The Batman Beyond canon has been given an injection of new blood these past few months, with Terry McGinnis out of commission, and our of the cowl. But with Gotham City still in need of protection, another hero has risen in his place to become… Batwoman Beyond. And her new foe just happens to be the man responsible for Terry becoming Bruce Wayne’s successor in the first place!

When the word first broke of a woman taking over Batman Beyond in the comics, fans were likely split between excited and outraged. But before anyone accuses DC of fudging with the series, since Terry McGinnis would never just ‘give up’ the role, he actually doesn’t have much of a choice. With his memory erased, and his location in Neo-Gotham unknown, the fact is a new Batman is needed–NOW. In our exclusive preview of Batman Beyond #37 one woman has taken that duty on herself. And when it comes to stopping criminals, she isn’t pulling any punches.

Those who have been reading the Beyond comics know that Terry was recently the victim of False-Face, a villain capable of stealing identities and physical appearances. Bruce Wayne, Matt McGinnis, and Melanie Walker all realized the villain in their midst too late. But thankfully, the future Flash, old Barry Allen swooped in to help them take False-Face down. But with Terry still missing, the previous issue ended with an unknown figure entering the Batcave, and leaving with the Batsuit. Now fans can see her debut in the preview pages below:

While we will always welcome another appearance from the future, digital version of Alfred Pennyworth, most fans will read the preview for their first look at Batwoman Beyond in action. It’s interested that the mysterious Batwoman neither speaks, no appears long enough for anyone–civilian or criminal–to notice that she isn’t the Batman they’re expecting. That avoidance of the spotlight, and preference of keeping up the illusion that Batman is still active may be a key clue in identifying her. That’s something that rings true for both of the most obvious candidates who could access the Batcave and cover for Terry. One being Melanie Walker, the former Ten of Hearts, or possibly Barbara Gordon, returning to a role she hasn’t fought in for decades.

Frankly, the fact both choices seem obvious means they may be less likely (Maxine Gibson, anyone?). But whoever is under the cowl as Batwoman Beyond, she’s up to the task of saving innocents and beating the guilty. Readers who want to see the rest of the story play out can read the official solicitation details and plot synopsis below, before the full issue arrives in store Wednesday:

  • BATMAN BEYOND #37 (2019) Release Date: October 23rd, 2019 Written by: Dan Jurgens Art by: Sean Chen Cover Art by: Lee Weeks Variant Cover by: Francis Manapul In the wake of his fateful showdown with False Face and the Splitt, the Batman of tomorrow has gone missing! With the Caped Crusader AWOL and Neo-Gotham facing the threat of one of the deadliest villains it’s ever known, a new hero is needed! Bruce Wayne will turn to friends both old and new in order to keep his city safe, but that won’t be enough. Fortunately, a new and mysterious protector will arrive on the scene, taking flight to save the city!

Batman Beyond #37 will be available from your local comic book shop on October 23rd, or direct from DC Comics.

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