Which characters have the power of shapeshifting? 7 iconic examples, explained

Well, it’s no doubt that shapeshifting is one of the coolest superpowers out there. You can look like anyone, be anywhere — and completely throw your enemies off.

Honestly, who wouldn’t want that kind of flexibility? Imagine showing up to work as your boss just to give everyone the day off, or turning into a bird to skip traffic — convenient and a bit mischievous!

But in the world of comics, shapeshifting isn’t just about pulling off pranks or disguises — it’s often tied to deeper themes: identity, acceptance, survival. Some superheroes use it to hide, some use it to fight… and others, well, they just have a lot of fun with it!

There are quite a few heroes — and some who blur the line — who’ve made this ability their trademark. So, if you’ve ever asked, “Which superheroes can shapeshift?” — here are 7 of the most iconic superheroes that come to mind, with each offering something a little different.

7 iconic characters that have the power of shapeshifting

1) Mystique (Marvel)

If we’re talking shapeshifting superheroes, it’s impossible not to start with Mystique. She’s easily one of the most famous in the Marvel universe. Blue skin, yellow eyes, and an ability that lets her mimic any human being down to the last detail!

Mystique’s not just about copying appearances — she can take on voices, fingerprints, even retinal scans. Basically, she can walk into any room as anyone, and nobody would blink. Now that’s power!

But what makes her interesting isn’t just the skill — it’s how she uses it. She’s been a villain, a freedom fighter, a mother, a spy. Her shifting identity matches her constantly changing allegiances. She doesn’t just become other people — she uses it to manipulate entire situations. Dangerous and fascinating!

2) Martian Manhunter (DC)

Martian Manhunter, aka J’onn J’onzz, is one of the heavy hitters in the DC universe. He’s got a whole list of superhero powers like telepathy, flight, and phasing through walls — but his shapeshifting ability is top-tier!

He can shift into any person, animal, creature — doesn’t matter. Want him to turn into a dragon? Done. A ghostly mist? Also doable. He’s pulled off some mind-blowing transformations.

What’s cool is that he doesn’t always use this power for combat — sometimes it’s to connect with others, or understand humans better. As an alien living among us, his transformations are just as emotional as they are physical. He’s always adapting, always observing, and his shapeshifting reflects that.

3) Ms. Marvel (Marvel)

Kamala Khan’s powers started out with some classic shapeshifting. One of the first things she did after getting her abilities was turn into her hero, Captain Marvel. Yep — blonde hair, outfit, everything.

Over time, though, her powers evolved into what she calls “embiggening” — she can stretch her body, grow massive fists, or shrink down when needed. It’s kind of a mix between elasticity and transformation.

What’s special about Kamala is how her powers connect to her personal journey. She starts off unsure of herself, trying to become someone else. But as she grows into her role as a hero, she starts embracing her own identity. Her powers became a unique reflection of that.

4) Beast Boy (DC)

Beast Boy brings a much more upbeat vibe to this list superheroes. He’s one of the most fun shapeshifters around — and one of the most loved, especially by Teen Titans fans.

Garfield Logan can transform into any animal. Think lion, hawk, gorilla, T-Rex — there’s no limit as long as the creature exists… or even existed! And he pulls it off instantly, often switching between forms mid-fight to keep enemies guessing.

His animal forms always keep a touch of his personality — mainly his bright green color and playful energy. Sure, he can be goofy, but when things get serious,this superhero can turn into something fierce in a heartbeat.

5) Morph (Marvel)

As his name suggests, Morph can take on the appearance of any person, right down to their voice and mannerisms. He is quick, clever, and uses his abilities both in combat and for comic relief.

What sets Morph apart is his personality. Unlike some other shapeshifters who use their powers for stealth or manipulation, Morph genuinely enjoys goofing around with his transformations. He often uses them to cheer up his teammates or confuse enemies mid-battle. He’s got a heart of gold and a flair for theatrics.

His light-hearted nature and loyalty make him a refreshing take on the shapeshifting archetype. He proved that you don’t have to be broody or mysterious to have a powerful and useful gift.

6) Spawn (Image Comics)

Spawn doesn’t shapeshift in the traditional sense, but the way his suit works gives him a terrifying edge. Al Simmons was a government assassin who made a deal with a demon to come back to Earth — and he didn’t return empty-handed.

Spawn wears a living, symbiotic suit that can change form — he can grow spikes, whip out chains, turn his cape into wings, even blend in by morphing into someone more “normal.” It’s creepy and insanely versatile!

His look is always shifting based on what he needs in the moment — and since the suit feeds on necroplasm, the transformations can get wild. Whether he’s facing demons or thugs, he uses his suit to terrify enemies.

7) Plastic Man (DC)

Plastic Man is what happens when you give a shapeshifter a sense of humor and zero shame. Once a small-time crook named Eel O’Brian, he fell into some chemicals and came out stretchy, bendy, and basically impossible to injure.

He can turn into anything. A chair? Done. A trampoline? You got it. A balloon version of himself to float away? Of course. It’s goofy and over-the-top, but that’s exactly why he works.

Under all the jokes and chaos, though, Plastic Man is actually super effective. He’s unpredictable, impossible to contain, and way more powerful than people give him credit for. Never underestimate a dude who can turn into a washing machine mid-fight!

Final thoughts

Shapeshifting isn’t just a gimmick — it’s one of the most layered, creative powers in comics. Whether it’s used for stealth, combat, survival, or just for fun, these heroes (and a few anti-heroes) show just how wild and meaningful this ability can be.

They may change shape constantly, but their impact on the superhero world is without a doubt permanent!