Origin

The origin of the character was never revealed, introduced as a creature already involved in a scheme to bring down the Huntress (Helena Wayne).

Creation

Earthworm is a DC character created by Joey Cavalieri and Tim Burgard, first appearing in a secondary story in Wonder Woman #309.

Character Evolution

Earthworm's past is unknown but its assumed he lived within the sewer system of Gotham City for most of his life. While initially only an adversary of the Huntress, his powers were greatly enhanced by a deal struck with the demon Neron and fought against Guy Gardner Warrior team-mates after attacking a popular night-club.

Major Story Arcs

Black Market

Although born Herbert Hynde, he came to be known as Earthworm due to his appearance and ability to control vermin and alligators found within the sewer system. Already involved in various criminal activities, he was the mastermind behind the purchase of infants born to couples willing to give up their children to feed their drug addictions. Earthworm sold the children to childless couples in return for greater amounts of money to fund a group headed by Terry Marsh who sought to have vigilantes like the Huntress destroyed. Interrupting a transaction in which a baby was being delivered to the Earthworm, the Huntress was able to track down Earthworm and dismantle the network needed to support his nefarious venture. Confronting him, the Huntress rescued another baby in his possession after battling alligators and rodents but unfortunately was unable to apprehend Earthworm due his ability to contort his body through a locked gate of bars nearby.

Underworld Unleashed

In the New World Universe, Earthworm was part of the group of villains who took up the demon Neron on his offer to greatly enhance their powers at the expense of their souls. Working with Cheetah and Blackguard, the trio attacked the popular Warrior nightclub and destroyed the establishment, Earthworm killing several patrons and employees to feed his hunger for "surface-meat". The clone of Guy Gardner was able to defeat both Cheetah and Blackguard but was unable to apprehend Earthworm who escaped to the sewers with several victims. The real Guy Gardner recovering elsewhere, team-mates Desmond, Veronna and Arisia arrived in Earthworm's underworld lair and were able to defeat Earthworm when Desmond transformed into the Black Tiger, allowing Arisia to cryogenically freeze the villain.

Powers and Abilities

Earthworm is able to communicate and command sewer vermin, including extremely large alligators. He can slip through the smallest of spaces due to his thin and supple physiology and is able to see in the dark. After striking a deal with a demon, he became much more powerful, his body changing from lanky and thin to a larger and stronger physique.

Height: 6' 4"

Weight: 132 lbs (Earth 2) unknown (New Earth)

Eye Colour: Red

Hair Colour: Grey