WARNING: This article contains SPOILERS for the Invincible comics and Invincible season 2.
Article Overview
In season 2 of Invincible, a new superhero named Bulletproof is introduced. He was hinted at in season 1 through an Easter egg.
Bulletproof obtains his powers through an experiment conducted by his twin brother, Tyrone. His abilities include energy absorption and superhuman strength.
Bulletproof's importance in the comics is evident as he assumes the role of Invincible when Mark loses his powers, hinting at a promising future for the character in the series. In season 2 of Invincible, a hidden reference from season 1 finally becomes relevant as a new superhero is introduced. The aftermath of Omni-Man's actions on Mark Grayson and his mother is showcased, leading to Cecil Stedman's lack of trust in Mark's loyalty to the Global Defense Agency. Consequently, Cecil hesitates to deploy Mark for future missions to safeguard the planet.
However, when the Guardians of the Globe, consisting of Rudy/Robot, Rex Splode, Dupli-Kate, Shrinking Rae, Monster Girl, and Black Samson, struggle to defeat The Giant, it becomes apparent that the group requires additional assistance. Therefore, Cecil decides to bring in The Immortal to take charge of the team, considering his extensive experience as a hero spanning several thousand years. Furthermore, realizing that the Guardians also need more physical strength, Bulletproof makes a remarkable entrance. While this marks Bulletproof's inaugural appearance in Amazon's Invincible TV show, it is important to note that the character was introduced way back in the very first episode.
Invincible's First Episode Included A Bulletproof Easter Egg
After obtaining his powers in Invincible season 1, episode 1, Mark embarks on a crime-fighting journey while still clad in his pajamas, concealing his identity. Realizing the importance of a distinctive superhero ensemble for his son, Omni-Man arranges a meeting between Mark and Art Rosenbaum, a renowned super-suit designer. As Mark enters Rosenbaum's shop, his attention is immediately captivated by a mannequin displaying Bulletproof's costume. Intrigued, Mark tries on Bulletproof's suit but ultimately decides against it, deeming the vibrant orange and yellow attire too attention-grabbing. This cleverly placed hint in Invincible season 1 forecasts the imminent arrival of Bulletproof, who eventually makes his debut in Invincible season 2.
Who Is Bulletproof? Backstory & Powers In Invincible Explained
Zandale Randolph, the brother of Tyrone Randolph, was always overshadowed by his favored twin. While Tyrone was focused on science and yearned for superpowers, Zandale embraced a carefree lifestyle and pursued his passion for painting. In an ambitious attempt to gain abilities, Tyrone conducted an experiment on his unsuspecting twin, which tragically resulted in the loss of Tyrone's life while granting Zandale extraordinary powers.
Bulletproof makes his debut in the comic series Invincible's Volume 1, Issue 9.
His extraordinary powers stem from the unique talent of absorbing energy, granting him the ability to thrive in different surroundings without requiring air, sustenance, or water, as his inherent abilities to absorb kinetic energy sustain him. Additionally, he can achieve flight at astonishing speeds, reaching approximately 750 miles per hour, facilitating interstellar voyages. Bulletproof's capacity to absorb kinetic energy renders him nearly impervious to physical injury, while also drastically accelerating his healing abilities beyond human limits.
Bulletproof possesses extraordinary reflexes, speed, stamina, and strength. However, his ability to sustain continuous maximum exertion of kinetic energy is limited, depleting his energy reserves. Additionally, attacks that do not involve significant kinetic energy, like strangulation or crushing, can still cause significant injury. Despite these vulnerabilities, his costume acts as armor, providing protection against such attacks that would otherwise leave Bulletproof exposed.
In Invincible season 1, Cecil conducted tryouts to form a new Guardians of the Globe team. Although Bulletproof was not included in the TV show, he was featured in the comic version. However, he did not make it to the final roster. In the comics, Bulletproof eventually joined the team due to his ability to fly and took part in several battles alongside the Guardians during Invincible season 1, including the confrontation with Battle Beast. As Bulletproof is introduced in Invincible season 2, his character will play a more significant role in the series.
Bulletproof's Invincible Future Is Much Bigger Than The Guardians
In the Invincible comic book series, Atom Eve forms Invincible Inc., an organization dedicated to assisting those in need. While typically on missions himself, Invincible sometimes relies on Bulletproof to step in when he's absent. However, in Invincible Vol 1 #124, Mark unintentionally contracts the Scourge Virus from his half-brother, Oliver Grayson. This virus was created by the Coalition of Planets to eliminate or significantly weaken the Viltrumite's powers.
As a result of the Scourge virus, Mark loses all his abilities, leading Bulletproof to assume the role of Invincible on a more permanent basis, essentially becoming the story's primary hero. Bulletproof even alters his appearance by getting rid of his cornrows and shaving his facial hair to resemble Mark's original Invincible. Bulletproof operates incognito as Invincible until Mark's powers are restored. Consequently, his official introduction in Invincible season 2 marks only the beginning of an expansive journey for this prominent superhero from the comics.
Invincible season 2 continues Fridays on Prime Video.
Editor's P/S
Invincible Season 2 introduces Bulletproof, a captivating new superhero whose arrival was cleverly foreshadowed in the show's debut episode. This exciting reveal not only adds depth to the Invincible universe but also hints at a promising future for the character. Bulletproof's backstory, incredible powers, and significant role in the comics suggest that he will play a crucial part in the series going forward.
The introduction of Bulletproof also raises intriguing questions about the show's narrative. His abilities, particularly his energy absorption and superhuman strength, make him a formidable force. It will be interesting to see how he interacts with the other characters, especially Invincible, and how his presence impacts the dynamics within the Guardians of the Globe. Additionally, the revelation that Bulletproof was hinted at in season 1 showcases the creators' attention to detail and their commitment to building a cohesive and intricate story.