5 Things You Need to Know About DC’s Scariest Joker Yet

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After more than a year of anticipation, DC Comics has finally revealed the full story behind the Joker in the Absolute Universe. Fans have been intrigued by this version of the Joker ever since his quick appearance at the end of Absolute Batman #1, and his presence throughout the first two story arcs—and a significant role in Absolute Evil last October—only increased the mystery. The reveal of his terrifying true form on the cover of Absolute Batman #15 made fans even more eager to learn his origins.

This version of Joker, found in the Absolute Universe, isn’t the street-level criminal most fans know. He’s reimagined as one of the world’s wealthiest individuals – so rich, in fact, that very few know his true identity. His wealth stems from his company, J.K. Holdings, which he uses to fund a network of private institutions called ‘Arks’ worldwide, with Ark M located in Gotham City. Until recently, details about this new Joker were scarce, but Absolute Batman #15 has revealed five previously unknown facts about this frightening take on the character.

5. The Joker’s ‘Real Name’

In Absolute Batman #15, Alfred Pennyworth does most of the storytelling, starting with a surprising reveal: the Joker’s real name is Jack Grimm V. Jack is named after his great-grandfather, who began as a street performer and eventually found success in the theater, establishing the family’s reputation. The Grimms have been involved in entertainment for generations, and Jack has continued this tradition, building wealth through investments in online gaming and computer graphics. However, Alfred shares that this is only one account of the Grimm family’s past.

4. Joker Made His Money Playing Both Sides

Alfred uncovers a hidden truth about the Grimms: they’ve always been scammers, making money by deceiving people with clever, and often dishonest, schemes. They consistently succeed by exploiting every situation, whether it’s for amusement or during times of conflict, essentially playing all sides. The Grimms don’t just benefit from the world’s problems – they actively contribute to them, then profit from fixing them. As Alfred puts it, they’re like a clown who seems foolish but is actually outsmarting everyone else.

3. Joker Has Islands Where He Hunts and Kills People

Alfred tells the story of the Grimm family, and we see Jack Grimm V relaxing on one of his private islands. Alfred explains that while the islands aren’t impressive, Grimm owns hundreds worldwide, not for traditional hunting, but to track down and kill people. These aren’t random targets, though – they’re individuals who’ve investigated the Joker’s past and discovered information Grimm wants to keep hidden. Harvey Harris was one of these people, an associate researching disappearances linked to the Grimms, who ultimately became Grimm’s next victim.

2. Joker is an Ageless Monster

Look, the Joker finally takes down Harvey, and it’s brutal – a truly demonic display. But what’s fascinating isn’t just the monster, it’s the idea that there isn’t a family of Jokers, as Alfred suspects. He believes this Joker has been pulling the strings for over a century, a master manipulator making a fortune from chaos. And honestly? He’s right. Harvey realizes he’s looking at the same Joker, Jack, that Harris investigated over thirty years ago – a man who hasn’t aged a day. It’s a chilling reveal that Alfred unwittingly confirms, and it completely reframes everything.

1. Joker Literally Has Bruce Wayne’s Life

We always suspected Jack Grimm V was similar to Bruce Wayne – a wealthy vigilante. This became obvious when he returned home to his estate in Gotham, which was managed by a loyal butler, much like Alfred Pennyworth. Just like Bruce Wayne, his manor concealed a secret cave. However, the details of that cave and its connection to the Absolute Joker will have to be revealed another time.

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2025-12-11 00:43