(Image Source: DC / Francesco Francavilla)
DC has introduced a number of revamped heroes and villains into the new Absolute Universe setting. However, there is one hero whose absence from Absolute Batman has been notable. Thankfully, a new teaser cover suggests that this beloved character will soon be fighting alongside the Dark Knight in this twisted new world.
The tease came in a press release regarding Absolute Batman #20. Much of the blurb regarding the action of the issue is redacted. Indeed, all it confirms is that someone will be lost after a major battle and someone else will enter the scene ready to hunt. There is also a tease that “more than one secret will be revealed.” It is the partly redacted cover by Nick Dragotta, however, which offers more interesting information.
(Image Source: DC)
The preview cover depicts Absolute Batman, standing before a giant letter ‘R’. This is enclosed within a larger circle. This resembles the classic emblem worn by Batman‘s sidekick Robin. This seems to suggest that the Boy Wonder is about to be introduced into the Absolute Universe.
How Absolute Batman already foreshadowed Robin
It should be noted that earlier comics have already teased the existence of Robin. At least, the series has confirmed the existence of Dick Grayson in the Absolute Universe. Dick has a brief cameo in Absolute Batman #9, where he was revealed to be an EMT in Gotham City.
(Image Source: DC / Nick Dragotta)
It was also revealed that Dick really hated Batman, whose battle with the local gangs increased his workload. He was reduced to hijacking a rickshaw to carry the injured to the hospital, due to the the city running out of ambulances and ride-shares. Dick had another cameo in Absolute Batman #14, once again cursing the Dark Knight while watching the news.
(Image Source: DC)
It is unclear just how Dick Grayson might wind up becoming Robin in this reality. Indeed, there is little reason to believe he will be an ally of the Dark Knight. It would be a major change if the person going on the hunt in Absolute Batman #20 is Robin and their target is Batman.
Absolute Batman #20 arrives in comic shops everywhere on May 13, 2026.
