Historically, Black Lightning is known as the first Black superhero to headline his own series at DC Comics. Generally, he is best known for the television series based on his adventures that ran for four seasons on The CW. Now, Jefferson Pierce and his family are being reintroduced in a new DC All-In miniseries by Brandon Thomas and Fico Ossio.
The opening pages find Black Lightning taking on new challenges in the wake of the Absolute Power event. The final battle with Amanda Waller and her Amazo army left many metahumans depowered or acquiring new abilities. To that end, Jefferson Pierce is leading a new Justice League Unlimited initiative devoted to helping people safely control their newfound powers. It is a mission that is deeply personal to Jefferson, given his own past. It takes on a new resonance, however, when his eldest daughter, Anissa, turns to him for help.
The first six pages of Black Lightning #1 may be viewed below.
(Image Source: DC / Fico Ossio)
Despite the new mission, Black Lightning #1 will seem familiar to those who only know Jefferson Pierce from the Arrowverse. The preview seems geared toward reaching out to fans of the show, given the prominent roles of Jeff’s ex-wife and daughters. As always, Jeff remains a complex character, seeking balance between his roles as father, teacher, and superhero. The only difference here is his stretching his mentoring duties to the superhero community as a whole.
“This story is highly personal for Jefferson,” noted Thomas, in an interview with The Beat. “Because he’s doing this with the help of his youngest daughter Jennifer, and effectively combining his roles as both Super Hero and educator.” However, beyond his personal problems, the new series will also pit Black Lightning against a new enemy. Thomas describes them as “a mystery rival (who) consolidates power and legitimacy,” turning the public against superheroes.
Black Lightning #1 arrives in comic shops everywhere on November 13, 2024.