Cable
A time-traveling son of Cyclops using his powers and foresight to build a better world.
Cable (Nathan Dayspring Askani’son Summers) is the time-traveling son of Cyclops and Madelyne Pryor, a clone of Jean Grey. Possessing mutant powers and knowledge of the future, he strives to bring about a better world. In this series, launched in 2004 following the cancellation of his solo title, he shares focus with Deadpool. Together they navigated humor, action, and intricate plotting for fifty issues until Marvel canceled the book to launch new ongoing series for both characters in 2008.
- Real Name
- Nathan Dayspring Askani’son Summers
- Origin
- Time Traveler from Future Timeline
Lore & Background
Cable's journey began when he was infected with a techno-organic virus, forcing him into a future where humanity faced extinction. In the Cable & Deadpool series, his goal is explicitly to change the world for the better. This mission led him to rebuild his space station, Graymalkin (renamed Providence), and invite the world's top thinkers there. His plans often involve drastic measures; he once threatened to throw all of Earth's nuclear weapons into space, forcing Nick Fury to send Captain America to infiltrate his base. Cable also demonstrated immense power by turning the entire world pink with a virus before restoring everyone days later. His connection to Deadpool is unique: after both were infected, Cable absorbed and then regurgitated Deadpool, mixing their DNA so that they could teleport together.
In Their Own Story
In the opening arc, "If Looks Could Kill," Cable and Deadpool meet when hired by The One World Church. Both become infected with a blue-turning virus. To survive, Cable absorbs Deadpool, mixes their DNA, and then throws him up. This act allows Cable to control the virus, turning the world pink before restoring it days later while claiming credit as "Saviour." Later, during "The Burnt Offering," Cable tries to espouse moderation by inviting philosophers to Providence but threatens leaders with missile destruction to force cooperation. When the X-Men attack, Cable confesses he wanted to be killed as an example. Injured by the Silver Surfer, he asks Deadpool to lobotomize him to save his life. By issue #44, Cable depowered and in his teens after a House of M reality fade, Deadpool teleports them both to Intercourse, Pennsylvania.
Reader's Guide
Cable operates as a strategic leader on Providence, supported by Chief of Security Johann Kriek and Chief of Staff Irene Merryweather. He relies heavily on Domino, his on/off confidante and lover, who understands his vision better than most. His powers include enhanced strength and telekinesis, though he has faced moments of depowerment, such as when he healed himself from a techno-organic alien graft in the "Thirty Pieces" arc or after burning out his restored powers to fix Deadpool's mind. He frequently interacts with the Six Pack (G.W. Bridge, Hammer, Domino, Solo, Anaconda, and Constrictor), who were hired by S.H.I.E.L.D. to watch him. Cable's presence often triggers high-stakes scenarios involving time travel, alien technology, or global threats, requiring his allies to adapt quickly to his shifting plans.
Did You Know?
- Cable and Deadpool's DNA was mixed after Cable absorbed and then vomited up Deadpool to survive a virus.
- Cable once used his enhanced powers to turn the entire world pink before restoring everyone days later.
- In issue #44, the series' recap pages were reimagined as an online blog written by Bob, Agent of Hydra.
- Cable asked Deadpool to lobotomize him in order to save his life after being injured by the Silver Surfer.
- After the House of M reality faded, Cable was left depowered and in his teens.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Cable really?
Cable is the time-displaced son of Cyclops and Madelyne Pryor, known in the future as Nathan Summers. He travels back to prevent apocalyptic events while fighting alongside heroes like Deadpool.
What powers does he have?
As a mutant, he possesses telepathic and telekinetic abilities enhanced by cybernetic implants from his future timeline. These tools allow him to manipulate technology and project energy blasts during combat.
Why did he team up with Deadpool?
Their partnership began in 2004 when Marvel launched a series focusing on their contrasting personalities and shared missions. This dynamic blend of action and humor ran for fifty issues before both characters received new solo titles in 2008.
What is his main goal?
He strives to alter history to create a better world by stopping threats that could destroy the timeline. His foresight into future dangers drives him to act as a guardian of reality across different eras.
How did their comic series conclude?
The specific Deadpool and Cable book concluded after fifty issues when Marvel decided to cancel it for new ongoing series. This marked the end of their dedicated team-up run while keeping both characters active in the universe.
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