The Savage She-Hulk #17

The Savage She-Hulk premiered in February 1980, created by writer Stan Lee and artist John Buscema. Marvel developed the character Jennifer Walters specifically to secure copyright protection, as the success of The Incredible Hulk television series (1977-1982) raised concerns that competitors might create a female version. The series introduced Walters as attorney Bruce Banner's cousin who gained her powers through an emergency blood transfusion from him. Unlike her cousin, she retained her intelligence and personality when transformed, establishing a distinct character dynamic. The series ran for 25 issues until February 1982, with writers David Anthony Kraft and Mike Vosburg taking over the majority of the run after Lee's departure following the first issue.

The timing and context of She-Hulk's creation reflected the comic industry's evolving approach to female superheroes in the late 1970s and early 1980s. She-Hulk arrived during a period when Marvel was experimenting with female-led titles, following the cancellation of books like Ms. Marvel (1977-1979) and Spider-Woman (1978-1983 was still running). The series attempted to balance superhero action with legal drama, as Walters worked as a Los Angeles assistant district attorney. Sales figures were modest compared to Marvel's flagship titles, contributing to its cancellation after two years. However, the character's introduction established her as one of Marvel's few female heroes to originate with her own series rather than as a supporting character or team member.

The Savage She-Hulk's approach to its protagonist differed from many contemporary female superhero comics. While the series included some romance subplots and fashion elements common to female-targeted comics of the era, it primarily focused on superhero adventures and crime-fighting. Artist John Buscema designed She-Hulk as physically powerful and muscular, though subsequent artists varied in their interpretation. The series avoided the common trope of the reluctant hero, as Walters generally embraced her transformed state. This characterization laid groundwork for future interpretations, particularly John Byrne's influential Sensational She-Hulk series (1989-1994), which would develop her into a more comedic, fourth-wall-breaking character.

The series' legacy extends beyond its brief run. She-Hulk became one of Marvel's most enduring female characters, appearing regularly in Avengers and Fantastic Four titles throughout the 1980s and beyond. The character's profession as a lawyer provided unique storytelling opportunities that distinguished her from other superheroes. Legal scholars and comic historians have noted She-Hulk's role in representing professional women in superhero comics during a period of changing gender dynamics in American society. The Savage She-Hulk #1 remains a key issue for collectors, particularly as the character gained prominence through appearances in Marvel Cinematic Universe projects beginning in 2022.