In an unexpected move, announced via Popverse, DC Comics has canceled its new mature-readers Red Hood series, pulling the plug on the very day the first issue hit shelves. The decision came swiftly after controversial social media comments made by the series’s writer, Gretchen Felker-Martin.
The series, which was spun off from the currently delayed Batman: H2SH storyline, was meant to be DC’s first ongoing Black Label comic to exist within mainstream continuity. It was set to follow the anti-heroes Red Hood (Jason Todd) and Huntress as they teamed up in the new city, New Angelique.
In a statement to retailers, DC announced the cancellation of all future issues and offered refunds for all copies of the debut issue. When asked for further comment, DC cited its “standards of conduct,” stating that any public comments that could be seen as promoting violence or hostility are inconsistent with the company’s values.
Even before the controversy that led to its cancellation, the series faced an uphill battle with fans. This was due to some not liking author Gretchen Felker-Martin’s past comments, Jason’s new costume design, or the direction of the character.
With the series now officially canceled, the debate over his portrayal has come to an abrupt end.
