Abused as a child by his construction worker father, Dirk Garthwaite grew up to be a violent demolitions expert who was fired for his temper. Putting together a dark green and light purple costume, Dirk became the Wrecker, using his father's crowbar to commit his crimes. During a robbery, he interrupted a ceremony performed by Loki and his ally the Norn Queen, and his crowbar wound up becoming enchanted. With new powers at his disposal, Wrecker fought Thor, and was defeated by the thunder god's lover, Lady Sif. Since then, Wrecker, alone or as part of the Wrecking Crew, has fought and been humiliated by Thor. He also has fought some of Earth's other heroes over the years such as the Avengers.