After a Wait, DC Is Ready to Answer How in the World Deathstroke Is Still Alive

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Deathstroke’s apparent death during the Dark Crisis event left a significant void in mainstream continuity, sparking speculation about the true fate of one of DC’s most iconic mercenaries. Though Slade Wilson reemerged several months ago, DC has yet to reveal how he survived, leaving fans with more questions than answers. However, it seems this mystery is finally about to be addressed in an upcoming issue of Titans.

Set for release on April 16, 2025, Titans #22 by John Layman and Daniel Bayliss is shaping up to be a Deathstroke-centric issue, judging by both the cover art and the synopsis. While Deathstroke made his return to mainstream continuity in Titans #17 (2024), his reappearance has remained shrouded in mystery, leaving fans eager for answers concerning his return.

Now, it seems Layman is ready to tackle those questions head-on, with the synopsis of Titans #22 confirming that Slade was thought to be dead and promising to reveal how he managed to escape death—a mystery that has lingered since his last appearance.

Yes, Deathstroke Is Back, But What Does He Want?

Cover B Card Stock Variant by Tony S. Daniel for Titans #22 (2025)

While the mystery of how Deathstroke survived likely won’t be solved until April 16, we do know what has brought the mercenary out of hiding—he’s aiming to take down both the Titans and the newly reformed Justice League. This goal may also provide the in-narrative explanation for his absence in recent years, suggesting that Slade has been working behind the scenes, quietly plotting his attack on Earth’s heroes. As for his specific plans regarding the Titans, we have some additional details.

From the information revealed in Titans #17-19, we know that Deathstroke intends to dismantle both the Titans and the Justice League by assembling a supervillain team. So far, he’s been operating from the shadows, taking care not to alert the Titans to his presence. This allows him to build his team’s strength and numbers without interference. Moreover, Slade has been orchestrating strategic attacks on the heroes, making them appear random by using various other supervillains as pawns. In Titans #19, the latest twist in his plan is revealed: he intends to exploit Psycho-Pirate’s emotion-manipulating powers to target a vulnerable Raven, taking out one of the Titans’ most formidable members.

Deathstroke Returning to His Roots as a Titans Villain Is a Major Win

Cover C Card Stock Variant by Daniel Bayliss for Titans #22 (2025)

Deathstroke is arguably the most iconic Titan villain, so it’s exciting to see him fully embrace his villainous nature and turn his attention back to the team. In recent years, DC has explored storylines where Slade was portrayed more as an anti-hero, and in the few instances where he reverted to his classic villainous self, he typically targeted DC’s heroes as a whole rather than focusing solely on the Titans. While we still don’t have all the answers about his return, it’s refreshing to see Deathstroke in full villain mode, playing such a central role in the Titans narrative—something many fans have undoubtedly missed.

TITANS #22 is available April 16, 2025, from DC Comics!

“}]] DC will finally answer our Deathstroke questions.  Read More