Melvin Potter (Gladiator)
Melvin Potter, the supervillain Gladiator, is a brilliant engineer and inventor known for creating advanced weaponry and armor for criminals.
Character
Cinematic | Literary
Marvel
First appearing in Daredevil #18 (1966), Melvin Potter, a skilled inventor and costume designer, initially faced Daredevil as the supervillain Gladiator before becoming a valuable ally. In the Netflix series Daredevil (2015-2018), Potter assists Daredevil by crafting his iconic suit.
Beyond his comic book origins, Melvin Potter’s influence extends to the realm of advanced weaponry. In 1974, he founded Potter Industries, specializing in high-tech weaponry sought after by military and law enforcement worldwide. His revolutionary body armor, developed in the 1980s, proved instrumental in saving lives during the Gulf War.
Potter’s contributions have garnered prestigious accolades. In 1985, he received the National Medal of Technology from President Ronald Reagan, followed by induction into the National Inventors Hall of Fame in 1990. Time magazine recognized his global impact by naming him one of the “50 Most Influential People in the World” in 2000.
Outside his professional achievements, Potter cherishes his personal life. Married to Susan for over four decades, they share two children, Michael and Sarah. An avid pilot, Potter also indulges in reading, amassing a personal library of over 10,000 books. His philanthropic efforts focus on education, with substantial donations to various institutions.