DC Comics recently made headlines by abruptly canceling its new, mature-rated Red Hood comic just a few hours after its official launch on September 10. This dramatic decision followed controversial comments made by the series writer, Gretchen Felker-Martin, regarding the tragic assassination of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk at Utah University.
On social media, Felker-Martin made remarks and jokes concerning Kirk’s death, which occurred the same day the comic was released. The fallout was swift; the Red Hood title, created by Felker-Martin in collaboration with artist Jeff Spokes, will stop after its initial issue. Orders for the next two installments have been canceled, and comic retailers will be credited for unsold copies of the first issue.
In a statement to Movies & TV, DC Comics emphasized its commitment to its creators and community, recognizing the importance of personal expression. However, they clarified that any posts seen as inciting hostility or violence do not align with their conduct standards.
It is worth noting that Felker-Martin is a trans woman, and throughout his life, Kirk had made numerous anti-trans remarks. This context adds another layer to the conversation surrounding the incident. Other media figures have also faced repercussions for their comments following Kirk’s death. For instance, MSNBC recently fired anchor Matt Dowd for asserting that “hateful thoughts lead to hateful words, which then lead to hateful actions.” His statement reflects a growing concern about the toxic environment that can stem from such rhetoric.
Update (9/11/2025 @ 1:49 PM ET): This story has been updated to include DC’s social media policy.
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What were the reasons behind the cancellation of the Red Hood comic? The abrupt cancellation stemmed from the controversy surrounding the writer’s comments about Charlie Kirk’s assassination, which sparked significant backlash.
How is DC Comics responding to the incident? DC has stated that it values individual expression but firmly opposes any posts promoting hostility or violence, indicating a commitment to upholding professional conduct.
What does this incident say about public figures and their social media presence? It highlights the growing scrutiny of public statements and the potential consequences of controversial remarks in today’s social climate.
How have other media outlets reacted to similar controversies? Numerous outlets, like MSNBC, have taken action against employees for comments perceived as insensitive, signaling a trend of accountability for public figures.
What should creators learn from this scenario? It’s crucial for creators to navigate their personal opinions thoughtfully, especially in the current climate of heightened sensitivity regarding public discourse.
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