Amadeus Cho: Marvel's Korean-American Hero Unveiled

Amadeus Cho: Marvel's Brainy, Powerful Teen Hero

While Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man features a fresh take on Peter Parker, the animated series delves deep into the Marvel Universe. Many supporting characters are based on comic book heroes and villains, including Amadeus Cho, Peter's Oscorp intern. But who is Amadeus Cho, and why is he a significant teen hero? Let's explore this brilliant, yet self-absorbed character.

Who is Amadeus Cho?

Despite his youth and fierce competition, Amadeus Cho is among the Marvel Universe's smartest individuals. His brilliance and rebellious nature often lead him into legal trouble, resulting in a life partly spent evading authorities. He has a soft spot for fugitive heroes like the Hulk and Hercules, and fiercely protects his friends. He's gained immense strength, previously embodying the Hulk after absorbing Bruce Banner's gamma radiation. Though the classic Hulk has returned, Amadeus continues his heroic endeavors as Brawn.

Amadeus Cho's Powers and Abilities

Amadeus possesses exceptional intelligence, officially ranking as the seventh smartest person in the Marvel Universe (possibly higher). He excels at pattern recognition and complex mental calculations, though this intense mental activity often leaves him ravenous. As the Hulk, he gained immense strength, regeneration, and durability. Unlike the classic Hulk, Amadeus retains his intelligence and personality when transformed, avoiding the rage-monster aspect. Currently operating as Brawn, his power is slightly diminished from his Hulk persona, but he can still unleash his full Hulk strength when necessary.

Amadeus Cho's Comic Book History

Created by Greg Pak and Takeshi Miyazawa, Amadeus debuted in 2005's Amazing Fantasy Vol. 2 #15. Winning an Excello Soap Company competition, he became recognized as the world's seventh smartest man. However, the contest's sponsor targeted him, leading to his family's death and forcing him into hiding. A chance encounter with the Hulk forged a lifelong friendship.

Amadeus played a crucial role in 2007's World War Hulk crossover, teaming up with Hercules. Their adventures continued in The Incredible Hercules, showcasing their misadventures and eventual rise to respected heroism. They even saved the multiverse from Amatsu-Mikaboshi. After absorbing Bruce Banner's gamma radiation to prevent a nuclear meltdown, Amadeus became the Hulk, detailed in Totally Awesome Hulk. He also co-led a new iteration of the Champions alongside Ms. Marvel, Nova, Viv Vision, and a time-displaced Cyclops.

Now, with Banner back as the Hulk, Amadeus operates as Brawn, a powerful hero with unmatched intellect.

Amadeus Cho Beyond the Comics

Amadeus has appeared in various Marvel animated and video game projects, particularly after becoming the Hulk in the comics. He's a playable character in Marvel Future Fight, Marvel Puzzle Quest, and Avengers Academy, and features in LEGO Marvel games. He appeared in Ultimate Spider-Man and Lego Marvel Super Heroes: Avengers Reassembled as Iron Spider (voiced by Eric Bauza). Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man marks his first appearance as the Totally Awesome Hulk (voiced by Ki Hong Lee), and he's currently a supporting character in the series (voiced by Aleks Le) as a confident scientist and Peter Parker's Oscorp intern. His potential transformation into a super-powered hero remains to be seen. His mother, Helen Cho, appeared in Avengers: Age of Ultron, suggesting the MCU's long-term plans for the character.

Amadeus Cho's story continues to unfold, promising further exciting adventures in both comics and future media appearances.