(Image Source: DC / Jim Lee)
The long-awaited sequel to Hush is fast approaching its release date. However, DC Comics is being unusually secretive regarding the upcoming Batman storyline. Yet they have released ten preview pages from the first chapter, as well two pages from the second.
Written by Jeph Loeb with art by Jim Lee, Batman: Hush is widely regarded as one of the best stories ever to feature the Dark Knight. The plot finds Batman besieged by upgraded enemies, apparently organized by the titular new villain. The plot established Hush as one of the preeminent enemies of the Dark Knight, and set-up a true romance between Batman and Catwoman.
Six fully-colored and four uncolored pages from Hush 2: Part 1 may be viewed below.
Additionally, DC has released two uncolored pages from Batman #159, aka Hush 2, Part 2.
Hush 2’s Batman story is still a mystery
(Image Source: DC / Jim Lee)
Despite this plethora of preview pages, DC has kept quiet as to the story of Batman: Hush 2. Unsurprisingly, the story does involve the return of Hush. However, the early covers also hinted at The Joker being involved.
This seems to have been born out by the most recent wave of artwork. The Clown Prince of Crime is clearly visible in the fully-colored pages. However, it appears he is once again repeating his infamous Joker Fish scam, where he put a smile on the face of Gotham’s sea life and tried to claim a cut of all fish sales due to their using his likeness.
The new art also shows the Barbara Gordon Batgirl and Nightwing. The preview of Part 2 also seems to show Dr. Leslie Thompkins and an incident in the Park Row neighborhood where Batman’s parents died. This seems on-brand with the original Hush, which made extensive use of both the Bat-Family and Batman’s rogue’s gallery.
Batman #158 arrives in comic shops everywhere on March 26, 2025.
