Absolute Constantine, Swamp Thing, and More Could Be On The Way

As the popularity of the Absolute Universe continues to grow, so does the demand to see more classic characters make their official debut in the subversive imprint. Overseer Scott Snyder recently hinted that three iconic DC Comics heroes could receive a proper introduction.

In an interview for ComicPop Returns, Snyder revealed that there have been talks to bring Swamp Thing, Constantine, and Aquaman into the Absolute Universe, along with a reason as to why fans may have to wait a bit longer to see them.

"We have some amazing pitches for Swamp Thing and Constantine. There's a really good one for Aquaman that I very badly want to make happen, but we're also really concerned about making sure the line stays small and manageable. So, sometimes, we just want to wait until something like Martian Manhunter closes down, at least for the time being."

The above quote was a response to host Sal Crivelli's question about what sort of characters may have a chance to fill the slot left open by Absolute Martian Manhunter, which will end after 12 issues in June. Snyder even adds that the acclaimed reimagining of the extraterrestrial superhero is concluding to give writer Deniz Camp and artist Javier Rodriguez the opportunity to pursue an unnamed upcoming DC Next Level title.

In that respect, it sounds like a few more beloved Absolute Universe titles may need to see their exit before the emergence of John Constantine, Swamp Thing, and Aquaman can happen. The question is, what would the alternative iterations of these characters look like?

The mantra of the Absolute Universe has always been to strip existing DC characters of their signature advantages, such as making Bruce Wayne a working-class construction worker in Absolute Batman, for instance. Thus, would Absolute Constantine, instead of a magic-wielding occult expert, be an average detective who becomes unwillingly thrust into the unfamiliar world of the supernatural?

Would Absolute Swamp Thing, unlike traditional depictions of Alec Holland, be a fully non-human vegetative entity who suddenly gains sentience, sending it on a surreal journey of self-discovery? Of course, it would only make sense to introduce Absolute Aquaman as a mere Atlantean peasant instead of the reigning king of the underwater city, or perhaps even a darker, more bizarre take on Arthur Curry than that.

Scott Snyder Also Has Absolute Plans For Another Beloved Character

John Constantine, Swamp Thing, and Aquaman were not only names dropped during Scott Snyder's discussion of all things Absolute on ComicPop Returns. He actually has plans for the Absolute Universe debut of Damian Wayne.

The writer mentioned that Bruce Wayne's biological son was left out of the Absolute Robins lineup because, since Absolute Batman is only 25 years old and has yet to meet Talia al Ghul, he could not think of a way to justify his role in this universe. However, he confirms that he managed to dream up an idea that he is excited to show the world, but adds that fans should not expect to see Absolute Damian Wayne until at least 2027.

In response, fans have speculated that this version of the character would not have the last name Wayne, but Grimm, and would be the spawn of Absolute Joker. Seeing as how Jack Grimm IV is envisioned to be a dark reflection of the traditional Bruce Wayne, being a handsome billionaire playboy hiding his monstrous true form, this concept is more likely than Absolute Catwoman being the mother instead.

In fact, Grimm is not only seen as a father figure by the Absolute Robins — namely Dick Grayson, Jason Todd, Tim Drake, Stephanie Brown, and Duke Thomas — but also funds the Robin Program, which was founded to capture Absolute Batman after he was framed for murdering Jim Gordon in Absolute Batman #19. The hunt for The Dark Knight continues in Absolute Batman #20.

Absolute Batman #20 is now in stores.