Conversation so far:
Who created The Shadow?
The Shadow's real name is Kent Allard, and he was a famed aviator who fought for the French during World War I.
How did he become The Shadow?
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The disguise works well because Allard and Cranston resemble each other (Dictator of Crime, 1941).
Who is Cranston?
Cranston, a "wealthy young man-about-town." In the pulps, Cranston is a separate character; Allard frequently disguises himself as Cranston.
Who is Allard?
The Shadow's real name is Kent Allard.

Question: Is Cranston a villian?
Self-contained rewrite: Is Cranston a villian in The Shadow?