Werewolf by Night is a Marvel Comics character and comic book series that first appeared in Marvel Spotlight #2 in February 1972. Created by writer Gerry Conway and artist Mike Ploog, the character's real name is Jack Russell, a man cursed with lycanthropy who transforms into a werewolf during the full moon. The series was part of Marvel's expansion into horror-themed titles following the relaxation of the Comics Code Authority's restrictions on supernatural creatures.
The original series followed Jack Russell's struggle to control his monstrous alter ego while navigating a world filled with supernatural threats. The character was notable for being one of Marvel's first horror-centric protagonists, and his stories often blended traditional monster tropes with superhero elements. The series ran for 43 issues from 1972 to 1977, with Jack Russell later appearing in various Marvel team-up books and crossover events.
The character's mythology introduced several elements that would become significant in Marvel's supernatural corner, including the mystical Darkhold and connections to other horror characters like Morbius and Man-Thing. While never achieving the mainstream popularity of Marvel's flagship heroes, Werewolf by Night developed a cult following and is remembered for its atmospheric artwork and moody storytelling that distinguished it from typical superhero fare of the era.
