Joker and Batman are arguably the most legendary villain-hero pairing in pop culture. Yet, while it’s easy to assume the Dark Knight reigns supreme among fans, the Clown Prince of Crime has just flipped the script, scoring a real-world victory that proves the Joker holds the popularity vote among fans.
Absolute Universe architect and Absolute Batman writer Scott Snyder recently sat down with Casually Comics to discuss his ongoing projects, including DC’s current crisis event, the Absolute titles, and more.
During the interview, he revealed that the first printing of Absolute Batman #15, set for release on December 10, 2025, has already outsold the first printing of Absolute Batman #1 (2024), a rare feat in the comic world. The statistic becomes less surprising when you consider that this issue features the debut of Joker’s new monstrous form.
Why Absolute Batman #15 Just Outsold Issue #1 (Hint: The Joker)
Cover C Ben Oliver Variant for Absolute Batman #15 (2025)
While the Joker of the Absolute Universe first appeared in Absolute Batman #1 and returned in issues #6 and #11, anticipation for issue #15 has skyrocketed. Both the cover art and synopsis tease the transformation of the previously human-presenting Joker into a demonic, reptilian form, making this installment one of the most eagerly awaited in the series.
Alfred reveals to Bruce the story of the man he’s been chasing for years. Enter: Joker! Scott Snyder and Jock reunite for an epic tale in the Absolute Universe!
Analyzing why Absolute Batman #15 has already outsold the first printing of Absolute Batman #1, the answer is clear: the debut of Joker’s monstrous form is driving demand. Add in the numerous variant covers featuring the Joker, and it’s easy to see why collectors and fans alike are snapping up issues, with the art alone acting as a major buying incentive.
The key takeaway from Absolute Batman #15 outselling its predecessor is simple: the Joker sells. The fact that the debut of his true, monstrous form is generating more attention than Batman’s own debut in the Absolute Universe underscores the fanbase’s enduring love for the Clown Prince of Crime, proving that Joker has truly upstaged the Dark Knight in the arena of popularity.
What We Know About the Absolute Joker (So Far)
Cover D Brian Bolland Variant for Absolute Batman #15 (2025)
Despite multiple appearances in Absolute Batman and starring in Absolute Evil #1 (2025), much about the Joker of the Absolute Universe remains a mystery. Fans do know that in this reality, the Joker is an evil billionaire rather than a clown, and that his nickname is one rooted in irony given that he never laughs, making his title all the more chilling.
Absolute Batman #6 also revealed that the Joker has been undergoing monstrous blood transfusions using the blood of infants. This is likely tied to the origin of his monstrous form. While many questions remain about Joker and his terrifying demonic transformation, fans can expect some much-anticipated answers when Absolute Batman #15 finally arrives, promising to shed light on the Clown Prince of Crime’s darkest secrets.
Absolute Batman #15 is available December 10, 2025, from DC Comics!
- NAME
-
Arthur Fleck
- Alias
-
Red Hood, Clown Prince of Crime, Ace of Knaves
- Created By
-
Bill Finger, Bob Kane, Jerry Robinson
- POWERS
-
Criminal Mastermind, Expert Chemist, Weaponized Props, Psychological Manipulation, Combat Skills, Unpredictability, High Pain Tolerance, Charisma, Escape Artist
- RELATIONSHIPS
-
Batman (archenemy), Harley Quinn (former psychiatrist, on-and-off girlfriend), Penguin (frequent collaborator), Two-Face (frequent collaborator)
- HISTORY
-
The Joker’s history has been depicted with various origin stories, the most common being his transformation into the Joker after falling into a vat of chemical waste that bleaches his skin white, turns his hair green, and lips bright red. This disfigurement drives him insane, leading him to become Batman’s greatest nemesis.
The Joker is a psychopathic criminal mastermind with a warped sense of humor. Initially introduced as a remorseless serial killer, the character evolved over time, often oscillating between a prankster and a homicidal maniac. His relationship with Batman is one of the most complex in comic book history, defined by their mutual obsession. Over the decades, the Joker has become an enduring icon of chaos and madness, embodying the antithesis of Batman’s order and justice.