Black Adam (Teth/Theo-Adam) is a fictional character from American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by Otto Binder and C.C. Beck, Black Adam is one of the archenemies of the superhero Captain Marvel (now known as Shazam) and the nemesis of the Marvel Family. The character first appeared as a one-time villain in the first issue of Fawcett Comics’ The Marvel Family comic book in December 1945.

Revived as a recurring character after DC Comics licensed and then acquired the Fawcett characters, Black Adam’s stories began appearing under the title Shazam! in the 1970s. Originally depicted as a corrupted, ancient Egyptian predecessor of Captain Marvel, Black Adam fought his way to modern times to challenge the hero and his Marvel Family associates. Since the early 21st century, writers Jerry Ordway, Geoff Johns, and David S. Goyer have redefined Black Adam as a corrupted antihero attempting to clear his name and reputation. He has been featured prominently in comic book series such as Justice Society of America (JSA), Villains United, Infinite Crisis, and 52, elevating his prominence in the DC Universe. In 2009, Black Adam was ranked as IGN’s 16th-greatest comic book villain of all time.

Dwayne Johnson brought the character to life in the 2022 film Black Adam, set in the DC Extended Universe (DCEU). The upcoming sequel, Black Adam 2: Superman vs Black Adam (2024), will feature Dwayne Johnson reprising his role as Black Adam and Zachary Levi as Shazam, alongside Superman in a thrilling showdown that fans have eagerly anticipated.