Tony's Superhero Saturdays™: Goliath of Disney's Gargoyles — The Protector in Stone

This week on Tony’s Superhero Saturdays™, I’m spotlighting a hero carved from legend and brought to life through one of the most compelling animated series of the 1990s — Goliath, leader of the Gargoyles.

A Legend Awakens

Goliath first appeared in Gargoyles, a groundbreaking animated series created by Greg Weisman that premiered on Disney in 1994. The show was known for its dark tone, complex story arcs, Shakespearean themes, and multicultural mythology. At its center stood Goliath — a towering, noble warrior from 10th-century Scotland who led a clan of gargoyles, creatures cursed to turn to stone by day.

The Curse and the Future

After being betrayed and magically frozen in stone for a thousand years, Goliath and his clan awaken atop a Manhattan skyscraper in modern-day New York. Suddenly thrust into a world of technology, corruption, and modern villainy, Goliath resumes his role as protector — not just of his clan, but of the city itself.

A Voice That Echoes Power

Goliath’s gravitas was immortalized by actor Keith David, whose deep, commanding voice brought the character an unmatched dignity and strength. David’s performance helped elevate the series into something timeless and powerful, endearing Goliath to fans across generations.

Why Goliath Matters

What makes Goliath such an enduring character isn’t just his strength — it’s his unwavering moral compass. He believes in justice, loyalty, and redemption. He grapples with grief, loss, and the burden of leadership, yet never falters in his duty to do what is right. In a world that often misunderstands him, Goliath chooses love over vengeance, reason over rage, and protection over pride.

Goliath's Clan and Companions

Goliath is not a solitary protector — his strength and heart are deeply rooted in his clan, a loyal group of warriors who share his burden, his battles, and his dreams of peace. Each member of the clan brings something unique to the team and to Goliath’s own journey.

• Hudson: The clan’s elder and former leader. Wise, seasoned, and full of humility, Hudson serves as Goliath’s advisor and father figure. His grounded wisdom often tempers Goliath’s fiery passion.

  
  

• Brooklyn: The second-in-command and one of the most impulsive and independent members of the clan. Over time, he grows into a capable leader himself. His sarcasm and youthful fire contrast with Goliath’s stern resolve, yet their respect for one another is deep.

  
  

• Broadway: Gentle, kind-hearted, and surprisingly insightful, Broadway’s size masks his sensitivity and intelligence. He has a love for food and film, and often reminds Goliath of the importance of compassion.

  
  

• Lexington: The smallest and most tech-savvy of the clan, Lexington embraces modern technology and is fascinated by human invention. His intellect and curiosity help the clan adapt to their new world, and Goliath often entrusts him with problem-solving roles.

  
  

• Bronx: The clan’s loyal, dog-like gargoyle beast. Fierce in battle and faithful beyond words, Bronx is more than a pet — he’s family. His instincts often help the clan navigate danger.

These gargoyles are not just allies; they are Goliath’s chosen family — survivors of a thousand-year curse who rely on each other for strength, purpose, and love. Goliath’s leadership is not based on dominance, but on loyalty, sacrifice, and trust. He carries the weight of their hopes, and in turn, they carry his.

• Elisa Maza: A brave NYPD detective who becomes Goliath’s closest ally and love interest. Their interracial and interspecies relationship was groundbreaking for 90s TV.

  
  

• Demona: Once Goliath’s mate, she turns against humanity and becomes one of the show’s most tragic and complex villains.

  
  

• David Xanatos: A wealthy manipulator and recurring antagonist whose morally gray schemes constantly challenge Goliath’s resolve.

Angela: Daughter of Stone and Spirit

One of the most pivotal relationships in Goliath’s life is with his daughter, Angela. Born from the magical Avalon and raised by Princess Katharine, the Magus, and Guardian Tom, Angela meets Goliath later in the series during the Avalon World Tour arc. Their reunion is tender but complex, as Goliath initially struggles to reconcile his stoic leadership with the emotional depth of fatherhood.

Angela challenges Goliath to open his heart, soften his guarded demeanor, and embrace connection beyond duty. Through her, he discovers a deeper capacity for love, protection, and legacy. She represents hope, new beginnings, and the future of the gargoyle race — and through her, Goliath grows not just as a leader, but as a father.

Best Goliath-Centric Episodes

• "Awakening" (Parts 1–5) – The origin story of Goliath and his clan. These episodes set the foundation for Goliath’s moral compass, heartbreak, and transition into the modern world.

  
  

• "Deadly Force" – A powerful episode centered around gun violence, where Broadway accidentally shoots Elisa. Goliath’s reaction is filled with rage, remorse, and deep care, showing his emotional range and moral seriousness.

  
  

• "Long Way to Morning" – Goliath, injured and vulnerable, protects Hudson and Elisa while being hunted. The episode showcases his grit, determination, and honor under pressure.

  
  

• "Shadows of the Past" – A haunting journey into Goliath’s guilt and trauma as he confronts hallucinations and memories at Castle Wyvern. A psychologically rich exploration of who he is beneath the stone.

  
  

• "The Mirror" – When Puck uses magic to change all of Manhattan’s humans into gargoyles, Goliath is forced to confront his feelings about humanity, transformation, and acceptance.

  
  

• "The Gathering" and "Avalon" arcs – These expansive storylines delve into Goliath’s relationship with Angela, his spiritual evolution, and his broader role in protecting not just New York, but the mystical balance of the world.

These episodes reveal the layers of Goliath — his pain, his nobility, and his unwavering dedication to doing what’s right even when it’s hard.

A Hero for the Ages

Goliath isn’t just a guardian of the night — he’s a symbol of perseverance, dignity, and hope. He teaches us that true strength isn’t just physical — it’s emotional, spiritual, and moral. Goliath’s legend has endured because it speaks to our own desire to rise, protect, and love in a world that can be cruel and chaotic.

Final Thoughts

Whether watching Gargoyles as a child or discovering it as an adult, one thing remains true: Goliath is a hero worthy of our respect. His courage, heart, and timeless wisdom still inspire today.

If you’re enjoying Tony’s Superhero Saturdays, be sure to check out my superhero novel series S.O.L.A.D.™: Soldiers of Light Against Darkness™ — featuring original heroes facing down darkness with purpose and power.

Grab your signed copies at www.tyronetonyreedjr.com/the-shop.

Stay inspired. Stay heroic. And never forget: "We live again."