DC’s new Next Level initiative is bringing many of these characters to the forefront. A spin-off of the All-In program that yielded hits such as Absolute Batman. Next Level has so far shined a light on fan favorites such as Zatanna, Lobo and Batwoman. Others, such as Firestorm, will soon join these heroes with a new title of his own.
Also joining Lobo and Firestorm is Deadman, who receives a new ongoing book this summer. A perennial cult favorite since his introduction in 1967’s Strange Adventures #205, the high-flying Deadman will soon soar to new heights in the DC Universe, and along with a new title, the character is getting a handful of awesome new looks.
Deadman was created by writer Arnold Drake and artist Carmine Infantino.
Deadman’s New Solo Book Gives Him Some Sweet New Designs
Did You Ever Imagine Deadman Wearing a Suit and Tie?
DC has released solicitations for books shipping in June, including The Deadman #1, which will be written by W. Maxwell Prince and drawn by Martin Morazzo. DC’s solicitation for the book reads as such:
In the millisecond following his murder, the soul of shifty circus aerialist Boston Brand was commandeered by the goddess Rama Kushna, who deputized the erstwhile performer’s ghost with a sacred spectral assignment: the Custodian of All Souls! Now Brand floats—begrudgingly—through this bluegreen purgatory we call Earth, upholding the Laws of Spiritual Math and protecting humanity from evil—even if they can’t see or hear him. Open up to this new era of DC’s most lively deceased superhero—the Deadman—in a story about life, death, and everything in between…replete with paranormal activity, possessions, and a profusion of other poignant peculiarities.
This will be Deadman’s first solo outing in many years, even though he appeared in books such as Justice League Dark.
In addition to information on the book, DC also revealed variant covers for The Deadman #1. The first cover, by Morrazzo, depicts Deadman wearing a solid red suit, while a foil cover by the same artist shows him sporting another new look. The final covers, by Tula Lotay and Mike Choi, show Deadman in a suit, vest and tie.
Deadman’s New Outffits Switches Up His Vibe, Letting Fans See Him In a Whole New Light
Deadman’s Appearance Has Remained Largely Unchanged Since 1967
DC did not specify if Deadman would have any of these looks in his new title, but they are all undeniably cool. The two outfits Morazzo has created are more heroic in scope, leaving no question that Boston Brand is a hero. They are totally suitable for a superhero like Deadman.
The snappy-looking suit and tie Boston is wearing on these covers give him a completely new vibe.
Yet the outfits created by Lotay and Choi are completely new to Deadman’s world. Since his introduction, Deadman’s appearance has remained largely the same, with only a few minor tweaks by artists here and there. The snappy-looking suit and tie Boston is wearing on these covers give him a completely new vibe.
Deadman Is Way Overdue a Return to the Spotlight
Deadman Has Appeared in Animated Shows Such as Justice League Unlimited
For Deadman, this new series is long overdue, and not just because it has been many years since he last had one. DC has many unique characters in their stable, but Deadman may rank as one of the neatest. The concept alone is gold, and numerous creators, including the legendary Neal Adams, have done great things with Deadman.
Furthermore, Deadman has achieved some degree of recognition outside the comics’ industry. He appeared, in animated form, in cartoons such as Justice League Unlimited and Batman: The Brave and the Bold, as well as the Justice League Dark animated movie. Each of these appearances made great use of Deadman, introducing him to new legions of fans.
Deadman’s New Designs Show DC’s Confience in the Character
The Deadman Is the Perfect Jumping On Point for Fans Curious About Boston Brand
Despite Deadman’s cool gimmick and appearance, he has never been able to sustain his own book, at least for long periods of time. W. Maxwell Prince and Martin Morazzo are looking to change that, and they are off to a great start by giving Boston Brand some snazzy new outfits that take him to a new level.
DC Unveils Epic Redesign, Officially Crowning a Classic Hero Its Sorcerer Supreme
DC Next Level is debuting a brand-new costume for a beloved character, and it appropriately levels them up for a stunning new phase and role.
The covers to The Deadman #1 show Boston’s new looks off in a grand fashion. The new outfits, especially the one with the suit and tie, reflect DC’s confidence in Deadman, as well as Prince and Morazzo. Deadman’s horror-tinged adventures are also trippy and psychedelic, and the covers honor that tradition as well.
The Deadman #1 is on sale June 3 from DC Comics.