"Vision Quest" May Bring Back Forgotten Human Torch - Fans Examine D23 Stand

Jim Hammond bore the name Human Torch long before the Fantastic Four appeared.

At the D23 exhibition, Marvel unveiled an updated White Vision costume, but fans' attention was drawn to another part of the exhibit – an image of a figure engulfed in flames. Mechanical details are visible through the character's body, and elements on the chest and shoulders resemble later depictions of Jim Hammond.

Hammond is a synthetic human created by scientist Phineas Horton. He debuted in Marvel Comics #1 in 1939 and became the first Human Torch 22 years before Johnny Storm appeared. In the comics, the hero fought against evil during World War II and was part of the Invaders team alongside Captain America and Namor.

Hammond's appearance would fit the theme of "Vision Quest." The series will gather several androids and artificial intelligences from the history of the cinematic universe. Paul Bettany will return as White Vision, who has regained the memories of the original Vision and is now trying to understand his own identity.

James Spader will reprise his role as Ultron, while Emily Hampshire and Orla Brady will portray the human forms of artificial intelligences E.D.I.T.H. and F.R.I.D.A.Y. The cast also includes James D'Arcy, T'Nia Miller, and Ruairi O'Connor.

"Vision Quest" is set to premiere on October 14, 2026, on Disney+.