Comic book world reacts with shock as Thor becomes a woman

Comic book fans have reacted with shock after it was confirmed that the narrative for 'God of Thunder’, Thor, is set to move in an unexpected direction.

The Marvel hero is to become a heroine as the Marvel character will be a woman in its latest guise.

Created by the legendary comic book writer Stan Lee and based on a Norse god, Thor has been depicted in two Hollywood movies starring Australian actor Chris Hemsworth in the lead role.

The movies were a huge success, reeling in over a billion dollars at the box office. It is one of three changes Marvel are making to some of their big name characters with Captain America and Iron Man also set to be re-booted.

Meet #Marvel comics' new #Thor - she's not what you'd expect! Learn more & see exclusive art: http://t.co/gB3qJ2G6ee pic.twitter.com/7sDURs1z8p

— Marvel Entertainment (@Marvel) July 15, 2014

The new Thor series will debut in October and editor Wil Moss has ensured fans that this it is no spin-off and the character is not undergoing a sex change.

"The inscription on Thor’s hammer reads ‘Whosoever holds this hammer, if HE be worthy, shall possess the power of Thor.’ Well it’s time to update that inscription," he said.

"And this new Thor isn’t a temporary female substitute - she’s now the one and only Thor, and she is worthy!

Writer Jason Aaron was also quick to quell speculation that this is a new character.

"This is not She-Thor," he said.

"This is not Lady Thor. This is not Thorita. This is Thor. This is the THOR of the Marvel Universe. But it’s unlike any Thor we’ve ever seen before."

A statement on Marvel's website read: "THOR is the latest in the ever-growing and long list of female-centric titles that continues to invite new readers into the Marvel Universe.

"THOR will be the 8th title to feature a lead female protagonist and aims to speak directly to an audience that long was not the target for super hero comic books in America: women and girls."