Warning: Spoilers for Sentry #4!The introduction of a new Sentry into the Marvel Universe simultaneously introduces a new twist on the legacy hero concept. A legacy hero is best defined as a new character who follows in the footsteps of another by carrying the previous one’s name, powers, and characteristics, either concurrently or after the previous hero is done with it. However, the Sentry name isn’t one to be entirely proud of.
This is why Marvel’s newest powerful hero, Solarus, opts to carry the legacy of original Sentry Bob Reynolds without carrying his name, beginning in Sentry #4. In the first issue, Mallory Gibbs is introduced as one of numerous heroes to suddenly wake up with the late Sentry’s powers. By the series’ end, she’s the last one alive and officially declares her superhero persona – but doesn’t adopt the Sentry name.
The choice to not adopt his name both redefines and reconciles Sentry’s name and history, offering a new take on legacy heroes for the Marvel Universe.
Sentry’s Misdeeds Overshadow His Good Deeds
Sentry #4 by Jason Loo, Luigi Zagaria, Arthur Hesli, and VC’s Joe Caramagna
The Sentry name isn’t one to be proud of giving the road that Reynolds went down. Sentry has taken part in numerous heroic feats, like fighting Galactus to a standstill, but his misdeeds overshadow his good ones. When the name Sentry comes up, people don’t recall his positive moments as much as they recall when he was outright terrifying and disruptive, like when he literally ripped Ares apart. Some even recall his struggles with addiction, which further complicate his legacy.
This is directly referenced in Sentry #4, where Mallory can’t even mention how much of a good man Robert Reynolds was without acknowledging the dark influence he suffered under The Void. That would explain why Mallory chooses the name Solarus rather than that of her predecessor. The name Sentry strikes fear far more than it inspires hope. As Solarus, though, Mallory can bring new meaning to the Sentry symbol and costume by emphasizing the good qualities that Bob brought to the table, even without the name.
How Solarus Can Still Contribute to the Sentry Legacy
The legacy hero is usually all about finding new ways to contribute to the legacy of a hero with the same name, while adopting their mantle. We’ve seen it with heroes like Spider-Man, Captain America, and Ms. Marvel. But this is different. Rather than add to the legacy, Mallory seems intent on reinventing what that legacy meant, redefining what people think when they see a Sentry. The closest we’ve seen to something similar is Bloodsport and Red Hood, and both are DC properties. This feels like a completely new take on the legacy concept by Marvel’s standards that will give new meaning to the name Sentry.
