*Cover to* ***“Absolute Superman #16”*** (published February 4th, 2026) written by Jason Aaron with art by Juan Ferrerya
Cover art by Rafa Sandoval and Ulises Arreola

The world of the Absolute Universe gets bigger each week it seems as we see more and more classic DC characters become reimagined for the imprint that has taken the industry by storm. In the pages of Absolute Superman, we witness Superman encountering his first fellow superhero in the form of Hawkman. But is Hawkman even what we could call a superhero? More than that, how will he respond to Superman making such huge waves across the world following defeating Lazarus and its leader, Ra’s al Ghul?

Join me as I break down issue #16 of Absolute Superman and give my thoughts on it as a whole as we jump straight into part two of the “Never-Ending Begins” arc!

Warning: This article will contain spoilers for “Absolute Superman #16.”

The Origin of Hawkman Revealed

The hierarchy of power the Absolute Universe is about to change!

Our issue begins with a flashback to 1940 in the Sinai Peninsula, within the nation of Kahndaq. That brief introduction—accompanied by a hieroglyphic image of a thunderbolt—immediately sets a brooding tone as the DC Absolute Universe continues its expansive world-building. Two archaeologists confirm what the narrative text suggests: the tomb of Teth-Adam has been found.

As the men descend, they discover hieroglyphics suggesting the tomb is home to various treasures, including a large, ornate mace deeply embedded in the wall. We soon learn that one of the men is Dr. Carter Hall and that the expedition is being funded by Lazarus Corp. This is a brilliant nod to the broader lore; it reiterates what Ra’s al Ghul has been claiming—that his company has had its hands in human history, research, and development for countless lifetimes.

However, the expedition takes a dark turn when Hall’s associate, Bradford, cuts his rope. Revealing himself to be a traitor on the Nazi payroll, Bradford scoffs that Berlin pays better than Lazarus ever could. As Hall dangles over a deadly drop, he shouts that if the legends are true, this tomb contains artifacts that could change the course of the war—and he refuses to let them fall into Hitler’s hands. Bradford merely sneers, grimly noting that just because the Allies are fighting Hitler, it doesn’t automatically make them the "good guys." He leaves a straining Hall to his fate and descends further into the darkness. As Hall’s grip finally fails, he instinctively reaches for the handle of the giant mace. He screams as a strange, golden substance begins to envelop his hand and wrist...

We cut outside the tomb to a well—presumably the entrance Hall and Bradford used—as the Peacemaker Corps rallies to the pit after hearing screams and gunfire. They demand ropes and peer into the depths, spotting a strange, winged figure. They shout for the being to put its hands in the air, but the figure calmly responds that he knows how this looks—but to trust him... he’s one of the "good guys."

We are then treated to a glorious image of a blood-streaked Carter Hall flying out of the well, his newfound wings spread triumphantly as the Peacemakers watch in awe. It’s a powerful moment that effectively gives us the origin of Absolute Hawkman.

Some “Friendly” Advice

Superman is still dealing with the ramifications of his sensitive hearing picking up every cry for help.

In the present, we pick up where our last issue left off: Hawkman confronting Superman in the skies above as the latter is struggling to block out the constant cries for help he hears around the world. Hawkman is in the middle of explaining that he’s one of the "good guys," but Superman is far too distracted by his dialed-in senses to listen. Just as Hawkman offers his help, Superman bolts—returning a moment later to apologize, explaining he heard a door fall off a plane over Cleveland and had to intervene. Clearly annoyed, Hawkman reiterates that they have a lot to discuss and that he’s been watching Kal-El for some time... only for Superman to vanish again. He returns sheepishly, admitting he thought he heard someone choking, though it turned out to be a "weird laugher." He suggests they table the discussion, but Hawkman isn't having it. He firmly grasps Superman’s wrist, sternly telling him not to walk away again.

When Superman remarks that there are people in trouble, Hawkman callously replies that there are always people in trouble, but "they’re talking here." Superman pulls his hand back, noting Hawkman’s incredible grip strength and asking if he’s even from Earth. Hawkman dryly replies that he was born and raised in Gotham City—though you wouldn’t catch him dead there these days.

His helm and bandages retract, revealing the rugged, worn visage of Carter Hall. He formally introduces himself and explains that while he is human, his suit is alien—composed of Nth Metal from a planet called Thanagar. He asks Superman if the name rings a bell, assuming Kal is "from out there," to which a surprised Superman asks who told him he was an alien. Hall simply smiles smugly, noting that Superman just told him himself. "You have a lot to learn," Hall remarks, inviting the Last Son of Krypton to take a walk with him.

In Metropolis, we see agents from the Global Anti-Terrorism and Emergency Services division—better known as G.A.T.E.S.—hauling crates from a Lazarus Corp facility while a Peacemaker agent watches from the shadows. We soon discover he’s in direct contact with Lady Talia al Ghul. After confirming he has "eyes on the prize" and realizing no backup is coming, the agent suddenly opens fire on a specific crate, declaring "Lazarus means forever" in ominous fashion.

As the crate ruptures, we’re met with a gruesome and horrifying sight: a purple mist wafts around the nearest G.A.T.E.S. agent as tendrils reach out, burrowing into his skin and orifices.

Hawkman takes it upon himself to attempt the mentor the young hero, and in doing so, isn’t above teaching him harsh lessons.

Hawkman and Superman fly side-by-side as the retired archaeologist explains that Kal-El isn't the first flying powerhouse to grace the skies. In fact, even Hawkman wasn't the first, and he’s been active since the '40s. A shocked Superman can't believe there are others with similar abilities, but Hawkman confirms it, dropping references to a "big bat out east," a "witch in the west," a "runaway from Project Olympus," and whatever "landed on Evergreen."

While Superman doesn't recognize those figures, Hawkman presses the issue, noting that plenty of powered individuals have tried to change the world before. The conversation takes a darker turn as Hawkman asks if he recognizes the names Iron Munro, Wesley Dodds, Doctor Fate, or Oliver Queen. When Superman admits he doesn't, Hawkman bluntness is chilling: "They were stupid."

We finally get to the heart of the matter: Hawkman warns Superman that he’s being too brazen and needs to step out of the spotlight. He coldly informs the Kryptonian that there will inevitably be a "response" to his heroics—a concept Superman can't even fathom. Hawkman boasts that he has saved countless lives without a single person ever knowing his name because he did it the "smart way," prompting Superman to ask the obvious question: "What way is that?"

Yeah, I’m pretty sure Bradford isn’t going to enjoy spending any of that money he betrayed Hall for.

In response, we get a brief fleeting flashback to back inside the tomb of Teth-Adam as Carter swings his mace directly into the face at Bradford.

It’s a delight to see that Kal can still joke now and then.

In the present, Hawkman explains that he can show Superman the "right way" forward, insisting he doesn’t want Kal-El to end up like the others who ignored his counsel. He offers to take Superman under his proverbial—and literal—wings, but his first piece of advice is a hard pill to swallow: Superman needs to let go of his feud with Lazarus Corp.

Naturally, this triggers immediate pushback. Hawkman argues that Lazarus is simply too powerful, and the people behind it won’t tolerate a crusade against them; he even compares Superman's mission to suicide. Superman, of course, isn't buying it—especially given the laundry list of crimes the company has committed against him, his friends, and the entire planet.

As Hawkman begins to lecture him about the "big picture," he notices Kal’s distant, distracted expression. He warns Superman that if he walks away again after Hawkman put his own neck on the line to meet him, they’re going to have a serious problem. Amusingly, Superman agrees not to walk away; instead, he uses his Sunstone cape to wrap Hawkman up and shoots off toward the next crisis he’s overheard. The issue ends with Hawkman shouting in fierce protest as he is literally dragged along in tow.

No Good Deed Goes Unpunished

Back in Metropolis, we find Lois Lane appearing a bit lost as she stands before a dilapidated building, with the iconic Daily Planet globe looming in the background. A man carrying a box and nursing a cigar stops to correct her: the Daily Planet hasn't actually been in the "spinning globe" building for twenty years—that’s all condos now. The real office is the worn, unimpressive structure behind him.

The man wishes her luck on her interview, prompting a surprised Lois to ask how he knew why she was there. He reveals he’s a fan of her work, describing her prose as "more Faulkner than Hemingway" (especially regarding her Superman coverage), but admits she has "the goods." When she asks for his name, we are formally introduced to the Absolute Perry White, editor of the Planet’s Metro Desk for thirty-five years—up until ten minutes ago.

Perry explains he was let go to make room for a "new kid" who will work for pennies, but he seems remarkably unbothered. He fondly recalls a time when the Planet actually meant something, comparing its current state to something worse than the Titanic. He leaves Lois with a gritty, almost Jack Kirby-esque warning: "The business will break your heart, kid."

Jimmy, in virtually every universe, has some of the most insane strokes of luck.

Right after the fact, Lois gets a text message from Jimmy Olsen who excitedly tells her he got a job at the Daily Planet and follows that up by asking her if she has any idea what a “metro desk editor” does. Jimmy asks if she’s had her interview yet as the sounds of screaming prompt Lois to look up to see a startling sight: people running away as strange tendrils are grasping people off the streets…

Meanwhile, as Superman races toward Metropolis, he spots a crisis—one that we, the readers, can't quite see yet. He releases Hawkman from his cape, urging the veteran "hero" to help him respond, but Hawkman’s answer is a thunderous blow to Kal-El’s back with his oversized mace. The strike sends Superman crashing through the roof of a parking garage. As Kal gets his bearings, he demands to know what the hell is wrong with Hall, reminding him that people need help right now.

Hall isn't listening. He tells Kal that he needs to be taught a lesson—here and now. He callously tells Superman to "let the people scream" and focus on whether he can even save himself.

Having heard enough, Kal unleashes his heat vision, but the results are shocking: they have almost no effect. Hawkman dismissively shrugs off the "microwave eyes" as he descends, using his razor-sharp wings to actually draw blood from the Man of Steel. When Superman tries to counter with his Sunstone cape, Hawkman easily evades the attack and electrifies his mace, effectively dispersing the cape's energy. Superman charges in with raw anger, but the seasoned Hawkman proceeds to methodically dismantle him. He chastises Kal for being strong and fast yet "clumsy and inexperienced," warning him that he’ll be dead within a week without guidance. As he continues the beatdown, Hall drops a stinging question: "Did you ever even win a fight before you got powers?"

Hawkman uses his vast experience to dominate Superman in combat.

In what is the most badass scene in the book—hands down—Kal admits that Hall is right: he never did get into a fight before he had powers. But he certainly has them now. He catches Hawkman’s mace mid-swing and, with a single counter-blow, sends the veteran crashing through several buildings and down into the subway in a spectacular spread.

To his credit, Hawkman is back on his feet instantly, flying back up to ground level. However, he finally sees what Superman spotted upon their arrival in Metropolis. Whatever it is, it's enough to make even the seasoned adventurer pause and ask, "What in the name of all that’s holy is that?" Superman doesn't miss a beat, doubling down with a final ultimatum: Hawkman can either help him save Metropolis or stay out of his way.

A monstrous roar from off-panel gives way to a disturbing sight: a giant, purple-mawed abomination, sporting the same horrifying tendrils we saw earlier at the docks. As both Superman and Hawkman take to the skies to confront the threat, a single panel reveals the contents of the crate the Peacemaker shot—and it’s a wild reveal. The label reads: "WARNING: Infectious Substance. Project: PARASITE."

Enter: LEX LUTHOR

Our issue nears its conclusion, shifting from the chaotic streets of Metropolis to the quiet suburbs of Missouri. It’s an idyllic scene: two men speaking on the front porch of a modest home. The first man—a redhead with a beard and a flannel shirt—is revealed to be this world's Lex Luthor, who has apparently been given a generous offer he doesn’t quite understand.

The second man ironically resembles the classic, bald version of Lex. He explains that, following his extensive research, Lex is the absolute perfect candidate for his mysterious project. In this brief exchange, we learn a great deal about this version of Luthor: he’s a small-town gas station owner who coaches Little League football and is happily married with two children, Lena and Alex.

When the stranger informs Lex that the project focuses on a "particularly special individual" named Superman, Lex simply shrugs. He explains that he doesn't follow the news; he’s far more concerned with his yard and his family than some guy in a cape.

A Lex Luthor who’s happy? Genuinely happy and loved? This can’t last.

The stranger offers Lex any conceivable amount of money—literally inviting him to add as many zeroes as he’d like. But as they move to the backyard, revealing a lively birthday celebration filled with neighbors and family, Lex politely declines. He is happy and content with the life he has; he can’t take a job that would pull him away from his family.

The stranger notes how disappointing this refusal is, but Lex, ever the gracious host, insists the man stay for a slice of cake. He realizes, however, that he never actually got the man's name.

The stranger coldly remarks that he won’t be leaving at all as his disguise begins to fail, the holographic imaging fading before our eyes. He informs Lex that he is not the "Lex Luthor" he expected to find. He reveals that in his studies across the multiverse, he found a Luthor whose ambition knew no bounds—a man who rose up to throttle gods with his own hands and carve his name in blood across the stars. He sneers at the Lex before him, calling him a pitiful, hollow shell who lacks the "necessary motivation" to become the person he’s meant to be.

Absolute Brainiac is quickly rising the ranks to become most likely the most immediately terrifying and horrific version of the classic Superman villain.

The issue ends as the stranger, revealed of course to be Brainiac, fully drops his disguise and brandishes lethal chainsaws on either arm as he sinisterly tells Lex he can be quite motivating as the horrified members of Lex’s family and neighbors watch on in sheer terror.

The Expansion of the Absolute Universe

Some things never change and Hawkman killing Nazis is one of them.

Assuming you stuck with me through that synopsis, folks, I think we can all collectively agree that Absolute Superman #16 has a massive amount going for it! We get confirmation that Teth-Adam exists in this reality, delve into the origins of Absolute Hawkman, meet Absolute Perry White, and get our first look at Absolute Parasite—all in a single issue. We also discover that Brainiac is aware of realities beyond the Absolute Universe, as evidenced by his disappointment that this version of Lex Luthor doesn’t chomp at the bit to work alongside him.

Jason Aaron handles this world-building organically, dropping lore and fleshing out the setting in a way that always services the plot. The exchange between Superman and Hawkman is brilliantly executed, highlighting how vastly different these two beings are. Hawkman is a defender of the status quo, urging Superman to work with Lazarus Corp rather than against them.

Recalling the Absolute Evil one-shot from last year, we know Carter Hall was once a traditional hero but has since become an assassin for Veronica Cale—the man responsible for Oliver Queen’s brutal murder. His offer of mentorship comes with heavy caveats: the people he serves don’t want the world changed, let alone saved. This is in direct opposition to Superman, who cannot grasp the concept of ignoring those in need or partnering with a company responsible for so much destruction. Their inevitable brawl is more than just a superhero trope; it represents a clash between the established system and radical, powerful change. Given everything in the real-world news right now, it’s no wonder these comics resonate so deeply.

Hawkman represents the status quo of the dark Absolute Universe, whereas Superman exists to challenge it.

Hawkman serves as both a moral and physical foil to Superman, and both roles are handled with incredible depth. We’re still missing a few key details—specifically how someone like Carter, a man who fought Nazis, would now willingly serve as a contracted killer for some of the worst people imaginable—but overall, I loved how his origin ties into the foundation for the eventual Absolute Black Adam and Shazam arcs.

Traditionally, Hawkman’s lore is—well, "convoluted" isn’t a strong enough word, and I say that as a fan. But here, the narrative is refreshingly simple and hasn't gone off the rails just yet (though there’s always time!). The battle between the two also establishes exactly how formidable Carter is; it explains why murdering Oliver Queen was such a trivial affair for him. While he lacks Kal-El’s raw strength and speed, his decades of combat experience were on full display as he methodically dismantled the Man of Steel. Their fight is cut short before anyone is critically injured, but it's clear why he’s on Cale’s payroll. My only real criticism is that Absolute Evil feels like required reading to fully appreciate his presence here.

I’m already loving this version of Perry White.

I enjoyed seeing Lois Lane (and Jimmy) take steps toward becoming the intrepid reporters they’re traditionally known to be—albeit with that signature Absolute twist. While I hope we see more of Perry White, I have to admit that Jimmy Olsen taking his job while being completely underqualified is not only hilarious but also a sobering commentary on the modern workforce.

Speaking from experience, I’ve also been let go and replaced by a younger employee commanding a much smaller salary—and I haven’t even hit 40 yet! It’s these small, grounded details, juxtaposed with over-the-top super-powered action, that make this title feel... real, for lack of a better word.

The threat of Absolute Parasite is gruesome and terrifying, reimagining the classic Superman villain as a viral contamination rather than just a hapless schmuck in the wrong place at the wrong time. We don’t yet have the finer details on how this Parasite functions, gains mass, or what truly happens to its victims, but I suspect we’ll see exactly how dangerous it is when Superman and Hawkman contend with it in the next issue.

It’s also important to note that the al Ghuls—specifically Talia—remain ever-present. Ra’s may be rotting away in prison without his Lazarus pits, but Talia is hell-bent on restoring the company to its former glory. Given that Lois still "owes" Talia for the death of her father, General Lane, I suspect we’ll see her physically reappear in the title sooner rather than later.

I legitimately feel ill thinking about what could happen to Lex’s family at the hands of the insane Brainiac.

The encounter between Lex Luthor and Brainiac was eye-opening for a few reasons. While we caught a glimpse of him in Absolute Evil, it’s here that we discover this version of Lex is, by all accounts, just a normal dude—a humble gas station owner living the American Dream with a traditional family of four.

And yet, referencing Absolute Evil once more, we know that Brainiac believes Lex is the perfect counterbalance to the Justice League’s Joker. I’m legitimately frightened for Lex’s family here; Brainiac seems all too eager to "motivate" him into becoming the version of Luthor that fits his twisted vision. It’s easy to see how, should Brainiac get his way in bloody fashion, this Lex could grow to hate Superman—blaming his family's fate on the mere existence of the Man of Steel.

Of course, we can’t get too ahead of ourselves, but the speculation as to how this world unfolds monthly is exactly why this title—and the other Absolute books—continue to dominate the sales charts.

Once again, Juan Ferreyra complements Jason Aaron’s prose and narrative direction with evocative art. The Carter Hall flashbacks are purposefully muted, capturing the weight of the decades and the origin of a man who started as a hero but became something else entirely. Ferreyra also gives Superman a wide range of emotions; even after the relentless losses Kal has experienced since issue #1, he hasn't lost his sense of humor—cheekily dragging Hawkman toward Metropolis.

The highlight of the issue is the battle between the two flying powerhouses. The pacing and sheer violence almost reach the levels of brutality we saw in Superman’s fight against Ra’s al Ghul, showcasing the ruthless, methodical efficiency of a seasoned Hawkman. Of course, Superman’s raw power is perfectly captured in the stellar scene where he puts Hall down with a single blow. The buildings and subway are cleverly rendered in an "X-ray" style, allowing us to see every minute detail of the thunderous crash. It’s a level of visual storytelling we don’t often see when characters are simply punched through walls.

The redesign of Parasite is also worth highlighting; while it looks wildly different from the "hapless schmuck" version we're used to, it remains identifiable through its color scheme and the white markings around its four-sided jaw. The more you look at the creature, the more impressed—and freaked out—you become. It feels less like a traditional supervillain and more like something at home within the pages of a manga like Berserk. It’s a bold choice that absolutely works.

Final Thoughts and Review

It’s telling that in this imprint, that despite Superman’s vast power, he is the perennial underdog…

To absolutely no one’s surprise, Absolute Superman #16 sustains and builds upon its own momentum while seamlessly calling back to the Absolute Evil one-shot. The result is a book that is equal parts traditional superhero fare and visceral sci-fi horror—typified by both Parasite’s terrifying debut and Brainiac literally whipping out chainsaws in the middle of a birthday party in Lex Luthor’s backyard. It is a bizarre sentence to write, but an even more incredible sequence to read.

Final Review: 9.5/10

….and I love every #$%@-ing second of it.

Absolute Superman #16 is just a hair shy of being a literal perfect issue. While it requires a bit of "homework" in the form of the Absolute Evil one-shot to truly grasp the motivations of Hawkman and Brainiac, the payoff is immense. Even with that minor hurdle, the book delivers jaw-dropping action and masterfully expands the Absolute Universe by reimagining familiar pillars of the Superman mythos in fresh, unique ways.

Jason Aaron has once again delivered a powerhouse entry in the reimagining of comics' most enduring superhero, proving exactly why the Absolute imprint is dominating the industry right now.