Updated August 10, 2023 17.2K votes 2.4K voters 382.3K views
Voting Rules
Vote for your favorite mysteriously masked hero or villain.
In fiction, masks are often used to disguise secret identities. These masks usually become as iconic, if not more so, than the characters who wear them - even if they often look pretty uncomfortable or embarrassingly bad. Often times characters will don a mask in order to protect their identity while living their secret life. Other fictional characters use masks to cover up disfigurement.
Horror movies often use masks as a way to hide the identity of the killer, especially since it’s more terrifying to wonder what sort of face is so scary that it needs to be hidden away. The masks in Friday the 13th and Scream have become far more well-known than the killers that wore them and are often worn as Halloween costumes.
The fictional characters on this list wear masks for a myriad of reasons, from hiding secret identities to scaring potential murder victims. Who is your favorite fictional character to ever don a mask?
Peter Parker wears a mask to hide his identity as Spider-Man, symbolizing his transformation from a timid teenager to a heroic figure. The mask allows him to balance his dual life and protect those he loves.
The dark, mechanized mask of Darth Vader is not only his symbol of power but a life-support system. It represents his transformation from Anakin Skywalker to a Sith Lord, reflecting his internal struggle and lost humanity.
Appears In: Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope, Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi, Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones, Star Wars: The Clone Wars
Bruce Wayne's cowl is a symbol of fear and justice. As Batman, he becomes a vigilante in Gotham City, with his mask serving as a protective gear and a way to separate his public and secret identities.
Appears In: Batman Beyond, Young Justice, Batman, Batman: The Animated Series, Justice League Unlimited
Wade Wilson's mask conceals his disfigured appearance and symbolizes his irreverent personality. It's a key aspect of his anti-hero persona, reflecting his humor, cynicism, and self-awareness.
Appears In: Deadpool, X-Men Origins: Wolverine, Hulk Vs, Marvel Universe
Tony Stark's mask is part of his advanced armor, providing protection and technological capabilities. It represents his genius, ambition, and transformation into a self-appointed guardian of world peace.
Appears In: Iron Man: Armored Adventures, The Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes, The Super Hero Squad Show, The Incredible Hulk, Ultimate Avengers
Powers & Abilities: Flight, Hand-to-hand combat, Superhuman strength, Energy blast, Compliance professional
The Guy Fawkes mask worn by V in V for Vendetta symbolizes rebellion and anonymity. It's a rallying symbol against oppression, reflecting his fight for freedom and individuality.
