Yeah! Outfit's kinda hokey... but so what? All part of the super-hero scene. An' this way when I use my powers, it's gonna seem natural. A little promotion work an' I'm in business! 
Appearing in "Out of Hell -- A Hero!"
Featured Characters:
- Lucas "Luke" Cage ⏵ (First appearance)
Supporting Characters:
- Dr. Noah Burstein ⏵ (First appearance)
Antagonists:
- Rivals (First appearance)
- Tank (First appearance)
- The Diablos (First appearance)
Other Characters:
- Quirt (First appearance)
- Rackham ⏵ (First appearance)
- Warden Stuart ⏵ (First appearance)
- Reva Connors (First appearance; dies)
- Frankenstein (Mentioned)
- Stark Industries (Mentioned)
Races and Species:
Locations:
- Earth
- North America
- United States of America
- New York
- Georgia
- Seagate Prison (First appearance)
- United States of America
- North America
Items:
Synopsis for "Out of Hell -- A Hero!"
At Seagate Prison, Lucas is a prisoner who has been abused by those who warden over him. However, when he explains to prison physician Noah Burstein that while he wasn't the most law-abiding citizen, he was framed for cocaine possession by his friend Willis Stryker, who then moved in on their criminal racket, and his girl, which eventually led to Reva's death. Burstein offers Lucas an early chance at parole if he helps with a scientific experiment.
However, when racist prison guard Billy Bob Rackham tampers with the machine, an unexpected effect: Lucas is granted enhanced strength and bulletproof skin. Once realizing this, Lucas uses his powers to escape Seagate, leaving the staff there to assume that he died trying to flee in the water.
Lucas eventually finds his way to New York City, where he decides to put his powers to use, earning himself some income as a "Hero for Hire". Buying a costume and taking on the name Luke Cage, Lucas begins his career as "Hero for Hire." Luke's activities make him popular among the people of Harlem, but also bring the attention of the local syndicate's leader: Diamondback, a costumed criminal with trick switchblades, who as it turns out, is Luke's old friend Stryker.
Solicit Synopsis
(May) This month's Soap-box says it all! But you'll say even more, after you step up and shake hands with - Luke Cage!
- (June) A wee bit late - but well worth the wait! Get in on the ground floor on this one, pilgrim! It's gonna be big!
Notes
Publication Notes[]
- Creative Contribution: Roy Thomas & John Romita
