The Thing is a fictional superhero appearing in American comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character was created by writer Stan Lee and artist Jack Kirby, and first appeared in The Fantastic Four #1 in 1961. The Thing is the alter ego of Benjamin Jacob "Ben" Grimm, a former college football star and test pilot who, along with his best friend Reed Richards, his girlfriend Sue Storm, and her brother Johnny Storm, was exposed to cosmic rays during an unauthorized space flight. The radiation mutated his body, transforming him into a superhumanly strong, orange, rock-like creature.
Despite his monstrous appearance, Ben Grimm retains his kind heart, street-smart wit, and a deep sense of loyalty, particularly to his teammates in the Fantastic Four. His character is defined by the tragic tension between his heroic nature and his longing for his lost humanity, making him one of Marvel's most complex and beloved characters. His signature battle cry, "It's clobberin' time!", has become iconic in popular culture.
As a core member of the Fantastic Four, the Thing has been a central figure in the Marvel Universe since the Silver Age of Comics. He has been featured in his own solo comic series, including the long-running Marvel Two-in-One, where he was paired with a different Marvel hero each issue. The character's blend of brute strength, vulnerability, and humor has made him a template for many subsequent comic book heroes.