In the mid-80s, Dick Grayson let go of his Robin persona and adopted the Nightwing identity. It would take nearly a decade before he received his first solo series, the eponymous Nightwing #1, cementing the character's popularity and place among DC's most valuable and beloved heroes.
Dick has experienced many ups and downs throughout his solo career, perfectly captured in many unforgettable comic book panels. Some of these illustrations are among the most iconic in all of DC, and they live rent-free in fans' heads, thanks to the striking technique and the meaningful place they have in Dick's history.
World's Greatest Acrobat
Every fan knows Dick Grayson is the best acrobat in the DC Universe. Dick spent his childhood among Haly's Circus' Troupe, forming an act with his parents known as 'The Flying Graysons.' It was among this lot that Dick learned many of the core values he'd keep into adulthood, to the point where these showmen and women rank among Nightwing's best mentors in the comics.
Acrobatics is a crucial part of Nightwing's heroic identity, and this panel from Nightwing #87 perfectly showcases it. The entire issue is one continuous take, conveying the sense of dynamism that's so integral to Nightwing's character. He is a hero that's always on the move, jumping and swinging and leaping from tall buildings, enjoying the thrill that would mostly terrify others. Artist Bruno Redondo does a brilliant job capturing Nightwing's fast-paced style, unique among any of DC's heroes.
Just A Man And His Dog
Nightwing is DC's most wholesome superhero without a doubt. Despite the many traumas in his life, Dick remains optimistic as ever, a bright light among Gotham and Blüdhaven's seemingly eternal darkness. Through and through, Dick's shown that he'll keep his faith, no matter how bleak things get.
As such, it makes perfect sense that such a wholesome character would receive a canine companion. Haley, also known as Bitewing, is a three-legged pitbull puppy that Dick rescued after witnessing some teenagers torturing her for fun. The pup soon became Dick's companion, and he even takes her on patrols (as evidenced by this unbelievably sweet panel from Nightwing #78). Dick launches into battle with Haley by his side, two partners ready to take on the adventure of a lifetime. Tom King's run is fleshing out Dick's gentle side, and there's no better way to do so than with a puppy.
Tinker Grayson Soldier Spy
Grayson is DC's take on the James Bond franchise. The 2014-2016 serial saw Dick abandoning his Nightwing persona to become an Agent 37 for the Spyral organization. The series received mostly positive reviews, with praise going to the successful mix of the spy genre with DC's brand of superheroism.
In keeping with the series' tone, Dick became a more 'macho' character. The excess of testosterone is apparent in nearly every panel but jumps straight out of the page during the action sequences. Grayson is also notable for really leaning into Dick's sexy side. Indeed, the series presents him as a suave, devastatingly charming, and handsome man of action, and nowhere is that clearer than on this panel from the series' tenth issue. Dick, in a tux, does the splits and hits two men at once while delivering one of his signature quips. It's the perfect representation of who Dick Grayson is and an ideal illustration to summarize Grayson's entire essence.
The Greatest Force For Good
The relationship between Alfred Pennyworth and Dick Grayson is too special to put into words. The loyal and loving butler practically raised Dick, creating a bond that would leave a lasting impact on both men. Alfred's death hit Dick especially hard, but a well-timed letter would make it all better.
In Nightwing #78, Barbara delivers a letter from Alfred to Dick, in which the butler declares his undying faith for the former boy wonder. "I believe you can be one of the greatest forces for good this world has ever seen." In many ways, Alfred is the most important member of the Bat-Family, so his opinion means the world. Redondo perfectly illustrates Dick's grief at the loss of his father and how touched he is to know that one of the best men he ever knew had such faith in him.
Fly Me To The Circus
DC fans still can't make up their minds about this timeless question: who is Nightwing's true love, Starfire or Batgirl? Both camps have plenty of supporters, and both ships have received considerable comic book coverage. Dick and Kori are the prom King and Queen of the Teen Titans, and he and Barbara are the golden son and daughter of the Bat-Family; all in all, both ships are pretty even. However, Dick and Babs share one of the most endearing first dates in comic book history.
After her paralysis at the Joker's hands, Barbara is understandably having difficulty adjusting. Ever the charmer, Dick takes her "flying." He arranges for the two to use the trapeze at the circus, thus replicating the sensation Babs misses so much. It's an unbelievably sweet moment and a landmark in their relationship. It's also the perfect representation of who Dick Grayson is: a thoughtful young man who brings out the best in others.
Year One
Year One stories are among the best in their respective character's history, and Nightwing is no exception. His Year One follows him as he deals with being fired by Bruce. Disheartened, he seeks comfort from Clark and aids Deadman, becoming more confident in his abilities and eventually following his own path to becoming Nightwing.
Nightwing: Year One also serves as the definite origin story for his and Barbara's romance. The plot presents them as childhood sweethearts who eventually become crime-fighting partners and lovers. The panel that features them embracing as they swing around the city at night is one of the most iconic for both characters. It beautifully showcases their dynamic, proving they are natural-born heroes who actually find enjoyment in their crime-fighting shenanigans, unlike their highly traumatized mentor.
The One, The Only Dynamic Duo
Nightwing learned plenty of things from Batman, creating a profoundly deep bond that forever changed their lives. Their relationship has evolved significantly throughout the years, but nowadays, the comics aren't afraid to declare them father and son.
This comic book panel, from Prelude to the Wedding: Nightwing vs. Hush #1, is a pretty concise summarization of their entire relationship. The issue focuses on who'll be the best man at Bruce and Selina's wedding and features Nightwing and Superman taking Batman out for his bachelor party, which is already iconic enough. Hush ruins the party, and the whole thing ends with an injured Dick having a heart-to-heart with Batman. Even though Bruce picks Clark as his best man, it's not something Dick frets about because he has faith and confidence in his bond with Bruce. Seeing them hanging out and even cracking jokes is every fan's dream.
No Family Like A Bat-Family
Dick loves every member of the Bat-Family, the kindest of them all and the one who's always there when they need him. He's Bruce's favorite son, a mentor for Tim, a loving brother for Damian, and a partner in crime for Jason. He also holds fond memories of his time at Haly's circus and keeps his deceased parents and Alfred close to his heart.
Despite the tragedy of his life, Dick is aware of how fortunate he is, and he never allows himself to forget it. Nightwing #79 includes what is, perhaps, the single best panel in Nightwing's history, a beautiful reflection of his life and everyone who's a part of it. "I've spent my entire life working without a safety net because I've always had someone to catch me if I fell." Seeing Dick's journey is incredible enough, but the art and the writing excel at portraying the emotion behind his words. At his core, Dick is a good man more than a great hero, and that's what makes him such a champion in people's hearts.