Thunderbird
John Proudstar
An Apache warrior with superhuman strength, speed, and endurance. Thunderbird was recruited for the All-New, All-Different X-Men alongside Storm, Wolverine, and Colossus, and was killed on only their second mission, making him one of the first major superhero deaths in comics. His sacrifice proved that the new X-Men played for real stakes.
Appearances Over Time
Most Appearances By Series
X-Men: Red (2018) 7 issues
Weapon X-Men (2025) 7 issues
Classic X-Men (1986) 6 issues
X-Force (2008) 5 issues
X-Men: Legacy (2008) 4 issues
House of M: Avengers (2008) 4 issues
X-Men: Die by the Sword (2007) 3 issues
X-Force (1991) 2 issues
The X-Men (1963) 2 issues
X-Men (1991) 2 issues
Event Participation
Giant-Size X-Men #1
1975
The X-Men #94
August 1975
Thunderbird's tragic death in only his second mission remains one of the most shocking and memorable moments in X-Men history, with readers still moved by the brutal scene where Xavier experienced John's final moments telepathically. The Krakoan era's *Giant-Size X-Men: Thunderbird* #1 gave him long-overdue spotlight and exploration, earning praise for finally developing a character who was killed off far too soon. Fans frequently cite him as deserving another shot at a main team roster, especially now that resurrection has made his return permanent.