Mister Terrific, also known as Michael Holt, is one of DC Comics’ most intelligent and skilled superheroes.
Michael Holt made his first comic book appearance in Spectre Vol. 3 #54 (1997), created by John Ostrander and Tom Mandrake.
His origin story is tragic, even by superhero standards. After a heated argument with his wife about religion, she tragically dies in a car accident while pregnant.
Holt blames himself, believing their argument delayed her and led to the crash. Consumed by guilt, he contemplates suicide.
However, he is visited by The Spectre, who introduces him to the legacy of Terry Sloane—the Golden Age Mr. Terrific. Inspired by Sloane’s pursuit of justice, Holt takes up the mantle of Mr. Terrific.
Mr. Terrific is a polymath, meaning he has a natural aptitude for mastering virtually any field of study. Unlike the old saying, “Jack of all trades, master of none”.
Holt studies and masters whatever he sets his mind to. He has even learned complicated surgeries by simply reading a book and assisting Dr. Mid-Nite.
His intellect is often compared to Batman’s, and while he doesn’t have superpowers, his mind is a superweapon.