DC Cancels Red Hood Series Amid Controversy Over Social Media Post

DC Comics has canceled its newly launched Red Hood comic series after just one issue, following controversial social media posts by writer Gretchen Felker-Martin. The series, which debuted on 10 September 2025, featured Jason Todd (Red Hood) and Huntress in a gritty, mature-rated storyline set in the fictional city of New Angelique. The cancellation was prompted by Felker-Martin's remarks on Bluesky regarding the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, which DC deemed inconsistent with its standards of conduct.

Following Kirk's death during a speaking event at Utah Valley University, Felker-Martin made inflammatory comments on Bluesky about Charlie Kirk's death. These posts were widely circulated before her account was suspended. DC Comics responded swiftly, canceling issues #2 and #3 and crediting retailers for the first issue.

DC Comics emphasized its commitment to maintaining a respectful environment, stating that Felker-Martin's comments violated its standards of conduct. The publisher's decision reflects a broader trend in the industry, where creators' public statements increasingly impact their professional opportunities. This incident has sparked discussions about the balance between free expression and corporate responsibility in the entertainment industry.

The cancellation of the Red Hood series raises questions about the future of creator-driven projects in the comics and graphic novel industries. While publishers strive to uphold ethical standards, they must also navigate the complexities of supporting diverse voices and perspectives. As the industry evolves, it will be crucial to find a balance that respects both creative freedom and community standards.

Gretchen Felker-Martin is known for producing work that explores provocative and socially conscious themes, often challenging mainstream cultural norms. Her comments on Bluesky were fueled by her political and ideological opposition to Kirk’s conservative activism. Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, had been a polarizing figure in U.S. politics, frequently criticized by progressive commentators for his rhetoric. Felker-Martin’s posts were seen by some as an extreme response to this.

Social media platforms like Bluesky, X (formerly Twitter), and Mastodon often amplify strong political or emotional statements. The combination of instant reach, anonymity, and echo chambers encourages users, including creators in comics and graphic novels, to make bold, provocative remarks. These statements can go viral quickly, attracting both support and condemnation. Felker-Martin herself acknowledged that the posts were meant to express frustration and satire, but underestimated the public and corporate reaction.

This is not the first time comic industry professionals have faced backlash over social media activity. In 2024, comic artist Joshua Middleton faced criticism for tweets questioning gender and race representation in a major superhero series, resulting in a temporary suspension from DC projects. Similarly, in 2023, Marvel writer Ta-Nehisi Coates received both acclaim and criticism for political commentary on X-Men characters, highlighting the fine line creators walk between personal expression and corporate expectations.

The cancellation of the Red Hood series reflects the high stakes for creators navigating social media, corporate oversight, and audience expectations. While Felker-Martin’s work continues to resonate with fans who value bold storytelling, the incident has reignited debates over free expression, ethical conduct, and the responsibility of artists in a hyper-connected digital age.

As the comic industry evolves, the balance between creative freedom and professional accountability remains central. The Felker-Martin controversy serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating how a single social media post can dramatically affect both a creator’s career and the trajectory of a major comic series.