As a young man, William Asmodeus Zard was a criminal gun man who was soon captured by the police. During his time in prison, Zard decided that crime was like a business and to succeed he would need to practice new and different methods. Upon his release, Zard travelled to Tibet where he studied the mystical arts. While there he learned the method of Astral projection, hypnotism and he also taught himself Black Magic, using the latter to kill the lama who had been his teacher.

Returning to America, Zard used his new skills to launch his criminal career as the Wizard.

Deeply cynical about humanity, the Wizard believed everyone was a criminal and only those who were afraid of being caught did not get involved in criminal activity. Hence the Wizard believed that the Justice Society were really criminals and he offered to become their partner in crime. When the JSA members refused, the Wizard challenged them to stop a series of crimes and he unsuccessfully tried to kill them. Finally convinced that the JSA were indeed honest, the Wizard escaped.

A short time later the Wizard organised the Injustice Society - a criminal organisation that tried to sieze control of the United States - but was once again thwarted by the Justice Society.

Over the years, the Wizard greatly increased his magical knowledge and abilities. In an attempt to gain revenge on Black Canary, the Wizard gave her infant daughter the sonic powers she has learned to control in adulthood.

Years later the Wizard became a member of the Crime Champions and once again clashed with the JSA and the JLA.