DC’s Red Hood Series Cancelled After Writer Gretchen Felker-Martin Mocked Charlie Kirk Shooting, Claimed Police Weren’t People

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DC Comics has terminated the upcoming Red Hood series due to a significant backlash against writer Gretchen Felker-Martin, who identifies as female but is biologically male. The decision was made following Felker-Martin’s controversial comments mocking conservative commentator Charlie Kirk’s hypothetical death and making provocative statements about the police.

Remarks That Sparked Outrage

On the 10th of September, Charlie Kirk got shot during a speech at Utah Valley University. This event quickly became a topic of discussion among people from various political backgrounds. While some showed concern for Kirk’s wellbeing, Felker-Martin responded with mockery on the social media platform Bluesky.

Screenshots show posts attributed to Felker-Martin reading:

  • “Thoughts and prayers you Nazi bh.”*
  • “Hope the bullet’s okay after touching Charlie Kirk.”

The dispute intensified as Felker-Martin shifted focus towards police officers on that same day, explicitly linking the remarks with issue number 1 of Red Hood.

I’ve noticed a lot of people talking about Red Hood Comic #1, and I couldn’t understand what was so appealing until I recalled that the story starts with a group of officers becoming terrified. Personally, I don’t categorize them as ‘people’ in the same way.

Before Bluesky (Felker-Martin’s account) was taken down from the platform, these statements were shared extensively, whether due to suspension or deletion.

DC Comics’ Immediate Response

On the same day that Red Hood comic book series’ first issue was released, DC Comics announced to retailers that the series would no longer continue. The subsequent issues 2 and 3, as well as all future issues, were withdrawn from publication. Moreover, a rare decision was made to credit retailers for Red Hood #1 sales, including those copies already purchased – an action seldom seen in today’s comic book industry.

In an industry report, DC clarified that while they value the diverse perspectives of their creators, any content or comments that could be perceived as encouraging aggression or violence go against DC’s code of appropriate behavior.

The cancellation occurred within just 24 hours following when fans initially spotted Felker-Martin’s comments concerning Kirk being shared on social platforms.

Who Is Gretchen Felker-Martin?

Earlier this year, DC chose Felker-Martin for reimagining Jason Todd, previously Robin turned anti-hero Red Hood, in their publications. Known for his horror novels, Felker-Martin is now working alongside artist Jeff Spokes and cover artist Taurin Clarke, with the aim of portraying a grittier, more violent version of Gotham’s vigilante world.

Instead, it’s worth noting that the debut issue of this series is notorious due to its link with one of the quickest comic cancellations ever by DC Comics.

Fallout and Debate

Instantly, there was a strong reaction. Critics accused Felker-Martin of ridiculing a shooting victim and treating police officers in an inhumane manner. Those backing Charlie Kirk used these comments as proof of prejudice against conservatives within certain sectors of the entertainment world.

Simultaneously, certain supporters contend that ending a comic due to comments made outside of work hours infringes on freedom of speech and creative autonomy. Nevertheless, it seems that DC is reluctant to associate their brand with content perceived as promoting violence.

The Bigger Picture

This event underscores the delicate balance that modern publishing corporations must maintain. Employees have the freedom to express their opinions online, yet if these opinions seem to glorify violent politics or denigrate entire professions, corporations could potentially face damage to their reputation.

In the case of Red Hood, DC’s choice was clear and it has been celebrated by many.

For Felker-Martin, it’s a fresh realization that online comments can lead to serious professional repercussions, particularly when they involve rejoicing over someone else’s misfortune.

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2025-09-11 16:57