10 Worst Times DC Comic Heroes Were Rebooted

DC frequently reboots its stories and characters, a fact not hidden from its audience. Some fans even consider it a common trait of the publisher, given their tendency to often revamp their continuity and characters. Over the years, they’ve acknowledged this practice, even poking fun at some of their more debated reboots. While some changes have endured over time, others have fallen short. Rebooting is usually a strategy DC employs to create balance and attract new readers, though with varying outcomes. For instance, The New 52 was notorious for its intended fresh start for new readers, as well as the misstep known as DCYou.

To put it simply, among the numerous disappointing reboots in the DC universe, there are ten standouts that truly fall flat. These range from those driven by plot changes to those initiated by publishing strategies – they represent the absolute low point in reboot history.

1) Nightwing, Ric Grayson

Initially, we find “Ric.” This character is none other than Dick Grayson, who suffered amnesia following an attack where he was shot in the head by KGBeast. During this period, his behavior was more reminiscent of Jason Todd rather than the admired hero fans were accustomed to. This was a tough time for Nightwing supporters, at least in terms of his character development.

Following a prolonged absence from editorial limbo, Dick reappeared once more. Modestly ashamed about his tenure as Ric (understandably so), he chose to step away as Nightwing temporarily. It wasn’t until the “Joker War” incident that he officially returned, and fans are delighted to welcome the character back in his original form.

2) Green Arrow, New 52

In this period, the depiction of Green Arrow continued the “Green Batman” trope, making him less appealing. This era also corresponded with the live-action Arrow television series on The CW, and unfortunately, Oliver Queen’s character lost his appeal during this time. However, it’s worth noting that this phase only persisted for a couple of years. Fortunately, Jeff Lemire’s undervalued run on Green Arrow revived some of the character’s charm. Despite the initial difficulties, Lemire’s work was a silver lining in an otherwise challenging situation. Additionally, Lemire has expressed interest in revisiting Green Arrow now that a more traditional version of the character has been reintroduced.

3) Superman, New 52

In this latest installment of New 52, we find Superman. While a younger, less seasoned Superman might be intriguing for an upcoming film, it’s not as appealing for the primary comic book narrative. This young and inexperienced Superman was also arrogant, which didn’t resonate with the classic Superman persona. The aim to attract children and new readers unfortunately had the opposite effect.

Despite the fact that many found him disliked, this particular Superman experienced a tragic ending. After losing many of his original powers and acquiring new ones, this Superman met his demise in the New 52 and has since remained deceased. However, during the Convergence, Superman, Lois, and their son were reintroduced; yet, this version has continued to remain dead, lingering as a distant memory.

4) Red Robin, New 52

In the latest addition to the New 52 series, we find ourselves with Red Robin, who is none other than Tim Drake, traditionally known as Batman’s most intelligent Robin. However, unlike many of Batman’s supporting characters in the New 52, Tim’s history was significantly altered. Rather than being Bruce Wayne’s most intelligent Robin, he was rewritten to have always been Red Robin and a skilled hacker-spy. This change didn’t sit right with readers.

He also glanced away, finding the revamped costume lacking, especially the mask, which made him appear more childlike instead of a seasoned spy. Everything just felt out of place.

5) Cassandra Cain, Black Bat

Prior to the New 52 comic book series, Cassandra Cain relinquished the role of Batgirl following brainwashing that made her take lives. During this period, Stephanie Brown took over as Batgirl, while Cassandra found herself without a designated role and was compelled to transform into Black Bat. The name Black Bat for such an exceptional character is unfortunate, and altering her signature mask to a tilted domino mask added insult to injury.

Changing her name might have mostly been symbolic, yet it remains one of the most hurtful actions they took towards her. Interestingly, she used to go by ‘Orphan,’ but now she’s back to being known as Batgirl again.

6) Jon Kent, Aged Up

Initially, when we introduced Jon Kent, he was an engaging character. Being around the same age as Robin (Damian Wayne), and performing similar roles for his own father, made it fascinating. As their joint series, Super Sons, unfolded, it was delightful to be a supporter of these two characters. However, when Bendis arrived, he whisked Jon Kent off to an alternate dimension to mature him, a decision that left many fans frustrated and upset, still resonating today.

As a devoted cinema enthusiast, I must confess that this latest move by DC, shifting Dick Grayson’s dynamic towards Nightwing, seems to be a misstep they’ve taken in quite some time. The potential for Jon Kent and Damian Wayne to mature together, forging an unbreakable bond over the years, was a promising prospect. However, with Damian seemingly growing up mostly on his own within their age group, it feels like a missed opportunity. Fortunately, Jon remains a strong character, but I can’t help but question the wisdom of rapidly aging him. It’s not the direction I had hoped for these iconic characters.

7) Lobo, DCYou

The latest version of Lobo is generally not well-received as one of the least successful reboots. Initially presented as the genuine article, while the original was either a clone or an imposter, a confrontation was suggested to clear things up. However, following 13 solo issues and numerous guest appearances, he has mostly vanished from the scene. He was briefly imprisoned by Brainiac in a bottle, but his release was thwarted by Guy Gardner, only to be halted by Hal Jordan. Thankfully, we’ve all managed to let go of that character.

8) Hal Jordan, Emerald Twilight

Discussing Hal Jordan, there’s the well-known shift known as Parallax. While some fans find this intriguing, particularly the tale of a fallen hero, others strongly disapprove of this development. After his transformation into the villain during a critical event, Hal effectively left his heroic role behind. Following the “Final Night” storyline, Hal would perish and return as the Spectre, eventually earning redemption.

After numerous revisions, Hal’s name was cleared of any wrongdoings. He was absolved from these events and once again hailed a hero, with his character being brought back to its closest resemblance to the original version.

9) Guy Gardner, Warrior

How should I tackle the subject of Guy Gardner and his numerous misadventures? After all, he had misplaced his ring, causing him to lose his identity. Subsequently, he found a ring similar to that of Sinestro, regaining his ability to wield power but needing a new outfit. This was during a period when the rings were not yet tied to the Emotional Spectrum; instead, it was simply a powerful ring that led to the creation of Warrior.

For over a decade, fans found themselves accustomed to Guy’s portrayal. Fortunately, when Geoff Johns assumed control of the Lantern lore, Guy was restored to his Lantern status, bringing relief and joy to Lantern enthusiasts worldwide.

10) Suicide Squad, New Suicide Squad

1. This unofficial version of the Suicide Squad, introduced during the DCYou era, received massive criticism. People were bewildered by the characters’ arrival at Belle Reve and immediately disliked it. The team’s power dynamics were questionable, as it didn’t consist of assassins like Deadshot, and there was confusion about how Talon ended up among them.

2. During the DCYou era, an unconventional Suicide Squad lineup caused a storm of disapproval. Characters appearing at Belle Reve left fans puzzled, and the team’s composition, lacking assassins like Deadshot, was met with skepticism. The inclusion of Talon also raised questions about his presence in the group.

3. The Suicide Squad that emerged during DCYou faced widespread dislike due to a confusing roster change. Fans were unsure how the characters ended up at Belle Reve and disagreed with the team’s power structure, as it didn’t fit the typical assassin mold, such as Deadshot. Additionally, the placement of Talon within the group sparked further debate about his role.

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2025-07-12 19:41