Batman Just Got Called Out by a Surprising Bat Family Member (And It’s About Time)

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Currently, DC Comics is concentrating heavily on Superman and the Justice League, however, there’s an exciting new development for Batman – the continuation of the classic tale called “Hush 2.” This sequel to the legendary “Hush” storyline by Jeph Loeb and Jim Lee revolves around a villain seeking retribution not just against Batman and his associates, but also notable adversaries like the Riddler and the Joker. To put it simply, “Hush 2” might not be as explosive in the comic world as its precursor was, but it’s still a thrilling read, with Jim Lee’s stunning artwork enhancing an entertaining Batman narrative.

In issue #161 of Batman’s comic series, the chapter stands out as one of the best yet, featuring an unexpected alliance between Batman, Robin, and Bane against Hush’s new metahuman accomplices. Meanwhile, Batgirl (Barbara Gordon) pays a visit to her hospitalized father, who was injured in another attack by one of Batman’s villains – a common plot device in Batman stories, with “Batman: The Killing Joke” being just one instance where the Joker targeted the Gordons. During this visit, Batman is ambushed and Batgirl comes to his rescue. However, she delivers a stern reprimand (both verbally and physically) to Batman regarding his inaction on protecting her father, a scolding that long overdue.

Being an Ally to Batman Has Almost Destroyed the Gordons

In the world of Batman, The Joker and Commissioner Jim Gordon are two pivotal figures who significantly influence the Caped Crusader’s life. While many consider Alfred Pennyworth as part of Batman’s family, he is distinct from his allies, such as Dick Grayson. Instead, Gordon has been a crucial ally in Batman’s fight against crime in Gotham, serving as a liaison between the Dark Knight and the police force. This alliance has made Gordon a frequent target, particularly by The Joker.

Throughout the years, The Joker has launched numerous attacks on Jim and his daughter, Barbara Gordon (also known as Oracle), but several stand out. One of these notable encounters is depicted in “Batman: The Killing Joke,” a story renowned among Batman enthusiasts. In this tale, The Joker aimed to shatter Jim Gordon’s spirit by shooting Barbara, kidnapping him, and subjecting him to torture. Batman ultimately saved Gordon, yet contemplated killing the Joker; however, it was Gordon who persuaded him against it.

During the epic storyline “No Man’s Land,” The Joker claimed the life of Sarah Essen, Gordon’s then-wife. In the original “Hush” story arc, Batman contemplated ending the Joker’s life, only to be dissuaded once more by Gordon himself. Since then, Batman has repeatedly held back from killing the Joker, upholding the moral code that Jim Gordon embodies.

However, a recent issue of “Batman” (#161) hints at a member of the Gordon family harboring different feelings towards The Joker and his connection to the living world.

Barbara Gordon was among those adversely affected by the Joker’s vendetta against her family. Unbeknownst to her father, Barbara had previously confronted the Joker as Batgirl, making her a frequent target. In “The Killing Joke”, the Joker left Barbara paralyzed, altering her life significantly and claiming her step-mother’s life. Now, it appears that Jim Gordon is once more in danger due to one of Batman’s adversaries. While Jim Gordon may prefer to see the Joker brought to justice in a court of law, his daughter, who was formerly Batgirl, has become enraged at the Joker for repeatedly causing harm to her family and friends with seemingly little consequence. The moral compasses of her father and Batman have lost their luster in her eyes, prompting her to confront Batman about her feelings. In a turn of events, Hush, one of Batman’s enemies, targeted Batman—who happened to be standing near a bomb planted by Hush—and Batgirl intervened, saving Batman. However, the two subsequently clashed because Batgirl has grown tired of the Joker’s games and wants her father better protected. She believes that more drastic measures are needed to address the current situation than simply allowing Hush to manipulate everyone. In her opinion, much of the suffering endured by the Gordons can be traced back to Batman’s actions.

Batgirl Is Right About Batman

In her frustration, Batgirl finds herself growing weary of the turmoil affecting her family due to Batman’s actions. She decides it’s time to express her feelings towards him. The Joker and Hush have been a constant threat to both her father and life, and she feels they’ve come dangerously close to taking his life once more. She urges Batman to step up, to devise a strategy to halt these dangerous individuals, but he continues to react rather than initiate action. Barbara is furious, and rightly so.

In a scenario that might be too extreme for some, it’s questionable whether Batman should refrain from taking lives, such as those of the Joker or Hush. However, his failure to protect individuals like Commissioner Gordon is a significant oversight. Batman seems unprepared when it comes to safeguarding Batgirl, and he lacks a strategy to ensure her father’s safety. This anger is justified, and it’s not just Batgirl feeling this way. As the issue concludes, we see that she has allies who share her dissatisfaction with Batman’s decisions. Could this be a pivotal moment? We’ll have to wait and see.

Batman #161 is on sale now.

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2025-07-25 21:12