Batman #357 Introduced a Key DC Hero But That’s Not The Best Part

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We’re excited to announce a new way to collect comics: a vending machine! (You can see it here.) It’s a fun way to build your collection and find new titles. All the comics come from a local shop, and today we want to showcase a special one we’ve included: Batman #357 – it’s the very first appearance of the character Jason Todd!

DC Comics has always been known for its memorable characters – from Superman and Wonder Woman to Batman and Green Lantern, and many others. For decades, these heroes have come to life in comic books, sparking the imaginations of readers and introducing a wide range of characters to root for or despise. That’s why the first appearance of any character is a special moment, particularly within the Batman universe. And among all the Batman comics, certain first appearances stand out as truly important, like the issue Batman #357.

First published in 1984, Batman #357 is now a highly prized comic book for both fans and collectors. Its significance goes beyond just being a classic vintage issue; it’s a pivotal moment in Batman lore. Written by Gerry Conway and illustrated by Don Newton, this issue introduces Jason Todd, a character who would become one of the most debated figures in the Batman universe. It also features a second appearance by Killer Croc, a formidable villain who, despite his potential, remains somewhat underused. This issue was a turning point for the series and its impact is still felt today.

 The Road to the Most Infamous Robin Begins in Batman #357

Jason Todd became a hugely important figure in Batman’s history. He was the second person to be Robin, and he’s infamous for his death in the 1988 storyline “A Death in the Family.” DC Comics actually let readers vote on whether Jason should live or die, and the result was his death at the hands of the Joker – a loss that has deeply affected Batman ever since, even after Jason returned as the Red Hood in 2005. However, Jason’s story didn’t start with tragedy. It began in Batman #357, where Batman was investigating a new crime boss called The Squid. At the same time, the then-current Robin, Dick Grayson, visited a circus and met young Jason Todd and his family, who were performing as acrobats.

To be honest, not much happens in Batman #357. Dick Grayson doesn’t have any direct scenes with young Jason Todd, though we briefly see Jason performing with his family. Killer Croc also isn’t shown much – he’s mostly a shadowy, green figure giving orders. The most exciting part is when The Squid gains the advantage over Batman, and the issue ends with Batman about to be fed to a giant squid named Gertrude! On its own, it’s a fun, classic Batman comic from the 1980s. However, looking back, this issue is important because it subtly lays the groundwork for Jason Todd becoming the new Robin a few issues later.

The story revisits Dick Grayson’s past, bringing him back to the circus and introducing a young man who reminds him of his former self. We learn Dick has been balancing his work with Batman and his commitments to the Teen Titans, explaining why he hasn’t visited the circus in some time. This issue sets up future events, particularly the tragic backstory of Jason Todd. Killer Croc’s appearance is key, as he’s responsible for the death of Jason’s parents – an event that ultimately leads Jason to become a sidekick. While Croc’s full debut came later in Detective Comics #524 (1983), this moment establishes his crucial role in shaping Jason’s life.

Batman #357 Is a Fascinating Reminder of How Connected Stories Can Be

For me, Batman #357 stands out as a particularly important modern issue, not because of a grand storyline, but because of its subtlety. While the story seems small at the time – Jason and Killer Croc almost feel like brief appearances within a larger look at Gotham’s crime – both characters unexpectedly become very important later on. That’s what makes this issue so memorable. By the time I first read it, the “A Death in the Family” storyline had already happened, and Jason Todd’s origin had already been rewritten due to Crisis on Infinite Earths.

I don’t quite remember how I first got the comic book – perhaps it belonged to an older sibling of a friend, or maybe someone on the school bus had it. What I do remember is hearing that Jason Todd hadn’t always been the brooding orphan he seemed to be, and that’s what made me want to read it. It was the moment I realized how compelling it is to see a character develop and change. I thought about that moment again nearly twenty years later when Jason returned, and his complete story solidified him as one of my favorite characters.

While not as famous as the first appearance of Jason Todd as Robin or Killer Croc, Batman #357 is a crucial issue that heavily influences many later Batman storylines. It’s a must-read for dedicated fans and a valuable addition to any collection.

I’m so excited about the new items in the Vending Machine! You won’t believe this, but you could actually win a near-mint 9.8 graded copy of Batman #357! It’s a cool piece of history – it originally came from Rick’s Comic City in Nashville, Tennessee, a local shop that’s been around since 2000. They really live up to their slogan, ‘We have Issues!’ – they have an amazing selection of both new and older comics, and sometimes they even get fantastic vintage finds like this Batman issue. I’m definitely going to try my luck with the Vending Machine – maybe I’ll be the lucky one to win this gorgeous comic!

We sincerely hope you’ll give the Vending Machine a spin – and wish you luck in your pulls.

– Pull the egmr.ru Vending Machine – Right Here –

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2026-05-16 18:43