] and utilizes his medical expertise to assist others.^[15]

Characteristics[edit]

When designing the character, Khalid was designed with a specific focus on the Egyptian aspect of the Doctor Fate mythology. Levitz incorporated elements of bi-racial heritage into Khalid's character, blending Egyptian and White American backgrounds. This approach aimed to emphasize the character's connection to the Egyptian origins of the Doctor Fate legacy. Levitz drew inspiration from iconic characters such as Spider-Man and Doctor Strange, particularly influenced by his collaborations with Steve Ditko throughout his career. Khalid, like these characters, is portrayed as a young individual burdened with significant responsibilities, embarking on a journey of self-discovery within a world reminiscent of Doctor Strange's mystical realm. Notably, Khalid's character was depicted as a medical student, distinguishing him from traditional college-aged superheroes. Specifically, he was portrayed as approximately twenty-two years old during the 2015 Doctor Fate series.^[5][30]

Regarding Khalid's rise to superhero status, Sika A. Dogbovie-Mullins, an author from Mixed-Race Superheroes, expressed the opinion that his mixed-race heritage does not serve as the primary catalyst for his transformation into a superhero. Instead, Khalid's heroic journey is linked to his lineage and the concept of a "divine right of kings," aligning with a Chosen One archetype. Unlike iconic American superheroes like Batman or Superman who fight for truth, justice, and the American way, Khalid is chosen to fight for truth, justice, and the "(ancient) Egyptian ways."^[35]

Design[edit]

In illustrating Khalid's physical appearance, artist Sonny Liew focused on representing his heritage through physical attributes such as hair, nose shape, and skin tone. Unlike conventional superheroes, Khalid was depicted with a more average physique, diverging from the muscular physiques often associated with superhero characters. Over time, Khalid's appearance in subsequent comic book series within the DC Comics universe began to portray him with a more toned physique.^[19][16][32]

As Doctor Fate, the character has been depicted wearing distinctive costumes through his publication history. In the 2015 Doctor Fate series, the character initially wore contemporary clothing comprising a blue hoodie and jeans while donning the Helmet of Fate and Amulet of Thoth. Originally, the intention was for the character to gradually acquire pieces of the original Doctor Fate costume over time within the series. However, due to the positive reception of the contemporary design, editorial decided to maintain the character's modern appearance.^[1] During the DC Rebirth initiative, the character underwent a design change during the second story arc of the second Justice League Dark series. The revised design features a dark blue jumpsuit, a combination of a golden or yellow belt and loin cloth, a golden cape secured by the Amulet of Anubis, and golden or white-colored sneakers. This design is notable for incorporating the classic colors associated with Doctor Fate, blending elements of ancient Egyptian aesthetics with contemporary American attire.^[12] While the character's default appearance usually consists of a his attire from the Justice League Dark series, he is occasionally depicted wearing the same outfit associated with modern renditions of Kent Nelson. This alternative attire typically includes a blue jumpsuit, golden gloves, golden boots, and a golden belt. In some instances, the presence of the Amulet of Anubis is accompanied by a Usekh collar, which also holds a golden cape, while in other depictions, the collar and amulet may be absent.^[36][19]

Relationships with characters[edit]

Nabu[edit]

During the Doctor Fate series in 2015, significant differences were observed in the relationship between Nabu and Khalid compared to the Kent Nelson incarnation of the Doctor Fate character. Sonny Liew deliberately altered Nabu's role, transforming him from an overbearing presence to a guiding spirit akin to a GPS system. Sonny also drew a comparison between Nabu's role and the character J.A.R.V.I.S. from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the fictional artificial intelligence featured in the Iron Man and Avengers films. However, due to Nabu's spiritual origins and association with Thoth, the Egyptian deity, his guidance tends to be more enigmatic, requiring Khalid to navigate and comprehend the workings of the Helmet of Fate, referred to as the Helm of Thoth in the series, largely on his own.^[30]

In subsequent appearances following the Doctor Fate series, Nabu's role undergoes slight changes. He is no longer depicted as a servant of Thoth but assumes the position of the primary patron of the Helmet of Fate. Notably, Nabu reveals a preference for Khalid, even when their goals are at odds, and holds him in higher regard than Kent Nelson, often manipulating the latter. Following the events of the "Lords of Order" storyline within Justice League Dark, Nabu becomes reliant on a permanent bearer and cannot operate independently.^[37] In a subsequent storyline, after Khalid admonishes Nabu for his betrayal of former allies, a resolution is reached between them. Nabu relinquishes all of his power to Khalid while retaining his personal agency, resulting in a return to a similar dynamic as depicted earlier in the Doctor Fate series. Eventually, Nabu disappears from the narrative and is ultimately replaced by Hauhet.^[13]

Love interests[edit]

In the Doctor Fate series, Shaya Halim played a significant role as the chief love interest of the character. Their relationship was depicted as explicitly affectionate, with both characters sharing a strong bond and aspirations of becoming physicians. Their romantic involvement was portrayed as a central aspect of their lives, with plans for a future together. Additionally, Khalid's childhood best friend, Akila, was introduced as a Muslim activist who unknowingly encouraged Khalid toward activism. While Khalid harbored some feelings for Akila, their relationship remained platonic, and she was unaware of Khalid's secret life as a mystical superhero.^[4] In the Justice Society: The New Golden Age storyline, it was mentioned that a future version of Khalid and Power Girl shared a close history. This reference suggested the possibility of a romantic connection between the two characters.^[38]

Powers, abilities, and resources[edit]

Khalid possesses magical powers that are derived from his royal pharaonic lineage.^[39][34] These powers enable him to perform magic through commands and spell-casting, which are influenced by Egyptian traditions as well as the practices of the legendary wizard Merlin. In addition, Khalid has supernatural senses that allow him to perceive souls in the form of a ba and anticipate the impending death of others, complimenting his role as Doctor Fate.^[7][12] Under the guidance of Kent and Nabu, Khalid's knowledge of magic was significantly advanced.^[13] The character is also immortal.^[34]

In addition to his magical powers, Khalid has undergone extensive training as an emergency medical technician and holds a doctorate degree from Weill Cornell Medicine. He graduated with top honors from Brooklyn College, specializing in organic chemistry. Moreover, Khalid has acquired proficiency in hand-to-hand combat.^[18][40]

Mystical artifacts and resources[edit]

As Doctor Fate, Khalid possesses powers similar to those of Kent Nelson's incarnation. With the assistance of magical artifacts, Khalid instead wields element-controlling powers^[39] and is potentially capable of performing virtually any mystical feat as an incarnation of Doctor Fate.^[41] The artifacts also serve a dual purpose, enhancing his magical powers while also serving as protective measures.^[42]

Nassour chiefly dons the Helmet of Fate, a powerful magical artifact that bestows him with god-like magical energies and powers. In contrast to other versions, he draws his connections to ancient Egyptian deities (particularly from Thoth) and possesses the ability to control elements as well as drawing magical energy from elemental forces. The helm grants him a host of magical abilities, including healing, flight, intangibility, the projection of energy blasts, and enhances his awareness and senses.^[39][1] When the Helmet of Fate is inhabited by the spirit of Hauhet, Nassour gains the ability to see into the future^[34] and possesses heightened awareness that enables him to break the fourth wall.^[43] Khalid also possesses the Amulet of Anubis, offering protections against psychic, astral-probing, and mind control. It also grants him necromancy, contains a pocket universe, enhance his magical power, and can discharge powerful beams of magical energies.^[44]

Nassour also possess various other artifacts. The Staff of Power, an extraordinary artifact gifted to him by Thoth, the Egyptian deity. This staff grants Khalid the ability to control and project potent magical energy. It is powered by Khalid's own blood, a result of his pharaonic lineage. With the staff, Khalid can confront and defeat divine beings.^[1][39] The Eternity Book was crafted by the legendary sorcerer Merlin and is known to contain vast reserves of magical energy. In addition to its magical properties, the book serves as a comprehensive record of the history of the DC Universe, chronicling various events, beings, and realms within its pages. Additionally, Khalid also has access to the Tower of Fate, the traditional base of operations for the Doctor Fate lineage. Serving as a nexus for magic on Earth, the Tower of Fate is unique in that it lacks physical doors and can typically only be accessed through magic. Although the tower has been breached on multiple occasions, Khalid eventually establishes formidable wards capable of repelling powerful magic users like Zatanna, alien energies, and overwhelming strength originating from powerful entities such as Kryptonians.^[22] The tower also houses a collection of assorted mystical artifacts.^[21]

Weaknesses[edit]

While a formidable version of Doctor Fate, Nassour was once stated to be less powerful compared to previous versions before the New 52 reboot prior to his training.^[45] His healing powers were also ineffectively divine and ghostly forces^[4] and is considered inferior to the Spectre in power as an incarnation of Doctor Fate.^[46] As a cost for using the helm to see into the future, Khalid suffers a partial loss of his sight, resulting in impaired vision.^[17]

Supporting cast[edit]

In the original Doctor Fate 2015 series features a small cast of characters whom have an influence on Khalid's personal life and his activities as a superhero:

• Mohammed Nassour - Khalid's Islamic and Egyptian father and former physician turned taxi driver, was born and raised in Egypt before moving to America after marrying his American wife and archaeologist. His father is aware of his endeavors as Doctor Fate, has knowledge of their family history, and supports his son in both his personal and superhero life as he yearns for him to be a physician, an opportunity Mohammed no longer has due to moving to the United States.^[1][7]
• Elizabeth Nassour (née Nelson) - Khalid's mother and Mohammed's wife. Like her uncle, Elizabeth became a well-known archaeologist. While initially unaware, she later learns of her son's double life and supports him.^[1][7]
• Kent Nelson: Khalid's grand uncle, mentor, and the original Doctor Fate. Nelson is also characterized as a strict and stern mentor, encouraging him to fix his own mistakes regardless of how he feels. Overtime, the two develop a deep familial bond.^[1]
• Nabu: The spirit inhabiting the Helm of Fate. Nabu is initially characterized as vague and cryptic in his teaching. Later characterizations in other titles depicts Nabu as a stern and abrasive mentor who is fond of Khalid though their relationship becomes strained for a time until he embraces him once more, ceding control of his power to Khalid unlike the previous Doctor Fate.^[1][12]
• Bastet: The fictional depiction of Egyptian Bastet often also serves as a figure of guidance, having chosen him to bear the mantle of Doctor Fate. While she initially questions her decisions in choosing him, she later comes to accept and deems Khalid worthy.^[1] Bastet also protects Khalid's personal life by intervening with her godly influences.^[4]
• Archangels: Khalid is also subtly guided by archangels whom are sometimes disguised as humans, their human guises having guided him both in his personal life and his troubles in regards to the conflicting role of Doctor Fate and his Islamic faith. The archangels are portrayed as working in tandem with the Egyptian pantheon, both angels and deities alike answering to the DC Comics' depiction of Allah, the character known as the Pressence.^[1][7]

Outside the Doctor Fate series, Khalid also has a few allies:

• Stitch: A magically animated ragdoll that identifies as non-binary, the character is a member of Teen Titans Academy and is revealed to be Khalid's apprentice. Stitch seems to view Khalid in a paternal manner.^[16]

Enemies[edit]

In the Doctor Fate series, Khalid faced a small number of villains:

• Anubis - The fictional depiction of the Egyptian god of the same name. Anubis seeks to ultimately supplant Osiris's position due to the waning devotion of the ancient Egyptian deities weakening his pantheon, a limitation that does not affect him. He targets the Nassour family due to their bloodline and relation to the pharaohs of ancient Egypt, whose status as chosen priests of Atum makes them able to invoke influence over him.^[1]
• Julius Caesar - The fictional depiction of the Roman emperor of the same name; this version is a powerful spirit due to being declared a deity after his death, such an act empowering him in his afterlife. He comes into conflict with Khalid when his summoner, an unnamed Egyptian General who pilfers artifacts and practices magic, uses him and his powers to summon ancient spirits of fallen soldiers to quell protests. Khalid frees him from the General's control, allowing him to return to the afterlife.^[4]
• The General: An unnamed Egyptian general and necromancer with an interest in ancient Egyptian artifacts who revived the spirit of Julius Caesar using the dagger that killed him to compel him to do his bidding. Using Caesar and ghostly minions, he maintained power in Egypt through them and would use the spiritual forces against those whom protested his rule. Eventually, he is defeated by Khalid after he frees Julius from his control.^[4]
• Clothorus: Known as the "Spinner of the Threads of Fate" and the "Worldweaver". she is ancient entity capable of controlling the destinies of others through both her powers and her minions, the dreamspinners. Claiming to have been an enemy of past incarnations of Doctor Fate, Khalid came into conflict with Clothorus and her dreamspinners when Khalid's friend, Akila, is fated to be killed by Clothorus. Clothorus is eventually defeated by Khalid and her base of operations is later destroyed.^[7]

Khalid also has significant enemies outside his series:

• Xanadoth: A powerful Lord of Chaos and their former ruler, Xanadoth targeted Khalid due to being the latest Doctor Fate possessing the Helm of Fate in her quest to drain the powers of the Lords of Order, fellow Lords of Chaos, and the Lords of Eternal Balance and establish her own "brand of chaos". Khalid would team up with Superman and Zatanna to seemingly banish the Chaos Lord.^[15] She would later return, fighting members of the Justice League and Justice League Dark, successfully stealing the Helm of Fate using the body of Black Adam as her vessel. With the help of Justice League Dark, Justice League, Nabu, and newcomer Namoi McDuffie, Xanadoth is defeated once more.

Other versions[edit]

Future State[edit]

An older version of Khalid appears within the Future State company-wide event in the Justice League Dark back-up stories of the Future State: Justice League series. Depicted several years after the events of the "Great Wickedness" storyline and the fall of the Tower of Fate at the hands of Merlin and Arion, Khalid is revealed to have disappeared from the world in search of a way to fix the Helm of Fate, damaged from the suicidal attack of Kent Nelson performed against Upside-Down Man during the "A Costly Trick of Magic" storyline. Having found Hauhet, an ally of Nabu, she repaired the Helm and allowed him to see the future to understand how Merlin managed to recruit his "knights". He also lived through several alternate timelines in a vain attempt to find a future where they prove victorious against Merlin. Recognizing his current timeline as a future that ends in failure, he instead enforces a careful gambit, hiding himself from Merlin's view (whom seeks the Helm of Fate) until he is found by Etrigan. Revealing himself to his teammates years later, the Justice League Dark team alongside Doctor Fate against Merlin's forces and are overwhelmed by the combined might of Enchantress and Jason Blood, having been converted into one of his knights. Khalid then offers Merlin a deal to act as his oracle, the rogue wizard lacking the power to see the future. Accepting his deal, Khalid disappears with Merlin and his knights but not before revealing to Etrigan of his ability as a demon to perceive time different despite being part of a timeline where they are not victorious.^[47]

Huntress's possible future[edit]

Another future version of Khalid appears in "The New Golden Age" storyline; this version is one of the leaders of the Justice Society, being one of the few members to carry on the legacies of older Justice Society members alongside Power Girl, many whom have died or retired since. In this future, Khalid acts as the de-facto team leader and throughout his years, has come into conflict with his great-uncle's former first apprentice Salem the Witch Girl. He eventually enlists Helena Wayne (Huntress) into the team. With his permission, she enlisted former villains who were either enemies or related to enemies of the JSA as members in hopes to rehabilitation. Shortly after forming the team, he is killed by Per Degaton, empowered by a Lords of Chaos and using Salem's sacrificial ritual, and is subsequently mummified by Degaton. Prior to his death, he had also warned the future Catwoman of a mysterious stranger coming to kill her daughter.^[26][25]

Reception[edit]

Khalid, as an incarnation of Doctor Fate, has been well-received. Jessica Plummer, a writer for Book Riot, has observed the similarities between Khalid and Marvel Comics' Kamala Khan, both of whom represent important additions to the underrepresented demographic in the comic book medium. Plummer praised Khalid's appealing character design and acknowledged the significance of diverse representation in the industry. She specifically highlighted Khalid's design and as being part of a demographic that is still underrepresented in comics and commended the creators for addressing this gap.^[3] Levi Hunt, a writer for IGN, also expressed positive views about Khalid's character in the first issue of Doctor Fate (2015). He viewed Khalid as a positive step in establishing diversity within DC Comics and appreciated the incorporation of Egyptian mythology, which deviates from the commonly used Greek and Roman mythological themes prevalent in comics.^[48]

Criticisms[edit]

However, Plummer also expressed certain criticisms regarding certain aspects of the character. She believed that the Doctor Fate comic featuring Khalid did not feel innovative or culturally authentic and suggested the need for a Muslim-led writer to bring a more genuine perspective. Additionally, Plummer was critical of the character's storyline in James Tynion IV's run in Justice League Dark, where Khalid's fate involved being trapped within a vase by Nabu. She interpreted this plot development as an unintentional metaphor, considering Khalid, an Egyptian-born character, being reduced to a hieroglyphic confined within an ancient vase.^[3] Adrienne Resha, a researcher for Comic Studies Societies, raised similar concerns about the character's portrayal and design in the Justice League Dark. Resha pointed out inconsistencies in how the character was drawn, characterized, and colored, particularly in relation to his age and skin tone. The researcher also noted that Khalid was often sidelined in favor of other characters, including his predecessor Kent Nelson, despite being the only clearly identifiable person of color in the team. Resha further criticized the character for frequently invoking Egypt's ancient past instead of exploring its modern era.^[49]

The character's age also garnered criticism. Ashley Hurt, an author for CBR, expressed the opinion that the character's [college] age diminished the significance of Kent Nelson's struggles as Doctor Fate. Hurt suggested that it would have been preferable for the character to be slightly older and to wear a more traditional Doctor Fate costume to better align with the established narrative.^[50] However, it is important to note that the character's age in the comics was intended to be slightly older than college age, thus deviating from Hurt's assessment.^[5]

Critical response[edit]

• CBR included Khalid Nassour in their list of the "10 Most Powerful Golden Age DC Legacy Heroes".^[51]
• Gizmodo featured Khalid Nassour's comic and Young Justice versions in an article highlighting other Muslim heroes.^[52]
• Egyptian Streets featured the Khalid Nassour version of Doctor Fate in a list of Egyptian comic book superheroes.^[53]

In other media[edit]

• Khalid Nassour appears in the fourth season of Young Justice, voiced by Usman Ally.^[54] This version is a homo magi, protégé of Zatanna, and a member of her Sentinels of Magic. Additionally, he can perform magic by speaking his intent in a combination of Latin, Ancient Greek, and Arabic.^[55] Over the course of his time as a Sentinel, he and his peers are tested as and would later become Doctor Fate as part of a rotational agreement between Nabu and Zatanna.^[56]
• Khalid Nassour appears as a character summon in Scribblenauts Unmasked: A DC Comics Adventure.

Collections[edit]

See also[edit]

• Zachary, Brandon (26 September 2019). "Khalid Nassour: What Happened to DC's Last Doctor Fate?". CBR. Retrieved 3 April 2020.
• Harth, David (16 August 2022). "10 B-List DC Heroes Who Deserve Better". CBR. Retrieved 11 November 2023

References[edit]

External links[edit]

• Doctor Fate at the DC Database