Action Comics # 421 1973 VG

Action Comics #421 (February 1973) is a highly notable Bronze Age issue published by DC Comics. This key issue is best known for introducing a recurring character heavily inspired by Popeye the Sailor Man, alongside a backup feature starring two iconic DC archers.

Main Story: "The Fantastic Feats of Captain Strong!"

• The Premise: Superman encounters Captain O'Brien Strong, a crusty, pipe-smoking old sailor who has developed temporary, mind-boggling super strength that rivals the Man of Steel.
• The Popeye Homage: The story acts as a direct, affectionate parody of Popeye. Instead of spinach, Captain Strong derives his incredible power from eating "Suancha," an exotic, mind-altering seaweed.
• The Conflict: The specialized seaweed grew from alien spores, and it makes Captain Strong highly aggressive when consumed. An unscrupulous food distributor attempts to exploit Strong to market the seaweed commercially. Superman must intervene to safely pacify the sailor and prevent the dangerous alien vegetation from spreading.

Backup Story: "The Name of the Game is... Death!"

• The Premise: This short features a team-up starring Green Arrow and Black Canary.
• The Plot: Written by Elliot S! Maggin, the story features dynamic art by Dick Giordano. It focuses on the street-level heroics of the duo as they deal with a dangerous assassin plotting a deadly trap.

Creative Team

• Writers: Cary Bates (Superman story) and Elliot S! Maggin (Green Arrow backup).
• Artists: Curt Swan and Murphy Anderson (main story pencils and inks), Nick Cardy (iconic cover art)