Absolute Wonder Woman 2026 Annual #1 is DC’s Compassionate Hero at Her Best (Review)

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If you’ve enjoyed Absolute Wonder Woman, you’ll definitely love this new standalone story. The ‘Absolute’ series has quickly become one of DC Comics’ best, and Kelly Thompson and Hayden Sherman’s Absolute Wonder Woman has been particularly popular with both critics and readers. This version of Wonder Woman was raised in Hell by the witch Circe, but even without her Amazon upbringing, she’s become a beacon of hope in a troubled world.

The comic series Absolute Wonder Woman is getting a special, extra-long issue. Following the events of a recent storyline where Wonder Woman transformed into a Medusa-like figure, Absolute Wonder Woman 2026 Annual #1 will see writer Kelly Thompson and artist Mattia De Iulis team up again, with lettering by Becca Carey. This new issue will follow Wonder Woman as she attempts to correct a past injustice in a story exploring themes of mythology, compassion, and understanding.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

PROS CONS
Fantastic, consistent characterization Lower stakes than usual Absolute stories
Top-notch art Requires a bit of homework

Absolute Wonder Woman 2026 Annual #1 is an Incredibly Captivating Modern-Day Myth

Since becoming a gorgon herself, Wonder Woman has been deeply troubled by Medusa’s fate. She’s pleaded with the goddess Athena, offering prayers and sacrifices, hoping for a chance to speak with her. Finally, Athena agrees to listen as Diana explains her desire to help Medusa and reverse her transformation. Wonder Woman proposes a deal: she’ll give up all of her powers if Athena allows her to look into Medusa’s eyes without being turned to stone. With this ability secured, Diana embarks on a difficult journey to find Medusa. The trip is full of dangers, but the greatest threat awaits when Wonder Woman finally confronts Medusa and her sisters.

Wonder Woman finally talks to Medusa and the two find common ground. Diana shares how briefly becoming a gorgon made her understand the loneliness of being unable to meet anyone’s gaze. She then offers Medusa her Lasso of Truth, hoping it can reverse Medusa’s transformation. Medusa is unsure of what’s real anymore, but she trusts Diana and her commitment to justice. Using the lasso, Wonder Woman successfully changes Medusa back to her original form, allowing her to reunite with her sisters after thousands of years.

Absolute Wonder Woman 2026 Annual #1 Shows Off Everything Great about Diana

Like last year’s Absolute Batman annual showcased what makes that series special, this annual from Thompson and De Iluis offers a fantastic look into this version of Wonder Woman. It goes beyond simply portraying her as kind – it reveals a deep empathy for all life. Even as a child, she questioned traditional stories about gods and monsters. And, as she explains throughout the issue, her own painful time as a gorgon drove her to want to end Medusa’s suffering.

This story focuses on what makes Wonder Woman truly heroic, moving beyond her iconic tools and abilities. Writer Thompson realizes her greatest strength isn’t her lasso or flight – it’s her ability to recognize value in all things. While this issue could have explored any part of Diana’s life, Thompson specifically chose to revisit her time as a gorgon, knowing this version of Wonder Woman wouldn’t abandon anyone in pain. Every choice Diana makes, even sacrificing her powers, feels genuine because she’s driven by a deep compassion and willingness to help others at any cost.

I definitely need to mention the fantastic work of artist Patrícia de Iluis. If you enjoyed the two-part story, “The Lady or the Tiger,” in Absolute Wonder Woman, you’ll really appreciate this one. De Iluis excels at showing the impressive scope of Wonder Woman’s adventures. From conversations with Athena to facing Medusa and her sisters, you truly feel immersed in a huge, mythical world. Her art enhances the storytelling and perfectly captures the epic, legendary atmosphere this annual is aiming for. I’m a big fan of Sherman’s work on the regular series, but I’d love to see more of De Iluis’ art in future issues.

I don’t usually follow annual comics, but this story immediately grabbed me. It’s a fantastic addition to the Absolute Wonder Woman series, and truly showcases how incredible the character is. In a time when things often feel bleak, it’s refreshing to read about a hero who acts with genuine kindness and integrity, focusing on doing what’s right rather than just being a savior. If you’re a fan of Absolute Wonder Woman, you absolutely shouldn’t miss this annual.

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2026-02-11 17:41