| Polar Boy | |
|---|---|
 Polar Boy as depicted inWho's Who in the Legion of Super Heroes #5 (September 1988). | |
| Publication information | |
| Publisher | DC Comics |
| First appearance | Adventure Comics #306 (March 1963) |
| Created by | Edmond Hamilton John Forte |
| In-story information | |
| Alter ego | Brek Bannin |
| Species | Tharrian |
| Place of origin | Tharr |
| Team affiliations | Legion of Substitute Heroes Legion of Super-Heroes The Wanderers |
| Abilities | Cold generation and projection Heat resistance |
Polar Boy (Brek Bannin) is a fictional character from the 30th century of theDC Universe, initially suggested by reader Buddy Lavigne ofNorthbrook, Illinois in the letters page ofAdventure Comics #304, from January 1963.[1] He was the first of several characters who were created based on reader suggestions.[2]
Brek Bannin originates from the planet Tharr, which is considered one of the hottest inhabited planets in the galaxy. His family lives in the hottest valley of the planet, where the inhabitants developed cryokinetic abilities to combat the persistent heat.
Bannin first tried out for theLegion of Super-Heroes, but was rejected due to being unable to control his powers. He founded theLegion of Substitute Heroes with other rejected applicants, becoming the group's first leader.[3]
Polar Boy and the Subs aid the Legion numerous times, mostly acting as local law enforcement while the Legion was off-world. After stoppingComputo's attempt to conquerBismoll,Matter-Eater Lad's home planet, Polar Boy disbands the Substitutes.[4] He applies for membership in the Legion and is inducted along withSensor Girl, Magnetic Kid, Tellus, and Quislet.
Polar Boy appears in the "Threeboot" Legion as a member of theWanderers. His powers are described as "slowing molecular movement".[5]
In post-Infinite Crisis continuity, Polar Boy is seen in a torture camp, captured by an anti-alien movement led byKirt Niedrigh. His arm had been ripped off, but upon his release bySuperman and the Legion, he creates a replacement out of ice.[6]
Polar Boy appears in the 2021 one-shotTis the Season to Be Freezin', where he datesComet Queen.[7]
Polar Boy possesses the innate ability to reduce heat and produce cold, which enables him to withstand high temperatures. Furthermore, he is a skilled leader, having led the Legion of Substitute Heroes on multiple occasions.
