Shiro Yoshida (Earth-616)
Sunfire, also known as Shiro Yoshida, is a prominent Japanese superhero in the Marvel Comics universe. Possessing the mutant ability to generate and manipulate solar plasma, he has been both an ally and occasional adversary to various heroes, most notably the X-Men. Sunfire is recognized for his distinctive fiery powers, complex personality, and strong ties to Japanese culture and history.
Publication History[edit]
Sunfire made his first appearance in X-Men Vol 1 64 (January 1970), created by writer Roy Thomas and artist Don Heck. This debut was historically significant as Sunfire was one of the first non-white superheroes and the first Asian hero introduced in Marvel Comics. While not a consistent member of any single team, Sunfire has been a recurring character in the Marvel Universe, appearing in various X-Men titles and team-ups with other heroes like Spider-Woman and Namor AKA Sub-Mariner.
Key creative teams involved in Sunfire's development include:
| Creative Team | Contribution |
|---|---|
| Roy Thomas and Don Heck | Created the character and established his early appearances. |
| Chris Claremont | Further developed Sunfire's character in Uncanny X-Men Vol 1 193 (May 1985). |
| Peter Milligan | Significantly altered Sunfire's powers and appearance in X-Men (vol. 2). |
| Rick Remender | Included Sunfire as a member of the Uncanny Avengers. |
Character Development[edit]
Origin and Revisions[edit]
Shiro Yoshida was born in Agarashima, Japan. His mother suffered radiation poisoning from the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, which resulted in Shiro being born a mutant with the ability to absorb and manipulate solar radiation. Tragically, his mother died from radiation poisoning when he was young.
Sunfire's origin story has remained relatively consistent, with minor revisions and additions over time. One notable change occurred in 2006 when Apocalypse amplified his powers, causing his body to be constantly engulfed in flames. This resulted in a significant shift in his appearance and abilities, aligning him more closely with his Age of Apocalypse counterpart.
In the Age of Apocalypse reality, Sunfire was already in this state due to the experiments of Maximus the Mad. This forced him to wear a containment suit. In the Earth X reality, Sunfire leads a team of heroes called Xen and has a son who inherits his powers and codename, becoming Lord Sunfire. However, in an alternate reality where Deadpool leads a revival of the X-Men, Sunfire dies alongside most of his teammates at the hands of Agent Zero.
Powers and Abilities[edit]
Sunfire's primary mutant power is the ability to absorb solar radiation and convert it into various forms of energy. This grants him a range of abilities, including:
- Plasma Generation: Sunfire can generate superheated plasma, reaching temperatures of up to 1,000,000 degrees Fahrenheit. He can release this plasma as powerful blasts, create fiery constructs, and envelop himself in a protective aura. His control over this power is precise, demonstrated by melting objects without harming individuals.
- Flight: By ionizing the air around him, Sunfire can propel himself through the air at speeds exceeding 150 miles per hour.
- Enhanced Durability: His plasma aura provides resistance to physical and energy attacks.
- Infrared Vision: Sunfire can perceive infrared radiation, allowing him to see heat signatures.
- Radiation Immunity: He is immune to the harmful effects of radiation.
- Bio-Oxygen Emission: Augmented by Apocalypse, Sunfire can emit bio-oxygen, enabling him to breathe and generate flames even in space.
Defining Moments and Personality[edit]
Sunfire's character is defined by pride, arrogance, and underlying heroism. He is fiercely independent and often struggles with teamwork, preferring to operate solo. However, his journey is marked by moments of personal growth and heroism.
- Key Moments:
* The death of his mother and subsequent resentment towards the United States. * Killing his uncle Tomo after witnessing him murder his father. * Joining the X-Men, demonstrating a willingness to work with others. * Losing his legs to Lady Deathstrike during a battle. * Becoming Famine, one of Apocalypse's Horsemen. * Joining the Uncanny Avengers to promote unity between humans and mutants.
Key Relationships and Affiliations[edit]
- Family: Sunfire is a member of the powerful Clan Yoshida, cousin to Mariko Yashida and the Silver Samurai.
- Notable Antagonists: Apocalypse, Yuriko Oyama/Lady Deathstrike, and Dragon Lord.
Media Appearances[edit]
Sunfire has appeared in various Marvel media, including Spider-Man and His Amazing Friends, X-Men: The Animated Series, and Marvel Disk Wars: The Avengers. As of 2025, Sunfire has yet to appear in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).
Conclusion[edit]
Sunfire embodies the complexities of Japan's post-WWII identity, grappling with national pride, historical trauma, and global dynamics. His fiery powers and evolving personality make him a compelling character with significant potential for further development in the Marvel Universe.
For more detailed explorations of Sunfire's character, powers, and significant story arcs, visit the comprehensive profiles at UncannyXmen.net and Marvel Fandom.
TV Appearances[edit]
X-Men: The Animated Series (1992-1997)[edit]
Sunfire appeared in this popular animated series, voiced by Denis Akiyama.
- S1.E7, Feb 13, 1993, Slave Island (1993) ... Sunfire / Shiro Yoshida (voice)
- S3.E15, Feb 4, 1995, Cold Comfort (1995) ... Iceman / Bobby Drake (voice)
- S4.E13, Feb 3, 1996, Lotus and the Steel (X-Men: The Animated Series) (1996) ... Silver Samurai / Kenuichio Harada / Soichi (voice) (with Lady Deathstrike)
- S4.E15, Feb 17, 1996, Secrets, Not Long Buried (1996) ... Dr. Darrell Tanaka (voice)
- S5.E14, Sep 20, 1997, Graduation Day (1997) ... Sunfire / Shiro Yoshida (voice)
Spider-Man and His Amazing Friends (1981-1983)[edit]
Sunfire was featured in a self-titled episode, voiced by Jerry Dexter. In this appearance, he falls in love with Firestar while working with her, Spider-Man, and Iceman.
Marvel Disk Wars: The Avengers (2014)[edit]
Sunfire appears in this anime series, voiced by Tomokazu Sugita in Japanese and Yuri Lowenthal in the English dub.
Wolverine and the X-Men (2009)[edit]
While not explicitly mentioned in the search results, Sunfire is known to have appeared in this animated series as well.
Comic Appearances[edit]
| Title | Year/Month |
|---|---|
| X-Men Vol 1 64 | 1970.01 January |
| Sub-Mariner Vol 1 52 | 1972.08 August |
| Sub-Mariner Vol 1 53 | 1972.09 September |
| Sub-Mariner Vol 1 54 | 1972.10 October |
| Avengers Vol 1 117 | 1973.11 November |
| Iron Man Vol 1 67 | 1974.04 April |
| Iron Man Vol 1 68 | 1974.06 June |
| Iron Man Vol 1 69 | 1974.08 August |
| Iron Man Vol 1 70 | 1974.09 September |
| X-Men Vol 1 94 | 1975.08 August |
| Iron Man Vol 1 72 (Flashback-only) | 1975.01 January |
| Giant-Size X-Men Vol 1 1 | 1975.05 May |
| Iron Man Vol 1 98 | 1977.05 May |
| Iron Man Vol 1 99 | 1977.06 June |
| X-Men Vol 1 118 | 1979.02 February |
| X-Men Vol 1 119 | 1979.03 March |
| X-Men Vol 1 120 | 1979.04 April |
| X-Men Vol 1 138 | 1980.10 October |
| Marvel Super Hero Contest of Champions #1 | 1982.06 June |
| Marvel Super Hero Contest of Champions #2 | 1982.07 July |
| Marvel Super Hero Contest of Champions #3 | 1982.08 August |
| Incredible Hulk #279 | 1983.01 January |
| Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe #11 | 1983.11 November |
| Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe #12 | 1983.12 December |
| Uncanny X-Men #181 | 1984.05 May |
| Weapons Locker | 1985 |
| Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe Vol 2 #12 | 1986.11 November |
| Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe Vol 2 #15 | 1987.03 March |
| The Official Marvel Index to the X-Men #3 | 1987.09 September |
| Gamer's Handbook of the Marvel Universe #4 | 1988 |
| Marvel Comics Presents #32 | 1989.11 November |
| Uncanny X-Men Annual #1990 | 1990.07 July |
| New Mutants #93 | 1990.09 September |
| Deathlok #3 | 1990.09 September |
| Deathlok #4 | 1990.10 October |
| New Mutants #94 | 1990.10 October |
| Avengers West Coast Vol 2 #71 | 1991.06 June |
| Avengers West Coast Vol 2 #74 | 1991.09 September |
| Uncanny X-Men #284 | 1992.01 January |
| Uncanny X-Men #285 | 1992.02 February |
| Uncanny X-Men #286 | 1992.03 March |
| Wolverine Vol 2 #55 | 1992.06 June |
| Wolverine Vol 2 #56 | 1992.07 July |
| Wolverine Vol 2 #60 | 1992.09 September |
| Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe Master Edition #25 | 1992.12 December |
| Black Axe #2 | 1993.05 May |
| Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe Master Edition #34 | 1993.09 September |
| X-Men Vol 2 #25 | 1993.10 October |
| Namor the Sub-Mariner #45 | 1993.12 December |
| Wolverine Annual Vol 2 #1996 | 1996.10 October |
| Alpha Flight Vol 2 #1 | 1997.08 August |
| Alpha Flight Vol 2 #2 | 1997.09 September |
| Alpha Flight Vol 2 #3 | 1997.10 October |
| Alpha Flight Vol 2 #4 | 1997.11 November |
| Alpha Flight Vol 2 #5 | 1997.12 December |
| Alpha Flight Vol 2 #7 | 1998.02 February |
| Alpha Flight Vol 2 #8 | 1998.03 March |
| Alpha Flight Vol 2 #9 | 1998.04 April |
| Alpha Flight Vol 2 #12 | 1998.07 July |
| Sunfire and Big Hero Six #1 | 1998.09 September |
| Sunfire and Big Hero Six #2 | 1998.10 October |
| Sunfire and Big Hero Six #3 | 1998.11 November |
| Alpha Flight Vol 2 #17 | 1998.12 December |
| X-Men: Liberators #2 | 1998.12 December |
| X-Men Vol 2 #93 | 1999.10 October |
| X-Men Vol 2 #94 | 1999.11 November |
| Uncanny X-Men #374 | 1999.11 November |
| X-Men: The Hidden Years #1 | 1999.12 December |
| X-Men Vol 2 #96 | 2000.01 January |
| X-Men Vol 2 #97 | 2000, February |
| Uncanny X-Men #377 | 2000.02 February |
| Cable #76 | 2000.02 February |
| Cable #77 | 2000.03 March |
| Uncanny X-Men #378 | 2000.03 March |
| Cable #78 | 2000.04 April |
| Uncanny X-Men #379 | 2000.04 April |
| Maximum Security #1 | 2000.11 November |
| X-Men: Black Sun #2 | 2000.11 November |
| X-Men: Black Sun #1 | 2000.11 November |
| X-Men: Black Sun #5 | 2000.11 November |
| X-Men: Black Sun #3 | 2000.11 November |
| Iron Fist Wolverine #2 | 2000.12 December |
| Iron Fist Wolverine #3 | 2001.01 January |
| Maximum Security #3 | 2001.01 January |
| Iron Fist Wolverine #4 | 2001.02 February |
| X-Men Unlimited #34 | 2002.06 June |
| Weapon X: The Draft - Wild Child #1 | 2002.10 October |
| Marvel Encyclopedia #1 | 2002.10 October |
| New X-Men #133 | 2002.12 December |
| X-Men Unlimited #39 | 2003.01 January |
| Marvel Encyclopedia #X-Men | 2003.03 March |
| Marvel Universe: The End #5 | 2003.07 July |
| Marvel Team-Up Vol 3 #4 | 2005.03 March |
| Rogue Vol 3 #7 | 2005.03 March |
| Marvel Team-Up Vol 3 #5 | 2005.04 April |
| Rogue Vol 3 #8 | 2005.04 April |
| Rogue Vol 3 #9 | 2005.05 May |
| Marvel Team-Up Vol 3 #6 | 2005.05 May |
| Rogue Vol 3 #10 | 2005.06 June |
| Giant-Size X-Men #3 | 2005.06 June |
| Marvel Team-Up Vol 3 #8 | 2005.07 July |
| Marvel Team-Up Vol 3 #9 | 2005.08 August |
| Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe Vol 4 #19 | 2005.11 November |
| X-Men Vol 2 #182 | 2006.04 April |
| X-Men Vol 2 #183 | 2006.04 April |
| Black Panther Vol 4 #14 | 2006.05 May |
| X-Men Vol 2 #184 | 2006.05 May |
| X-Men Vol 2 #185 | 2006.06 June |
| X-Men Vol 2 #186 | 2006.07 July |
| X-Men Vol 2 #187 | 2006.08 August |
| X-Men Vol 2 #200 | 2007.08 August |
| Cable & Deadpool #42 | 2007.08 August |
| X-Men Vol 2 #201 | 2007.09 September |
| X-Men Vol 2 #202 | 2007.10 October |
| X-Men Vol 2 #203 | 2007.11 November |
| X-Men: Messiah Complex - Mutant Files #1 | 2007.12 December |
| X-Men: Messiah Complex #1 | 2007.12 December |
| X-Men Vol 2 #205 | 2008.01 January |
| New X-Men Vol 2 #44 | 2008.01 January |
| X-Men Vol 2 #207 | 2008.03 March |
| New X-Men Vol 2 #46 | 2008.03 March |
| Uncanny X-Men #494 | 2008.03 March |
| X-Factor Vol 3 #27 | 2008.03 March |
| X-Men: Legacy #208 | 2008.04 April |
| Cable Vol 2 #2 | 2008.06 June |
| X-Men Origins: Colossus #1 | 2008.07 July |
| Young X-Men #5 | 2008.10 October |
| X-Men: Legacy #216 | 2008.11 November |
| X-Men: Original Sin #1 | 2008.12 December |
| X-Men Origins: Wolverine #1 | 2009.06 June |
| Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe A-Z #11 | 2009.12 December |
| Deadpool & Cable #25 | 2010.06 June |
| Origins of Marvel Comics: X-Men #1 | 2010.11 November |
| Heroic Age: X-Men #1 | 2011.02 February |
| Uncanny Avengers #5 | 2013.05 May |
| Uncanny Avengers #7 | 2013.06 June |
| Uncanny Avengers #8 | 2013.07 July |
| Wolverine: Japan's Most Wanted: Infinite Comic #8 | 2013.08 August |
| Cable and X-Force #10 | 2013.08 August |
| Uncanny Avengers #9 | 2013.08 August |
| Wolverine: Japan's Most Wanted: Infinite Comic #7 | 2013.08 August |
| Uncanny Avengers #10 | 2013.09 September |
| Wolverine: Japan's Most Wanted: Infinite Comic #12 | 2013.09 September |
| Wolverine: Japan's Most Wanted: Infinite Comic #13 | 2013.09 September |
| Wolverine: Japan's Most Wanted: Infinite Comic #10 | 2013.09 September |
| Wolverine: Japan's Most Wanted: Infinite Comic #9 | 2013.09 September |
| Wolverine: Japan's Most Wanted: Infinite Comic #11 | 2013.09 September |
| Uncanny Avengers #11 | 2013.10 October |
| Cable and X-Force #14 | 2013.11 November |
| X-Men: Gold #1 | 2014.01 January |
| Nightcrawler Vol 4 #1 | 2014.06 June |
| Uncanny Avengers Annual #1 | 2014.06 June |
| Deadpool Vol 3 #28 | 2014.07 July |
| Thunderbolts Vol 2 #27 | 2014.08 August |
| Uncanny Avengers #21 | 2014.09 August |
| Uncanny Avengers #22 | 2014.09 September |
| Uncanny Avengers #23 | 2014.10 October |
| Nightcrawler Vol 4 #7 | 2014.12 December |
| Avengers & X-Men: AXIS #1 | 2014.12 December |
| Avengers & X-Men: AXIS #2 | 2014.12 December |
| Captain America Vol 7 #25 | 2014.12 December |
| Avengers & X-Men: AXIS #5 | 2015.01 January |
| Avengers & X-Men: AXIS #4 | 2015.01 January |
| All-New X-Factor #16 | 2015.01 January |
| Avengers & X-Men: AXIS #7 | 2015.02 February |
| S.H.I.E.L.D. Vol 3 #1 | 2015.02 February |
| Loki: Agent of Asgard #9 | 2015.02 February |
| All-New X-Factor #18 | 2015.02 February |
| All-New X-Factor #17 | 2015.02 February |
| Avengers & X-Men: AXIS #8 | 2015.02 February |
| All-New X-Factor #20 | 2015.03 March |
| All-New X-Factor #19 | 2015.03 March |
| Fantastic Four #643 | 2015.04 April |
| Amazing X-Men Vol 2 #19 | 2015.06 June |
| Captain America and the Mighty Avengers #9 | 2015.08 August |
| Extraordinary X-Men #6 | 2016.03 March |
| Extraordinary X-Men #7 | 2016.04 April |
| Death of X #2 | 2016.12 December |
| Death of X #3 | 2017.01 January |
| Death of X #4 | 2017.01 January |
| IVX #1 | 2017.02 February |
| All-New X-Men Vol 2 #17 | 2017.03 March |
| IVX #2 | 2017.03 March |
| Secret Empire: United #1 | 2017.08 August |
| Secret Warriors Vol 2 #3 | 2017.08 August |
| Secret Warriors Vol 2 #4 | 2017.09 September |
| Avengers Vol 8 #11 | 2019.02 February |
| Uncanny X-Men Vol 5 #10 | 2019.03 March |
| Uncanny X-Men Vol 5 #9 | 2019.03 March |
| Age of X-Man Alpha #1 | 2019.03 March |
| Age of X-Man: Nextgen #1 | 2019.04 April |
| Age of X-Man: Nextgen #2 | 2019.05 May |
| Age of X-Man: Nextgen #3 | 2019.06 June |
| Age of X-Man: Nextgen #4 | 2019.07 July |
| X-Force Vol 6 #1 | 2020.01 January |
| Tarot #4 | 2020.05 May |
Links[edit]
- Marvel Fandom Wiki
- SUNFIRE - UncannyXmen.Net
- ComicBookInvest.com
- GiantBomb
- Marvel.com
- Sunfire (comics) - Wikipedia
- Shiro Yoshida as Sunfire (Earth-616) - Marvel Comics
- X-Men: 10 Things You Didn't Know About Sunfire - CBR
- What Makes Sunfire A Symbol For Post-WW2 Japan? - The Comic Vault
Video Game Appearances[edit]
| Game Title | Release Date | Platforms |
|---|---|---|
| X-Men: Battle of the Atom | January 16, 2014 | IPHN, IPAD, ANDR |
| Marvel: War of Heroes | September 25, 2012 | IPHN, IPAD, ANDR |
| Marvel: Avengers Alliance | February 28, 2012 | PC, IPHN, + 3 more |
| Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds | February 15, 2011 | X360, PS3 |
| Marvel Trading Card Game | January 27, 2007 | PSP, DS, PC |
| X-Men: Legends II - Rise of Apocalypse | September 20, 2005 | PSP, PS2 |