Batman is dead. Long live Batman?

November 17, 3:07 PMComics ExaminerBrian Steinberg

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Lots of chatter these days about Batman. If you believe the hints, rumors and allegations out there, it sounds as if DC Comics is going to give Bruce Wayne, the guy who has worn the cape and cowl since 1927, a much needed rest.

At present, Batman is in the midst of a series which is supposed to change him for life (for more on this, check out today's USA Today story on coming developments for the Caped Crusader). What's more, DC is set to cancel a series of Batman-related titles: Nightwing, Robin and Birds of Prey. The guess is that the publisher is about to retool the characters, with Dick Grayson - the first Robin - about to assume the mantle of the Bat.

In the world of comics, where things stay the same year after year, this is huge! Marvel recently killed off Steve Rogers, the man who was Captain America since the days of World War Two. And subsequent issues focusing on a new version of the hero have won critical acclaim. That said, I find it hard to believe DC would abandon Bruce Wayne to the ages. Chances are this will be a year-long series that will let writers explore new depths, angles and stories for a character who has been around so long that it's hard to do anything new with him.

Meantime, look for months of promotion from DC as we see Nightwing, Robin and others all vie to be the next Dark Knight. Wonder what this does to the million-dollar movie franchise?