DC Unveils Absolute Two-Face and Penguin Designs

DC Comics has unveiled the designs for two iconic villains in its Absolute Batman series, signaling the transformation of Bruce Wayne's childhood friends into adversaries. Absolute Batman #21, written by Scott Snyder and illustrated by Nick Dragotta, will introduce Absolute Two-Face and Absolute Penguin on June 10, 2026.

In the Absolute Universe, a reimagined continuity launched about a year and a half ago, Batman shares deep bonds with several figures from his past. Harvey Dent, Oswald Cobblepot, Waylon Jones, Selina Kyle, and Edward Nygma grew up alongside Bruce Wayne, aware of his dual life as a vigilante. This setup diverged from traditional lore, where characters like Two-Face and Penguin typically oppose Batman from the outset. However, tensions escalated during a brutal confrontation with Bane, who targeted Wayne's allies to dismantle the hero psychologically.

Bane's assault left lasting scars on Dent and Cobblepot. Dent endured severe burns to the left side of his face and body after being pinned in ignited gasoline, with his skull fractured down the center. Cobblepot suffered injuries that left him physically diminished. Both men, hospitalized and grappling with trauma,...