In recent years, DC Comics has made significant strides in showcasing lesser-known characters, particularly those that have historically been overlooked. This marks a departure from the 1970s, a time when female characters and niche heroes often lacked the spotlight they deserved. Unfortunately, this oversight led to missed opportunities for truly iconic comics.
As highlighted by a Reddit user, the legendary Jack Kirby once pitched a solo series for Big Barda and her formidable Female Furies, even providing a stunning cover sketch. Kirby, creator of the influential New Gods for DC, was a key figure in the industry at that time. However, his vision for Big Barda’s own series was unfortunately never realized.
Today, Big Barda has blossomed into a beloved character, underscoring the missed opportunity DC faced by not accepting Kirby’s proposal.
Had DC Provided Big Barda With a Solo Comic in the 1970s, She Might Be a Household Name Today
Big Barda ranks among the most compelling female characters in the DC Universe, yet she often doesn’t receive the recognition she merits, particularly when compared to iconic figures like Wonder Woman or Black Canary. The potential for a dedicated Big Barda comic is vast. While Jack Kirby cleverly integrated her character into the Mister Miracle narrative, a series told from Big Barda’s unique perspective would have provided an engaging view of her experiences and challenges far removed from her connection to Scott Free.
A potential series would likely explore her time on Apokolips, commanding the Female Furies, where Big Barda served as one of Darkseid’s elite warriors. She was responsible for managing a team that routinely captured Mister Miracle whenever he escaped, an endeavor that ultimately led to her falling in love with him.
Big Barda’s Rich Character History in the DC Universe Demands Exploration
From Darkseid’s Enforcer to Justice League Heroine
Despite Kirby’s near-fifty-year-old pitch, Big Barda has yet to headline her own comic series. Her appearances have mostly been confined to team books like The Justice League and Birds of Prey, along with titles focusing on Mister Miracle. While it’s commendable that she has been featured across various narratives, the absence of a solo title dedicated to her story is disheartening. Given her ties to Darkseid and her extensive character arc, a solo volume that examines her views on life on Earth—independent of Scott—would be captivating.
Even though she currently appears in Mister Miracle’s series, there is no reason she shouldn’t be featured elsewhere in the DC Universe. Fans know well that established characters often juggle multiple appearances; if Batman can star in several titles simultaneously, why can’t Big Barda also shine in multiple narratives? With the New Gods narrative shifting following Darkseid’s demise, Big Barda’s status as one of his top soldiers should afford her a prominent role in the reimagined New Gods storyline.
Big Barda Truly Deserves Her Moment in the Spotlight
Lois Lane Also Achieved Individual Recognition Apart from Superman
It is encouraging to witness DC’s willingness to give lesser-known characters their own platforms to flourish. Recent developments, such as new books featuring Fire and Ice, highlight this trend. However, it is time for the same approach to apply to Big Barda, allowing her to break free from her association with Mister Miracle. While Scott Free is undeniably an excellent character with his own series history, he can certainly exist independently of Big Barda.
Despite DC Comics’ past decision to reject Jack Kirby’s proposal for her own series, there’s ample opportunity now for Big Barda to explore her narrative. She’s an immensely powerful character who has bested formidable opponents like Wonder Woman and has a rich history that remains untapped.There’s a wealth of storytelling potential within her character, yet DC has yet to prioritize these narratives.
Ultimately, it’s clear that Big Barda deserves a chance to claim her own story. The time has come for her to demonstrate her strength as an independent hero, no longer reliant on her husband to propel her journey.
Source: Reddit
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