The Warriors Three are a group of fictional characters appearing in American comic books published by Marvel Comics. The characters served as supporting cast members in Thor. The Warriors Three are the Asgardians Fandral, Hogun, and Volstagg. Though the characters are gods of Asgard, they are original creations of Marvel Comics and not based on characters from Norse mythology.
The Warriors Three have appeared in various media adaptations of Thor, including the 2011 Marvel Cinematic Universe film Thor, its 2013 sequel , and the 2017 sequel . They appear as archival footage in .
Although not based on mythological Norse mythology characters, they were each inspired by a different source, Fandral being based on actor Errol Flynn, Hogun based on actor Charles Bronson, and Volstagg being modeled after Shakespeare's John Falstaff.
The Warriors Three were the stars in issue #30 of the tryout series Marvel Spotlight. Though it did not result in the characters getting their own series, the comedy-oriented issue became a fan favorite and has been cited by writer Len Wein as one of his favorite stories: "It was just such a joy to write, and the late, great John Buscema's artwork didn't exactly hurt it no-how."
In late 2010 (with cover dates January–April 2011), the Warriors Three got their own four-issue mini-series, written by Bill Willingham and illustrated by Neil Edwards.
For some time, Volstagg was the coward of the group, succeeding more with luck than skill. He gained courage over time and is now more than ever, likely to be found on the front lines of battle. They first appeared when going on a quest with Thor and other Asgardians to prevent Ragnarok.
The trio have multiple adventures with their friend Thor, such as when they battled the Thermal Man. Thor #170 (November 1969). Marvel Comics. For a time, they quest with him in outer space; one of their adventures involved saving an alien world from a naive tentacled beast. Thor #256 (February 1977). Marvel Comics.
In the limited series (published in 2005, but chronologically set much earlier), Thor and the Warriors Three are sent on a quest as penance for accidentally killing an enemy giant during a time of peace. Although they fail in their quest, through the use of each warrior's unique capabilities, the adventure eventually comes to a good end.
The group is allied with the earth-bound group the New Mutants. During the mutants' first trip to Asgard, they drank and celebrated with Roberto da Costa (Sunspot). During the group's second visit, the Three encounter new members of the group and do not find their story of Hela's plan to kill Odin believable. Volstagg's children do and free the group, helping them on their way. Tabitha Smith, Warlock and Hrimhari rescue the Three from the fatal attentions of Queen Ula and her hive. Hrimhari's honor is enough to convince the Three and Queen Ula to join in on the attempt to defeat Hela. Other Asgardians join in on the fight and soon, Odin is saved. The New Mutants #83–87 (1989–90). Marvel Comics.
When Bragi, the god of poetry, becomes lost in the wilds of Asgard, just a little bit before he was due to entertain at All-Father Odin's Mid-Summer celebration, the Warriors Three braved multiple problems to rescue the poet and bring him home. Marvel Fanfare #13. Marvel Comics.
Another Fanfare issue focused on the wife of Ulik. Despite the many attacks by Ulik against Asgardians, his wife feels she has nowhere else to go when she thinks her husband is in trouble. Hogun wants nothing to do with her, but Volstagg convinces him to at least consult with Fandral. The conclusion of the story has Ulik yet again attacking.
Ragnarok seemingly destroyed all of Asgard and all the people residing there, which would leave all three members of The Warriors Three deceased. Thor vol. 2 #85 (December 2004). Marvel Comics.
In "Secret Invasion", the Warriors Three are vital to the Asgardian victory over the Skrulls. Secret Invasion: Thor #1–3 (2008). Marvel Comics. They are part of the defense effort when Norman Osborn leads a villain army against Asgard. Marvel Legends #63 (October 2011). Marvel Comics. The New Avengers #63 (May 2010). Marvel Comics.
After Loki's machinations to banish Thor come to fruition, the Warriors Three voluntarily leave Asgard to live in the mortal world, heading back to Broxton, Oklahoma to take over the local diner abandoned by Bill. Thor #603. Marvel Comics. Along with many other heroes and gods, they attend the wake of Hercules, who had fallen in battle. This meeting takes place in Athena's temple in Greece. Hercules: Fall of an Avenger #1–2 (2010). Marvel Comics.
The trio are featured in their own limited series. In issue three, they encounter Fenris Wolf. This backstory shows the Warriors first teamed up as the vainglorious duo of Volstagg and Fandral, to out-do each other in tasks. Hogun was a shy intellectual who went with to serve as an impartial observer. Warriors Three #3 (February 2011). Marvel Comics.
With Volstagg serving as a politician, Fandral and Hogun acquire a new job alongside Hildegarde, who has fought with them against many dangers. Under the leadership of All-Father Thor, they are asked to serve as Asgardian jail wardens. Fandral calls this new trio "The Ministers Three." Thor vol. 5 #16 (2019). Marvel Comics.
During the "Empyre" storyline, the Warriors Three defend Little Asgard from the Cotati invaders. Empyre: Avengers #2. Marvel Comics.
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