This Day in Comics: Rook Blonko Debuts in Ben 10: Omniverse

On August 1, 2012, Rook Blonko made his debut in Ben 10: Omniverse during the episode “The More Things Change: Part 1.” The episode introduced Rook as a major new figure in the Ben 10 universe and set up one of the most important partnerships in Ben Tennyson’s later adventures. For fans looking back at the character’s first appearance, the debut is also noted by This Day in Comics as part of the August 1 comic and pop culture timeline. Rook Blonko Arrives on Earth Rook’s introduction begins when Max Tennyson calls him to Earth to become the new partner of his grandson, Ben Tennyson. At this point in Ben’s life, he is already known as a young hero with plenty of experience battling alien threats, but Rook brings something different to the table. He is disciplined, calm, highly trained, and much more tactical than Ben. That contrast becomes clear almost immediately. Rook first meets Ben inside Mr. Baumann’s shop, where he is quietly eating while disguised. Ben, transformed as Cannonbolt, sits next to him and casually asks if he can have his food. Before Cannonbolt can eat, a trio of alien criminals arrives and chaos breaks out. A Calm Hero in the Middle of Chaos While Cannonbolt jump...