Mister Miracle Introduces Darkseid to the DC Universe

Darkseid stands as the ultimate menace in the DC Comics universe. Created by Jewish World War II veteran Jack Kirby, this embodiment of tyranny aims to dominate the world by manipulating minds and uncovering the secrets of the Anti-Life Equation. Initially intended to be the primary antagonist in the DC Extended Universe, Darkseid only made an appearance in Zack Snyder’s version of Justice League. With James Gunn at the helm, there’s a shift away from previous plans, as he launches his DC Universe with characters like Lex Luthor and Brainiac. However, Darkseid is set to make his debut in a new series showcased at the Annecy Festival.

Mister Miracle will adapt Tom King’s acclaimed 2017 miniseries, with King himself serving as executive producer and showrunner. The story centers on Scott Free, the son of Darkseid’s rival, Highfather. To avert conflict between their worlds, Darkseid and Highfather exchanged sons, leading Scott to grow up on the harsh planet of Apokolips before escaping with Big Barda, one of Darkseid’s most formidable warriors.

“It’s my love letter to Jack Kirby,” King expressed during a panel at Annecy. “The characters he created for DC Comics are his most personal work, his most cosmic work, his most existential, where he sought to confront God and depict him on a page.”

The series takes a darker turn, beginning with Scott’s suicide attempt. Following this, Scott must confront his mental health, his bond with Barda, and a new chapter in the ongoing conflict between Apokolips and New Genesis. It contrasts the relatively ordinary lives of Scott and Barda in Coast City, inspired by Los Angeles, with the grand cosmic war they are entwined in. The narrative will also explore Scott’s relationships with Darkseid, Highfather, and Orion, the son of Darkseid raised by Highfather in Scott’s stead.

“It’s not a story about trauma; it’s about what comes after trauma,” King noted. “It’s a tale of rediscovery and love between a husband and wife, lifting each other up, and harnessing that strength to engage in the cosmic battle that Jack Kirby initiated.”

Initially hesitant to adapt Mister Miracle, King was convinced by James Gunn and Peter Safran, co-CEO of DC Studios, to transform the comic into an animated prestige drama reminiscent of Mad Men or The Sopranos.

“This project holds a special place in my heart, not just for me but for a specific audience who can relate to Scott’s journey,” King shared. “For a decade, I’ve heard from fans about the significance of this book, and I feel a deep sense of responsibility towards it.”

Mister Miracle is currently in production with Warner Bros. Animation and Titmouse Paris, the studio behind Scavenger’s Reign and the acclaimed Love, Death & Robots episode “How Zeke Got Religion.” While Darkseid has already been cast, King has yet to disclose the actors involved in the series.