Detective Chimp

Origin

Detective Chimp (or D.C.) was captured by a man named Fred Thorpe in the equatorial region of Africa in 1953 and intended to be used as side show act known as “Bobo the Detective Chimp.” He was essentially trained by Fred to answer pre-determined questions using a system of signals. Despite his removal from Africa by Thorpe, he still forms a strong bond with the man that had given him a simpler and safer life. During a trip to Florida, Rex, the Wonder Dog takes D.C. to the Fountain of Youth and after benefiting from its waters D.C. gains the ability to talk to all living creatures. Eventually Fred Thorpe dies and D.C. sets out on his own as a detective for hire.

Creation

Detective Chimp’s first appearance was in Rex the Wonder Dog #4 in 1952

Character Evolution

The character started with a less serious depiction, but gradually over time has become a serious character and one of relevant to the mainstream DC universe as a member of various important groups.

Major Story Arcs

As a character that appeared sporadically throughout the golden and silver ages, D.C.’s stories were usually self- contained with generally little in the way of continuity. His adventures brought him into contact with numerous famous detectives, such as John Jones (the alter ego of the Martian Manhunter.) He was also employed for a time by the Bureau of Amplified Humans. Due to the fact that he is a chimpanzee, a lot of his cases were thrown out of the legal system for lack of credibility. In so doing, he began to develop an addiction to nicotine and to alcohol. It was also during this time (though this is told retroactively) that he joined the Croatoan Society, a group of detectives. I n recent years he has been shown to be a member of Shadowpact.

During Infinite Crisis he assembles a group of heroes to attack the Spectre.

New 52

Detective Chimp is mentioned by Ambush Bug in the Channel 52 News feature.

Powers and Abilities

After his visit to the Fountain of Youth, Detective Chimp was granted numerous abilities. These include an exceptional intelligence above the range of most humans, the ability to communicate with any living creature and eternal youth. His abilities as a detective are also quite advanced with years of experience. He also maintains the characteristics of a chimpanzee including being significantly stronger than average humans and an increased agility.