Following the many criticism and Twitter uproar on the controversial cover, DC Comics has decided to remove it at the request of the creator, artist Rafael Albuquerque.
- March 18, 2015
AceShowbiz -
Due to the criticism surrounding variant cover for "Batgirl" #41, DC Comics has decided to not publish it. The cover, created by renowned artist Rafael Albuquerque, was released last week, as one of 25 Joker-themed variant covers scheduled for release in June. When making the cover, Albuquerque took inspiration from Alan Moore and Brian Bolland's famous 1988 story "Batman: The Killing Joke."
In the original story, Barbara Gordon/Batgirl was shot and paralyzed by the Joker. Besides, it was widely believed that Batgirl was sexually assaulted by Joker. The Albuquerque's cover version, meanwhile, featured the Joker terrorizing Batgirl with a gun with his lipstick on her face.
It drew controversies and criticism after being launched, considered by many as violent and too dark. Twitter rant has since been launched, with the hashtag #changethecover. Albuquerque was quick to respond by requesting DC Comics to remove the cover. "My intention was never to hurt or upset anyone through my art," the artist said in a statement. "For that reason, I have recommended to DC that the variant cover be pulled."
DC entertainment itself has explained the cover's removal, stating, "Regardless if fans like Rafael Albuquerque's homage to Alan Moore's THE KILLING JOKE graphic novel from 25 years ago, or find it inconsistent with the current tonality of the Batgirl books - threats of violence and harassment are wrong and have no place in comics or society." The statement went on, "We stand by our creative talent, and per Rafael's request, DC Comics will not publish the Batgirl variant. - DC Entertainment."
