(Editor’s Note: The following interview ran in the March 29, 2025 issue of the AIPT Newsletter.)
The DC Universe is very much like a nation-state. So much so, in fact, that it now has its very own news network.
Starting this week, comic book expert Alex Jaffe serves as both host and producer of the unofficial, in-universe news podcast DC Action News. In it, Jaffe acts as a news reporter, diving into the current events of DC Comics. The show is presented with a great balance of seriousness and humor, and in just over eight minutes, expertly spotlights how much is going on in the DC Universe in any given week. The very first episode is out now (wherever you find podcasts) and it is a true delight.
We caught up recently with Jaffe to talk all things DC Action News, including the show’s development process, its connection to the New 52, long-term plans and goals, and much more.
From the New 52. Courtesy of DC Comics.
AIPT: Where did the idea for DC Action News come from? Did it start as an in-universe news show?
Alex Jaffe: I’ve had the idea to do a news show from a fictional world since I was 10 years old. I was thinking about what it would be like to be a reporter in the world of Mario, or Pokémon, or Metropolis since I could write. In 2011, DC had this backup feature called “Channel 52” which promoted new releases with a similar premise. It was cool to see, but I always thought you could do more with it.
Since gaining more podcast experience with my other shows, Insert Credit and 52 Pickup, and getting more access and ability to write about DC through my work for dc.com, I realized that my editor Esper [Quinn] and I were finally ready to take this on. It’s been a lot of work, but it’s the most fun I’ve ever had on a project, and I’m really proud of how it turned out.
AIPT: I remember “Channel 52!” Fun concept, but definitely felt like an afterthought. So, this has been gestating for a long time, how does it feel now that it’s out there?
AJ: Better than I could have imagined. Esper Quinn is the best audio editor in podcasting, and I’m so lucky to be partnered with her for this. The soundscapes she’s created for each episode really make it come alive. Even though I write and record it, every finished episode surprises me.
AIPT: Who do you see as the ideal listener? Someone who is tapped into current DC Comics events? A more casual reader trying to get into comics?
AJ: I’m hoping DC Action News has something for everyone. There are deep cut jokes for long-time fans, but the central premise is to plainly address how absurd it must be to live in a world that’s threatened 14 times a week every week. At launch day, I’ve already heard from listeners who have discovered stories they’re interested in reading more about through my overview on the show. That kind of feels like my job is done.
How will this impact your daily commute?! Courtesy of DC Comics.
AIPT: That’s something I appreciate about your podcast 52 Pickup, you’re always encouraging readers not to be afraid to explore. Is that exploration and ethos part of DC Action News as well? Elevating stories that don’t involve the A-listers?
AJ: Absolutely. Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman will always be in there, but the whole idea is to cover everything happening in the line. If something happens in Metamorpho that would make headlines if it happened in real life, you’re going to hear about it. On DC Action News, all titles are equal.
AIPT: Do you have long-term plans for the show? Guests and cameos, maybe?
AJ: We’ve definitely got plans. In our second episode, you’re going to start hearing “ads” from established in-universe characters, and an expansion into exploring the multiverse through “correspondent” Alex Jaffe. And interviews will happen! I’m currently scheduling a sit down with Daily Planet Editor-in-Chief Lois Lane to discuss the “Superwoman” of Metropolis. Excited to get some answers about why we’ve never seen Ms. Lane and Superman’s new partner at the same time.
AIPT: That’s so exciting. Applying in-universe rules to the storytelling you’re doing sounds like a lot of fun. I’m seriously looking forward to hearing more from this young upstart reporter!
AJ: Like Lois herself, we’re gunning for that Pulitzer!
‘DC Action News’ episode one is out now! Read More