DC Studios Unveils Three New Animated Series, Including Absolute Batman and First-Ever Joker Anime
DC Studios and Warner Bros. Animation have announced three major animated projects, including an adaptation of the hit comic series Absolute Batman, a Joker-led anime, and a new show centered on Superman’s loyal companion, Krypto the Superdog.
The announcements were made at the 2026 Annecy International Animation Film Festival by Sam Register, president of Warner Bros. Animation, Hanna-Barbera Studios Europe and Cartoon Network Studios, alongside Peter Safran, co-chairman and co-CEO of DC Studios.
Absolute Batman Heads to Animation
One of the biggest reveals was Absolute Batman, an animated adaptation of Scott Snyder’s bestselling comic series that debuted in 2024 and has already sold more than six million copies worldwide.
Snyder will serve as executive producer and showrunner, while artist Nick Dragotta joins as producer. The series reimagines Batman as a working-class hero battling corruption, power and inequality while trying to prove that a single person can still make a difference.
The project is currently in development.
DC’s First-Ever Anime Puts Joker in the Spotlight
DC also announced Joker: Laugh Riot, marking the studio’s first anime series.
Directed by acclaimed animator Yasuhuro Aoki, the story takes a bold new direction for Gotham’s most infamous villain. The plot begins after Batman is mysteriously murdered, prompting the Joker to launch a brutal search for the killer.
As he tears through Gotham’s criminal underworld seeking answers, the Joker finds himself confronting an unsettling reality — without Batman, he may no longer understand who he truly is.
The series reflects DC’s growing investment in anime-inspired storytelling.
Krypto Gets His Own Adventure
Another project unveiled at Annecy is an untitled animated series focused on Krypto the Superdog.
The story follows Superman’s beloved canine companion as he becomes involved with a group of small-time criminals living nearby. While the gang initially appears headed for trouble, Krypto’s unwavering optimism and good-hearted nature gradually begin to change their lives for the better.
More DC Projects on the Way
The presentation also offered new looks at several upcoming DC animated titles, including future installments of Creature Commandos, My Adventures with Superman, Batman: Caped Crusader, Mister Miracle, Starfire and DC Superpowers.
Meanwhile, on DC’s Vertigo side, Get Jiro — based on the bestselling graphic novels by late celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain and Joel Rose — is set to premiere on Adult Swim later this year.
With a mix of superheroes, anime storytelling and family-friendly adventures, DC Studios is expanding its animated universe in a big way.
News Source : Information for this article was gathered from a variety of reliable news outlets.
