DC Comics Cancels Controversial Joker Variant Cover

This June sees DC Comics releasing Joker-themed variant covers.

One cover in particular has drawn some controversy with the variant to Batgirl #41.

It seems it’s so controversial that DC Comics is now cancelling the cover, per the request of the artist Rafael Albuquerque.

“My intention was never to hurt or upset anyone through my art,” Albuquerque said in a statement, which can be read below. “For that reason, I have recommended to DC that the variant cover be pulled.”

Apparently some people online were upset the variant cover was so “dark” while the current Batgirl seems to be more light-hearted.

Here is Albuquerque’s statement:

My Batgirl variant cover artwork was designed to pay homage to a comic that I really admire, and I know is a favorite of many readers. ‘The Killing Joke’ is part of Batgirl’s canon and artistically, I couldn’t avoid portraying the traumatic relationship between Barbara Gordon and the Joker.

For me, it was just a creepy cover that brought up something from the character’s past that I was able to interpret artistically. But it has become clear, that for others, it touched a very important nerve. I respect these opinions and, despite whether the discussion is right or wrong, no opinion should be discredited.

My intention was never to hurt or upset anyone through my art. For that reason, I have recommended to DC that the variant cover be pulled. I’m incredibly pleased that DC Comics is listening to my concerns and will not be publishing the cover art in June as previously announced.

With all due respect,

Rafa 

And DC’s:

We publish comic books about the greatest heroes in the world, and the most evil villains imaginable. The Joker variant covers for June are in recognition of the 75th anniversary of the Joker.

Regardless if fans like Rafael Albuquerque’s homage to Alan Moore’s THE KILLING JOKE graphic novel from 25 years ago, or find it inconsistent with the current tonality of the Batgirl books – threats of violence and harassment are wrong and have no place in comics or society.

We stand by our creative talent, and per Rafael’s request, DC Comics will not publish the Batgirl variant. – DC Entertainment

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