14 best and worst retcons in comic book history

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Andy Serkis, Alfred Pennnyworth, The Batman, Batman, comic book

LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 23: Andy Serkis attends a special screening of The Batman at BFI IMAX Waterloo on February 23, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Lia Toby/Getty Images) /

Alfred was hired by adult Bruce Wayne

Alfred Pennyworth became the most important person in Bruce Wayne and Batman’s history. He had an integral part in forming him into being the greatest detective in the world. Alfred would leave books around the Wayne compound and a young Bruce would have to find them. While Bruce was Batman, Alfred was in the Bat-Cave organizing, helping to make sure his son wasn’t hurt. He even dressed up as Batman and went face to face with someone who took out the Justice League. All of this wouldn’t be as important if the original story of Alfred Pennyworth being hired by Bruce as an adult was still intact.

Comic book retcon rating: Great

In Alfred Pennyworth’s first appearance (Batman No. 16), Bruce Wayne was grown and Dick Grayson was already staying at Wayne Manor. This origin takes away from everything that Alfred was to Batman. It actually hurts the relationships he has with Superman and Wonder Woman. The two of them trust Alfred because he was like a father to Bruce. Not just some guy serving a debt.

Then there’s the death of Alfred in Batman: City of Bane. Alfred’s death wouldn’t have meant as much if he was someone they met as an adult. Sure, it would’ve been sad, but not as emotional. Especially with the audio message Alfred left in case of his death.

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