Warning: includes a preview for Batman '89 #4!

The secret identity of Batman '89's Robin was just unveiled by series artist Joe Quinones. Robin was originally slated to appear alongside Michael Keaton's Batman in the Tim Burton's films. However, due to an overstuffed cast of characters, Robin was ultimately side-lined, despite the role having actually been casted. Actor Marlon Wayans was Tim Burton's choice to play the Boy Wonder, but he never got a chance to portray the character. However, the time has finally come as Wayans' Robin just made his comic book debut in issue one!

There have been many iterations of Robin over the years. Objectively, the most famous Robin is Dick Grayson, the original Boy Wonder. Not only has the original Robin been heavily featured in the comics, but he has also appeared in numerous films and TV shows. Batman's list of Robin incarnations doesn't end with just one as a slew of other people have also taken on the mantle. Namely, Jason Todd, Tim Drake and Damian Wayne are three of the biggest names to take on the role in comics. It's clear that DC is always pleased to welcome new versions of Robin into their universe given that Batman '89's Robin is also someone completely new.

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Batman '89 artist Joe Quinones confirmed on Twitter that Wayans' Robin is named Drake Winston. This news comes along with Quinones' stunning cover art for Batman '89 #4 and its solicitation. Richard Drake was Robin's original name in early production on the series, but it was ultimately changed by writer Sam Hamm. Obviously, Drake is a familiar name for fans of Robin. However, in this case, Drake is his first name and Tim Drake has no relation. It's clear that Wayans' Robin is someone completely new, which is very exciting. Check out the cover art and solicitation below:

  • BATMAN '89 #4
  • Written by SAM HAMM
  • Art by JOE QUINONES
  • Cover by JOE QUINONES
  • Variant cover by BABS TARR
  • $3.99 US | 32 PGS | 4 of 6 | $4.99 US Variant (Card stock)
  • ON SALE 11/9/21
  • Someone's hot on Bruce Wayne's heels, out to prove his connection to Batman once and for all! Meanwhile, Harvey Dent plans his next steps for Gotham with just the simple flip of a coin. What does he have in store for Gotham, and can Batman twist probability in his favor?

Marlon Wayans' Robin made his explosive debut in issue one where he absolutely humiliated Batman by launching him off of a balcony. This leaves the Dark Knight in a tricky situation, dangling like a bat as Gotham's police close in on him. It seems that the not-so dynamic duo will reunite very soon and establish some kind of a working relationship. Batman and Robin's typical dynamic doesn't seem to be an option here, it looks like they will be more partners than a hero and his sidekick. Robin is a local resident of Burnside who has become a hero of the area. Clearly, both heroes will have problems with how each other operate given their distinct difference in methods, shown by their brief interaction in issue one. For the better of Gotham as a whole, the two will have to overcome their grievances with each other.

Since Batman '89's Robin was never given an official name, fans assumed that he was an alternate version of Dick Grayson. However, it seems that Hamm and Quinones are truly distinguishing the character as a brand-new take on Robin. Find out who Robin truly is when Batman '89 #4 releases on November 9 in comic book stores and on digital platforms.

Next: New Justice League Series Announced by DC Comics

Source: Joe Quinones