In perhaps one of the biggest and unexpected news from at ComicsPRO ’25 was the announcement of the launch of the new Batman ongoing series from the creative team of writer Matt Fraction and artist Jorge Jiménez. Though Fraction is perhaps best known for his work at Marvel and his creator-owned series, he is no stranger to DC Comics having penned a beloved Superman’s Pal Jimmy Olsen series back in 2019. This new Batman ongoing series marks his return to the publisher in quite some time.
In an official statement, Fraction explained what drew him to work on a new Batman ongoing book and what fans can expect from his take on the Caped Crusader:
“I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for Batman. It was the first comic I ever read,” said Fraction. “Jorge and I have a very superhero-forward kind of take on Batman. We’ve got a new Batmobile, we’ve got a new costume, we’ve got new characters, and we’ve got a lot of old ones too—good and bad; all the stuff that makes Batman the coolest character in comics. We want to celebrate it all.”
Jiménez meanwhile has a strong association with Batman having been involved in the creative runs of previous writers, Chip Zdarsky and James Tynion IV. The artist revealed how his style will differ from the previous creative runs:
“As a DC artist, I have to say this is something I’ve always dreamed of, and getting to do it alongside someone as amazing and talented as Matt is just incredible for me,” said Jiménez. “As for my work on Batman, the artistic side, I’ve poured years of hard work into this series. Over time, I’ve had to adapt to different styles and paces alongside James and Chip, learning and enjoying every step of the way. I’ve explored Gotham City from multiple angles, but more importantly, I’ve gradually built up more and more artistic tools that have led me to the current synthesis of my style.”
The new Batman #1 will mark only the fourth renumbering of the book.. By the launch of the Batman book this September, it will be its 85th year of publication
DC’s new Batman #1 becomes only the fourth renumbering for DC’s Batman comic book series in the title’s 84-year history.
The creative team also colorist Tomeu Morey and letterer Clayton Cowles. As fans can tell from the revealed art, Batman will be sporting a new blue and gray costume. In addition, readers can expect a new Batmobile and a new look for Gotham City.
Regarding the new suit, Jiménez revealed:
“For this new chapter, we’re crafting a revamped aesthetic, bringing back Batman’s blue suit in a definitive way,” said Jiménez. “It’s a small shift meant to feel both classic and fresh, subtly evolving while staying true to the original design we’ve used in recent years. At the same time, I’m working on Gotham City’s visual identity, giving it a fresh approach that sets it apart from my previous takes. I’m aiming for a slight pop influence, something that subtly nods to classic stories while keeping the dark and ominous feel of contemporary Batman.
Fraction added:
“Part of the reason Batman has lasted as long and has resonated as loudly as he has as character is that he’s incredibly resilient,” said Fraction. “He can be all kinds of things to all different people all at the same time — whether that’s in the comics or in animation or in movies.”
In terms of direction, the publisher revealed that the creative team “will be telling a series of connected but self-contained stories when they begin their run in September. Every issue could be a new adventure, a new style, and a new challenge for the creative team to put in front of Batman.”
More details on September’s Batman #1 to be revealed soon.
