Batman fans are getting a full year of The Dark Knight Returns celebrations in 2026, as DC marks the 40th anniversary of Frank Miller and Klaus Janson’s landmark series (with colorist Lynn Varley).
DC’s plan includes new print editions, tribute variant covers, creator events, merch drops, and a deluxe hardcover timed to Batman Day.
DC marks 40 years of The Dark Knight Returns
DC says The Dark Knight Returns remains a long-running bestseller and a defining Batman story, credited with shaping modern takes on Bruce Wayne and Gotham.
The four-issue series was first released in March 1986 and centers on an older Bruce returning to the cowl.
Anniversary kickoff at ComicsPro with Miller and Janson
The celebration starts in February at ComicsPro in Glendale, California.
Frank Miller and Klaus Janson will appear together for a panel on the legacy and impact of The Dark Knight Returns. DC says ComicsPro members can attend in person or stream online. The panel is scheduled for Friday at 4:30pm.
Monthly facsimile editions reprint the original 1986 issues
Beginning in February, DC will publish monthly Facsimile Editions of The Dark Knight Returns #1–4.
These reprints aim to match the original single issues, including original covers, ads, and back-matter, for readers who want the 1986 format.
40th Anniversary variant covers arrive later this summer
Later this summer, DC will roll out The Dark Knight Returns 40th Anniversary variant covers.
DC says the covers will feature artists from across the industry paying tribute to Frank Miller’s visuals and the series’ influence on Batman.
DC Compact Comics Edition hits April 7, 2026
DC will also publish Batman: The Dark Knight Returns: DC Compact Comics Edition on April 7, 2026.
DC describes the Compact Comics line as a smaller, portable format for major DC stories, sold wherever books are sold.
DC Shop launches Artist Collection with The Dark Knight Returns
DC Shop will launch an “Artist Collection” program starting with The Dark Knight Returns. DC says the drop will include items like a commemorative jacket, a limited hand-numbered art print with Sideshow Collectibles, graphic tees, a hoodie, and a duffel bag.
DC also notes fans can sign up on DC Shop for notifications about the 40th Anniversary collection.
Batman Day 2026 ends the anniversary year with a deluxe hardcover
DC says the celebration will culminate on Batman Day 2026 with Batman: The Dark Knight Returns Deluxe Edition hardcover.
DC describes it as a newly remastered premium collection meant to serve as a definitive edition of the story.
Why The Dark Knight Returns still matters
DC points to the series’ take on an older Bruce Wayne, its depiction of Gotham, and its influence across comics and wider pop culture.
The story also introduced Carrie Kelley as Robin and set Batman against major enemies in a near-future setting.
More announcements planned for 2026
DC says more news and programming will be announced during 2026 as the company continues spotlighting The Dark Knight Returns and its impact on Batman storytelling.
