Hornet is an identity used by five fictional characters appearing in American comic books published by Marvel Comics: two supervillains, and three superheroes. Both the first and third versions have suffered from physical disabilities.

Although the armor of the third Hornet first appeared in Spider-Man as one of the four new superheroes Peter Parker had taken on, this version first appeared in Slingers #0 and was created by Joseph Harris, Todd Dezago, and Mike Wieringo. Speculation that the deceased Hornet in Wolverine vol. 3 #23 was not Eddie, but instead someone else who took on the name and costume, has been disproven by The Loners writer C. B. Cebulski, and The Loners #2 states that Hornet was indeed killed by Wolverine.

Scotty McDowell is a wheelchair-using criminologist who assists in Spider-Woman's cases. He is kidnapped by mad scientist Karl Malus, who injects him with a formula containing insect DNA. However, Scotty does not display any initial effects from the injection.

Scotty later develops superhuman strength, insect-like wings, and the ability to generate bursts of electricity, but he remains unable to walk. He decides to become the superhero Hornet, but over time he becomes aggressive and resentful of Spider-Woman. After subduing Hornet, Spider-Woman learns that Malus had given him powers for the sole purpose of having him kill Spider-Woman. Spider-Woman purges the formula from Scotty's bloodstream, stripping him of his powers and aggression.

Spider-Woman learned that although the formula did make Scotty more aggressive, the resentment he felt was real. Scotty admits that he had been in love with Spider-Woman, but felt that she did not notice him. He was also jealous of the attention garnered with the woman's heroic deeds. This puts a strain on their friendship, and Spider-Woman ends their "working relationship". Scotty accepts this as well, taking a job farther away to preserve what was left of their friendship.

After he is accused of murder during the Identity Crisis storyline, Peter Parker utilizes Hornet and three other identities to continue fighting crime without being caught. As Hornet, Peter utilizes gauntlets based on Ben Reilly's web-shooters and a wing harness created by Hobie Brown.

Peter used the Hornet identity with great success for several days, being a popular hero with the media after his debut featured him thwarting the Looter's attempt to rob the Daily Bugle. However, Vulture realizes that Hornet is actually Spider-Man after recognizing his characteristic banter and exposes him. Peter abandons the Hornet persona, and soon after clears his name.

Eddie McDonough is a science whiz who compensates for his palsied right arm with a knack for inventing. He is given the Hornet costume by Black Marvel and modifies it to enhance his strength while remaining lightweight. With the suit enhancing his strength, nobody but Hornet's teammate Dusk notices his disability.^{[volume and issue needed]}