5 DC Comics Heroes Who Need to Make a Major Return

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One of the things I enjoy most about DC Comics is their willingness to introduce new heroes over the past few years. I still love the classic characters like Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman, but it’s great to see DC try out fresh concepts, whether by reimagining existing heroes or creating entirely new ones. DC seemed really committed to these new characters just a short time ago, but lately, they’ve been appearing less and less, or not at all.

It’s definitely challenging to introduce new characters in genres that people love for their established traditions. However, a few recent heroes have made a strong first impression, like Circuit Breaker, who uses the Still Force, and Degenerate, DC’s version of the Hulk whose powers come from being intentionally unpleasant. While 2025 for DC focused on revisiting classic ideas, I’m hoping to see these five overlooked new characters get another chance in the coming year.

5. Degenerate

I really enjoyed Unstoppable Doom Patrol, and I was intrigued by the introduction of Maurice, who goes by Degenerate. His powers kicked in after the Lazarus Planet event, making him seriously strong and tough, but there’s a catch – he needs to be angry and unpleasant to use them. He was a big part of that miniseries, but we haven’t seen him pop up anywhere else since, which is a shame, especially since Beast Girl, another new member of the Doom Patrol, has been showing up in Titans. I’m hoping DC will explore what else they can do with Degenerate outside of the Doom Patrol team, but honestly, I’d just be happy to see him make another appearance, anywhere!

4. Circuit Breaker

Following the events of Lazarus Planet, Jules Jourdain gained superpowers, becoming connected to the Still Force. Unlike the Flash, who is all about speed, Circuit Breaker can absorb and redistribute energy – even using it to power himself. While he’s made a few appearances in The Flash and continues to show up in DC’s Pride annuals, I think there’s potential for Circuit Breaker to play a larger role, particularly with the Justice League’s growing roster.

3. Bolt

It’s surprising how quickly Bolt faded into the background after first appearing. He gained his powers – called Living Lightning – while playing a significant role in the Black Adam miniseries, becoming the hero Bolt. Although connected to Black Adam, Bolt is a good-hearted character who works with the Shazam Family. However, he’s barely been seen since, appearing only in a couple of DC Power specials. I think there’s a lot of potential in a heroic descendant of Black Adam, and I hope DC brings him back.

2. Xanthe Zhou

I’m a huge fan of Spirit World, and Xanthe Zhou, who goes by the Envoy, is just fantastic. She’s incredibly powerful, able to move between the world we know and the realm of the dead. I’ve seen her show up in a few other places, like Birds of Prey and Justice League Unlimited, which is great, but honestly, she deserves more than just cameos. She’s such a compelling character that she needs to be part of a bigger team – seriously, Justice League Dark would be perfect for her!

1. Sideways

Sideways was a truly special new hero. He stood out with his original abilities and a lot of potential, but sadly, his comic series was cut short before it could really hit its stride. While he may have initially been inspired by Spider-Man during DC’s New Age of Heroes, Sideways quickly became much more than just a copy. He’s an engaging and energetic character who deserves a proper storyline, not just brief appearances in other comics forever.

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2026-01-06 23:19