Name: Dr. Henry "Hank" McCoy
Code Name: Beast
Age: 29
Birthplace: Dunfee, Illinois
Occupation: Former biochemist, current X-Man and teacher/research scientist at Xavier's school.
Height: 5'11"
Weight: 350 lbs
Eye Color: yellow
Hair Color: Blue

Mutation: The most obvious aspect of Hank's mutation is that he is completely covered in blue fur. He also possesses super-human strength, agility, enducance, speed and dexterity, as well as an extremely advanced intellect.

History: Hank is unique among mutants in several ways. First, there is probable cause to believe that his mutation is not quite natural; his father, Norton, was exposed to a massive dose of radiation in a nuclear accident. Although Norton himself was unharmed damage was done to his genes, causing his son to be born with abnormally large hands and feet. This is another factor which sets Hank apart from his fellow mutants, as mutations are not usually apparent until puberty.

As Hank grew, the fact that he was different from "normal" children became more and more noticable. His intellectual and physical skills greatly surpassed those of his classmates, attracting the attention of Professor Xavier. Hank was among Xavier's first students, and he eventually joined the X-Men with the codename "Beast."

After completing several doctoral degrees under Professor Xavier's tutelage, Hank left the school to pursue a career as a research scientist in genetics with the Brand Corporation. In the course of his work there, he discovered a chemical compound which he believed could trigger mutations. Unfortunately he had begun to doubt the intentions of his employers, and was uneasy about going to them with his discovery until he knew for certain exactly what he was dealing with. He therefore tested the serum on himself. The results were immediate and dramatic; the growth of thick blue fur, elongation of the canine teeth, and an increase in his already super-human strength.

Although his intellect was unaffected by the transformation, Hank could no longer hope to continue his career as a researcher in the human world. He retreated to his familiar home with Xavier and the X-Men, determined to continue his research in that venue.