Sunspot, one of Marvel’s mutant superheroes connected to the X-Men, has some bright, hot powers. A creation of Chris Claremont and Bob McLeod, Sunspot can absorb and channel solar power, manipulate heat and light, and send concussive blasts. A founding member of the New Mutants, he is known to be ambitious, impulsive, and idealistic.

Sunspot, aka Roberto da Costa, was introduced in Marvel Graphic Novel #4 (September 1982). He is the son of Emmanuel, an Afro-Brazilian businessman, and Nina, a white American archaeologist. Since his father was a self-made man he constantly pushed Roberto in academics and athletics. Because Emmanuel encouraged him, Roberto became a great soccer player and was considered for the Olympic team.

His mutant abilities manifested during a soccer game while on the field when he was assaulted by racists on the opposing team. As they beat him, his powers transformed him into solid black solar energy. Frightened by what they were witnessing, everyone fled the stadium – except his girlfriend Juliana.

A few days later a group of mutant haters led by Donald Pierce kidnaped Juliana to lure Sunspot into a trap. He put up a good fight, but lost when his powers began to run low. During the fight Juliana jumped in front of a bullet to save him and she died in the process.

Karma and Psyche rescued him and they went after Donald Pierce. Professor X found the trio, along with Wolfsbane and Cannonball, and offered to train them and together the quintet became the found members of the New Mutants. Though Professor X initially wanted them to just be students, they went on to become superheroes.