“If You Want Change, Buy Comics”—Graham Nolan Claps Back at Critics

Graham Nolan, the legendary co-creator of Bane, is not holding back when it comes to DC Comics’ latest take on his iconic villain. With the upcoming release of Absolute Batman #9, Nolan has publicly criticized Bane’s redesign, calling it a “terrible abomination.” His comments have ignited a heated debate among comic book fans, with reactions pouring in across social media.

Nolan vs. DC’s New Bane

DC Comics’ Absolute Batman series has been making waves, but its latest issue has landed in controversy. The storyline sees Batman infiltrating the mysterious Ark M facility, where a new version of Bane is introduced. However, Nolan is far from impressed. He took to social media to express his disapproval, and his comments have since racked up over 2.1 million views.

For Nolan, this redesign strays too far from the original vision he and writer Chuck Dixon created back in Batman: Vengeance of Bane (1993). The character, known for his brute strength and tactical genius, has remained a fan-favorite, making any changes to his design a sensitive subject for longtime readers.

The Fan Reaction

While some fans agree with Nolan and feel DC Comics has taken unnecessary creative liberties, others are more open to the fresh take on Bane. In response to the backlash, Nolan challenged readers to actually buy the comics, stating, “If every one of you were buying comics instead of reacting to the opinion of one guy, this business would be in better shape.”

His comment highlights an ongoing issue in the comic book industry—fans are often quick to criticize but don’t always support the books financially.

What’s Next?

Absolute Batman #9, featuring the new Bane design, is set to hit shelves on June 11, 2025. The issue is written by Scott Snyder with artwork by Nick Dragotta, promising a visually stunning but potentially divisive addition to the series.

As the debate rages on, one thing is clear—Bane’s legacy in the Batman universe is as strong as ever, and any changes to his character won’t go unnoticed. Whether fans embrace or reject this new vision, it’s a reminder that in the world of comics, even the smallest redesign can create massive ripples.

Will you be picking up Absolute Batman #9, or are you siding with Nolan on this one? Let us know your thoughts!