Randall Crowne is a very powerful businessman and mayoral candidate in New York City. During a campaign speech he almost fell victim to the monstrous
Freak, who smelled the scent of
Spider-Man in the vicinity. Crowne was unappreciative of Spider-Man's rescue. The attack of the mysterious glider-rider known as
Menace on Crowne's opponents tarnished his reputation, fueling rumors that he sponsored the attacks himself. Adding fuel to the fire of speculation was Menace's explosive attacks on his opponent Bill Hollister, which uncovered illegal sweat shops working the corporate umbrella of Crowne Industries. Crowne is supported by Norman Osborn, Dexter Bennett and the DB news paper.