Despite being only a handful of issues in,AbsoluteBatmanhas already introduced an impressive lineup of the Dark Knight’s most iconic villains to the Absolute Universe. Now, another addition to this alternate rogues’ gallery is on the horizon, as DC teases the arrival of Mr. Freeze in April.
…fans could be in for a radically different take on Mr. Freeze.
Set for release on July 09, 2025,Absolute Batman#7 by Scott Snyder and guest artist Marcos Martín will introduce Victor Fries to the narrative. This exciting announcement comes as part of DC’s April solicitations, thrilling fans of the best-selling series, which recently earned the title of2024’s best-selling comicwith its debut issue.
According to the synopsis, issue #7 willexplore the connections between “a young, up-and-coming scientist named Victor Fries, his history with the Ark M experiment, and what it all has to do with the mysterious Joker."
Mr. Freeze Joins the Absolute Universe – How Will He Be Different From His Earth-Prime Counterpart?
Cover D 1:25 Card Stock Variant by Jeffrey Alan Love forAbsolute Batman #2 (2024)
Based on the synopsis referring to Mr. Freeze by his civilian name, Victor Fries, rather than his villainous moniker,it’s likely that the Absolute Universe version of this iconic character has yet to fully embrace his darker roots.However, with mentions of his connections to Ark M and the Joker—who Snyder has confirmed as a villain—Victor is probably not entirely innocent and may already be involved in some nefarious schemes. As such, this reimagining of the character leaves us uncertain about what to expect.
That said, the synopsis does provide some intriguing hints about the Absolute version of Victor Fries. Notably, Snyder seems intent on preserving the essence of the character, as Victor is still a scientist in this universe. However, the descriptors“young”and“up-and-coming”mark a departure from his traditional portrayal as an older, well-established figure in his field.This aligns with the trend of Absolute characters being younger than their Earth-Prime counterparts, suggesting that this Victor may not yet have endured the heartbreak of losing his wife—a defining element of his Earth-Prime origin and motivations. As a result, fans could be in for a radically different take on Mr. Freeze.
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Absolute Batman Teases New & Intriguing Villain Dynamics
Comic Panel Comes FromAbsolute Batman #1 (2024) – Art by Nick Dragotta
Based on the synopsis, it appears that Mr. Freeze’s character will be tied to the Joker, introducing an intriguing new dynamic between the two. While Joker and Freeze have interacted in Prime-Earth continuity and share a bond as members of Batman’s infamous rogues' gallery, their relationship has never been a defining aspect of either character. Snyder seems poised to change that inAbsolute Batman, crafting a more intricate connection between the two than fans have previously seen. Hence, this fresh take could offer an exciting exploration ofMr. FreezeandJoker’srelationship within the Absolute Universe.
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Snyder recently teased the Joker’s return to the Absolute Batman storyline and how the villain will be unlike anything Batman has ever encountered.
