New Bat-Man Animated Series Gives Classic Villain a Daughter (And She’s Perfect)

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The new animated series that premiered on Amazon Prime Video earlier this month offers a unique take on the Dark Knight. Though aimed at a younger audience than Amazon’s other Batman show, Bat-Fam clearly demonstrates a deep appreciation for the DC Universe. The series features a Bruce Wayne who’s successfully reduced crime in Gotham, but a familiar villain has returned, bringing new chaos – and isn’t acting alone.

Be warned: this discussion contains spoilers for the first season of Bat-Fam. In the third episode, “90 is the New 80,” the Mad Hatter returns and is causing trouble for Batman and his family. Surprisingly, he’s trying to turn his own daughter into a villain, bringing her along on a heist. Known only as “The Sad Hatter,” she doesn’t seem happy about following in her father’s footsteps, leading to conflict between them. They aren’t working alone, however.

The Sad Hatter’s Criminal Career

The Sad Hatter, just like her father, has the ability to control people’s minds simply by them looking at her hat. Fortunately, Bruce and his family were able to save the day when Sad decided she’d rather pursue a career as a graphic designer than follow in her father’s villainous footsteps. Though the Hatters presented a tough challenge for Batman and Little Batman, this episode also introduced a brand new villain who appears to be unique to the series.

A new, enigmatic character called “Bright” suddenly appeared, capable of firing energy blasts at DC’s heroes and seemingly driven by a hidden agenda. While characters named “Bright” have appeared in the comics before, this new figure in Gotham City seems distinct. This version of Gotham, filled with both familiar and new villains, feels different from any previous animated depiction of the city.

The Mad Hatter isn’t the only Batman villain who’s been reimagined in the Bat-Fam series compared to the comics. Currently, Ra’s Al Ghul exists as a ghost within Wayne Manor, and Man-Bat is also there, though he’s less beastly than his comic book counterpart. Even Volcana, not usually known as a core Batman villain, is living with Bruce Wayne, but she’s been significantly altered by the film that started this universe, Merry Little Bat-Man. While Bat-Fam hasn’t been renewed for a second season yet, the future still looks promising for the Dark Knight.

What are your thoughts on this funny update to Gotham City? Share your opinion in the comments and join the discussion on the ComicBook Forum!

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2025-11-12 19:43