Damian Wayne takes center stage in DC's latest world-changing event, Lazarus Planet, and writer Mark Waid believes the epic storyline is the perfect opportunity for the fifth Robin to grow.
"Damian's shell of self-confidence and arrogance is more of a disguise than Bruce's," Waid said in an interview with CBR. "It's still there. I mean, he's still an arrogant little jerk, but doing [the story] from his point of view gives me a chance to talk about self-doubt. It gives me a chance to talk about Damian having to step up to Batman's reputation. Everybody looks to him because Batman says, 'Listen to the kid.' With that endorsement, he's got to make good [on it]."
Damian Wayne's Gradual Evolution
Lazarus Planet spins out of Batman vs. Robin, another series penned by Waid that saw Robin mind-controlled by the ancient Chinese demon Nezha. Tricked into helping Nezha accrue power, Damian warred against his father and saw Batman suffer a brutal wound in an effort to save his life.
The recently released title Lazarus Planet: Alpha kicks off the event. It features a now-lucid Robin stepping up in the aftermath of his father's injury to command a motley crew of allies, each of whom are dealing with intense power changes in the wake of a volcanic explosion. The one-shot starts with a weakened Batman telling the likes of Blue Beetle, Supergirl and Zatanna to listen to Damian -- a marked change from the Dark Knight's usual tendency to instantly take command of dire situations.
The Fourth Robin's Bad Reputation
Damian Wayne debuted in 2006 in the now-classic Grant Morrison story "Batman and Son," and quickly became notorious for his smarmy attitude and willingness to use violence. The fourth Robin matured over the past 17 years and has taken on key roles in both the Bat Family and the Teen Titans, but his arrogance remains a defining character trait. Nevertheless, Damian's 2021 Robin solo series saw him making close friends in the Lazarus fighting tournament and even developing a love interest. Lazarus Planet continues this trend of deepening his characterization -- this time as a leader for his fellow vigilantes and metahumans.
Lazarus Planet runs until Feb. 21 and encompasses seven one-shot comics and nine tie-ins. These include Alpha, Assault on Krypton, We Once Were Gods, Legends Reborn, Next Evolution, Dark Fate and Omega. Lazarus Planet: Alpha is written by Mark Waid, illustrated by Riccardo Federici, colored by Brad Anderson and lettered by Steve Wands. The one-shot is on sale now from DC.
Source: CBR