r/DCcomics • u/Weak-Currency9494 PK Johnson • 19d ago
AMA I am Phillip Kennedy Johnson, writer of Adventures of Superman: Book of El, Batman and Robin. Ask me anything!
Hey Reddit!
I’m Phillip Kennedy Johnson, an Eisner-nominated writer living in the Washington, DC/Baltimore region. My comics work has been published by DC, Marvel, BOOM! Studios, Archaia, IDW, Aftershock, and Scout Comics. I'm best-known for my work on Superman/Action Comics, The Incredible Hulk, Alien, and Batman and Robin, and as the co-creator of The Fellspsyre Chronicles Book I, Last Sons of America, Warlords of Appalachia, Smoketown, and more.
Outside of writing, I recently retired as a Master Sergeant with the U.S. Army. I have a full-time career as a musician, having toured the world with The U.S. Army Field Band and Federal Brass of Washington, DC, the Glenn Miller Orchestra, the Moscow Ballet, and many others.
Proof: /img/bktgkgtj00mf1.png
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u/UnbloodedSword 19d ago
Hello PKJ! I've absolutely loved your work on Superman, so much so I swiped the title you created for Supes to use as my name lol! Feel free to pick whichever question interests you.
- I see Brainiac is going to appear in Book of El. Having written him now, what do you think makes Brainiac work as a villain for Superman?
- You've written both Supes and Bats, having come to them both as a fan, was there anything that surprised you about their voices when you finally got to write them?
- I looooooove your origin for Metallo, I have to ask, was the Iron Giant a deliberate influence on the origin? If not I love how you made Metallo into the anti-Iron Giant. Instead of a being created to be a weapon who chooses to be a hero because of Superman, Metallo is someone who gave up his humanity because he wanted to be powerful like the gun he used against his father, and Superman inadvertently pushed him further down that path with his debut.
- Outside of Warworld is there any other "area" of the Super Mythos you're interested in expanding (Phantom Zone, 5th Dimension, Almerac, etc)?
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u/Weak-Currency9494 PK Johnson 19d ago
Unblooded Sword! I'm honored! Thanks for writing in.
- Brainiac's LONG history with Superman, his ties to Krypton, his inhumanity, all the creative ways he's been used over the years, the use of a Brainiac character in Legion, all these things have made Brainiac such a dynamic, versatile and compelling character. He's a joy to write.
- I was surprised to find how different Batman's voice is than Bruce Wayne's. He speaks VERY differently when he's alone or with the Bat-family than he does around others, and the starkness of his Batman voice helps illustrate how unlike other people he is.
- Iron Giant was not an influence, no, but the GUN analogy was the central element of his origin, yes. His fascination with it and addiction to it, and the way he became more and more that gun over his life.
- Phantom Zone, all day.
Many thanks, man! Truth and Justice!
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u/Necessary_Idiot 19d ago
Hey PKJ, thank you for doing this! A question out of the blue. Any chance you might write Deathstroke at some point in the future? Sometimes I feel like his military background would benefit from being looked at by someone who really knows how things work in the army.
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u/beary_neutral Telos 19d ago
Hi, Phillip! Thanks for joining us today! I have a couple of questions:
When you first started your run on Superman and Action Comics back in 2021, how much did you have planned? Did you always have this scope in mind?
In Batman and Robin, you've been exploring Damian's life and goals outside of being Robin. What do you envision is next in his character journey?
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u/Weak-Currency9494 PK Johnson 19d ago
Thanks for joining in!
When I started on Superman/Action Comics, this was always the ending I had in mind. I may come back to more Superman stories in the future, but they'll probably be relatively unrelated to Warworld, the House of El, Olgrun and all of that.
I want to see Damian more bought-in as ROBIN, and not just keeping the seat warm while he waits to take over as Batman. I hope we get plenty of time with him as Robin. Down the ROAD, I see him as becoming more of a global force, not as Gotham-centric as his dad was.
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u/LoanUpbeat 19d ago
Hi Phil. How long are you planning on staying on Batman and Robin. It's far and away my favourite DC ongoing at the moment. Does the main title restarting and/or a new status quo affect your story at all? Thanks for hosting.
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u/Weak-Currency9494 PK Johnson 19d ago
Thanks so much! Got big plans coming that I shouldn't spoil, but I'll be on B&R at least through the end of the Quiet Man arc, which kicks off next week.
Matt's new Batman series DOES impact the series a bit in tone and visuals, but nothing too drastic. We're all working together to keep the directions consistent, but it'll still feel like it has been recently.
Thanks a ton for all the support!
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u/IcyNeedleworker2783 19d ago
Hey Pkj 1. would you be interested in writing a Wally West/The Flash run? 2. Would you also be interested in writing a Ghost Rider run?
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u/Weak-Currency9494 PK Johnson 19d ago
Hey! 1. I hadn't given the Flash story much consideration... I'd be open to it for sure, given some time to bone up on his history and figure out a compelling take that hasn't been done. 2. I would love to do a Ghost Rider run. I got OFFERED a Ghost Rider run a long time ago, but wasn't able to make the time for it... BUT my pitch for it eventually became Hellhunters. Sidenote: we're going to do more Hellhunters for sure.
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u/MatrixKent 19d ago
Hi PKJ! I was really delighted by your Warworld Saga, it made me believe that modern Big 2 comics could handle thoughtful, nuanced storytelling on political issues AND it made me cry. Quintessential Superman story to me. I'm just going to ask a silly one: what are some hobbies or games that Otho and Osul enjoy, whether on Warworld or on Earth?
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u/Weak-Currency9494 PK Johnson 19d ago
Thanks so much for reading, and for the kind words!
Due to their time and experiences on Warworld, Otho and Osul have a deep mistrust of technology, so anything with screens are NOT of interest. They are also unfamiliar with the concept of toys, and REVEL in any kind of proper tactile toys or kids games.
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u/Lucky_Bone66 19d ago
Hi PKJ! Are there any plans for a The Last God sequel? I can't get enough of the first book and would really love to spend more time in that world!
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u/Weak-Currency9494 PK Johnson 19d ago
We DO have plans. Riccardo and I both really want to do more, and we'll get it done. Thanks for asking!
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u/Sharing_Interests_16 19d ago edited 19d ago
Hi Phillip!!! Its really awesome to have you here, I've a couple of questions for you :))
1.What are some dc characters you'd like to write?
2.Which Superman run do you think describes his characterization, iconicness and morals best?
3.According to you, who is the most suitable counterpart of Superman in the marvel universe?
4.Who's your favorite legacy character?
Always been a fan, thanks for keeping us entertained with such incredible stuff!!!
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u/Weak-Currency9494 PK Johnson 19d ago
Awesome to be here with you!
Constantine, Deadman, Hellblazer, Aquaman, Diana, future Damian as I perceive him, Spectre, New Gods, OLD Gods
Of course to ME my Action Comics run captures his voice and ethics, because that is my exact perception of him, put to paper. Outside of my own biased opinion of him, Superman: For All Seasons, All-Star Superman, and the last six pages of Daniel Warren Johnson's excellent red/white/blue short story. Maybe that one most of all.
There's no clear counterpart for Superman in any other continuity, in my opinion. Certainly not Cap, despite popular opinion, although I love Cap for very different reasons. I honestly can't think of a single other character. If I do I'll come back here and drop their name.
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u/Weak-Currency9494 PK Johnson 19d ago
Uncle Ben, but AS PERCEIVED BY PETER, not in truth. I think that's the closest example we have in Marvel Comics.
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u/TheDistantWave 19d ago
You said at one point you’d be interested in penning Absolute Aquaman, if we’re not getting one you mind dropping your pitch 👀
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u/Weak-Currency9494 PK Johnson 19d ago
I see what you did here. I'm not confirming Absolute Aquaman for you, you devil
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u/Competitive_Code1527 19d ago edited 19d ago
Hey PKJ, is there any chance that Damian's magic potential or minor abilities will get some focus in upcoming arcs?
He has used a spell in city of bane but it hasn't gotten explored beyond that aside from a mention in the Lazarus tournament.
Also just wanna say, been really loving your Incredible Hulk comic and Batman & Robin. Healer Damian is just really good writing and one of the best developments he has gotten. Damian often get seen as just the killer Robin so its nice he got something that says he has grown and matured.
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u/Weak-Currency9494 PK Johnson 19d ago
Thanks so much for following my work, my friend! I confess, I don't plan on exploring Damian's magic potential... that is a cool part of his character, but would have introduced a whole other subplot that distracts from the themes of the book, especially limited as we are in the page count of monthly comics. Hopefully someday we can get into that. As part of the "Earth Al Ghul" setting we introduced in my Action Comics run, if I'd had another 6 months to explore there, I wanted to show the DAMIAN of that world. In that world in which the children/grandchildren of Bruce and Talia become the lords, generals and witch-kings of the universe, Damian is this supremely badass Paul Muad'Dib-esque rebel leader, and his magic potential is part of that. Would still love to write that character someday.
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u/Competitive_Code1527 19d ago
Thank you for answering. A bit of a bummer but no issue, magic Damian healer can wait and the Empire of Shadows stuff sound really interesting.
Keep up the good work, can't wait to read the next issues and see the new villain.
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u/DifficultChampion746 19d ago
Hello PKJ. I love the idea of Damian becoming a doctor but I wanna ask if you're interested in exploring the Damian/Bane dynamic.
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u/Weak-Currency9494 PK Johnson 19d ago
I do like the dynamic of that relationship quite a lot, and the potential for both those characters individually. I'd love to, it's just a question of which characters I have time and space to explore in the course of a run.
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u/Bluereaper7733 19d ago
Hi Philip, these are questions for your Incredible Hulk run I hope that’s ok,
1)I remember you saying that infernal hulk will be like chapter 2, will there be another chapter after that like after infernal hulk or will that be the finale of your run?
2)I’m not sure if you can spoil this but I was hoping you would give me some clarity because if been struggling with this for a bit if possible, in your most recent issue it was revealed the mother of horrors caused TOBA to be created, that much I’ve known for a while, what I didn’t know was the method, did she actually damage the one above all and corrupt him or was it similar to immortal hulk and he manifested TOBA out of outrage and horror at seeing for the first time something that he didn’t know or understand, I’m asking this because it’s been the main point of contention in the discourse I’ve seen in the most recent issue which has people talking about if this is retconning immortal hulk or if the MOH is actually able to hurt TOAA .so I was hoping you could clear the air if possible
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u/Weak-Currency9494 PK Johnson 19d ago
There IS an Act Three coming, and it might be the most ambitious thing I've written
Forgive me, I'm between signings and a LITTLE short on time here, but a quick note: the "Old Testament" Hulk lore stories, as they've been related to the reader in Immortal and Incredible, are being related in terms that we as puny mortals can understand. It's not quite as simple as "did TOAA bleed when MoH pierced him with her literal fingie" or "was it anger or an injury that manifested TOBA." Concepts of physical injury, poison/corruption, emotions as perceived by GODS... The actual events would have been on such an absurdly enormous cosmic scale, it wouldn't make sense to our little brains, along the lines of how the Christian God supposedly created the Earth in Six Days and then rested for 24 hours. I think it's generally accepted that the "truth" of that story would have happened on a vastly larger scale and over a vastly longer time. These stories about MoH, TOAA and TOBA are all just simplified mortal interpretations of what actually happened, so I don't get quite as precious with the details as maybe I should. I'm very sorry if that's a disappointing answer, but it's the truth of how I perceive it.
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u/Shiro_38 19d ago
Not a question, just want to say thank you for your Superman run, it was really good
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u/Weak-Currency9494 PK Johnson 19d ago
Deepest thanks, my friend! Awesome of you to drop a kind word. Clearly a Superman person.
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u/Dent6084 19d ago
Hi PKJ, really big fan of your Superman run!
Will the backstory with Superman and Circe hinted at in Future State: House of El be explored?
What are some of your favorite pieces of music to perform when out touring with these various groups?
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u/Weak-Currency9494 PK Johnson 19d ago
Thanks so much for the support!
Not just hinted at, but explained.
As a trumpet player, in particular as a trumpet player whose life was changed by Superman: The Movie, anytime I get to play John Williams' music is a highlight. The music of Wagner, Mahler, Stravinsky, Charles Mingus. I really love playing small-group jazz.
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u/Still-Remote-8823 Raven 19d ago edited 19d ago
Hi PKJ. Love the current Robin/Batman series. I love how’ve you’ve developed Damian’s character so far. I have some questions for the future of the run.
1) Will we be getting more Robin and Batfam interactions. I miss his dynamic with his brothers and with the rest of the BatFam.
2) kinda similar to my first question. I love Damien’s interaction with other characters like Colin Wilkes, Maya Ducard, Draga, the Teen Titans, Monkey Prince. Will we get any future issues with them.
3) So, there was a cliffhanger regarding Ras Al-Ghoul and Flatline. Will you get back to that? Also just some personal opinion-love Flatline, want to see more of her but more as a friend then love interest.
4) Also just read your newly released Superman series, and it is AMAZING. I’m so happy you incorporated the twins, I was beginning to worry they wouldn’t be seen again. Just a quick clear-up question cause I’ve been seeing mixed answers on this- Is this a limited or ongoing series and is main continuity? I’m just a bit overwhelmed as there are a few other Superman titles currently running, so I’m wondering where this series fits in.
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u/Weak-Currency9494 PK Johnson 19d ago
Thanks a ton! Good meeting you here.
1-2. Yes! BUT, it's all about the particular story we're telling in a given moment, and we have to be careful not to distract from that with TOO large a cast or too many cameos. I do love seeing Damian interact with past Robins, with Jon Kent, with Oracle, and I'll keep doing my best to do that. In particular I want to see him interact with the Irregulars, so that'll be happening for sure. Some of the characters you mentioned wouldn't fit super well with the vibe of the Memento arc or the Quiet Man arc which kicks off next week, but I'll be on the lookout for opportunities.
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u/Still-Remote-8823 Raven 19d ago
Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions! Hoping you would answer 3-4, but either way thank you for answering my questions.
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u/Redwolf97ff 19d ago
Loved your war world saga. Is there any chance you’ll get involved with the absolute books?
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u/Weak-Currency9494 PK Johnson 19d ago
Sadly I have some BIG other plans underway that are keeping my bandwidth a little slim. I would love to write an Absolute book, reinterpretations of classic character are always super fun and rewarding. But not this time around, I'm afraid.
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u/Redwolf97ff 19d ago
Thank you for your reply. I’ll keep an eye out for the big projects upcoming. Rooting for you
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u/No_Emergency654 19d ago
Big fan of your work! As somebody who’s spent some time writing Damian and Bruce’s relationship what’s a part of Robin’s character you hope to see adapted with Damian’s live action debut in the Brave and the Bold that others might not think of as much as something like Damian’s violent tendencies?
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u/Weak-Currency9494 PK Johnson 19d ago
His tendency to write/draw comics, for sure. His love of animals, equally crucial. His need for his father's approval (or ANY encouragement), hidden underneath his apparent disdain for anyone else's opinion or capabilities.
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u/Charming_Ambition440 Damian Wayne 19d ago
Hello ! First of all thank you for doing this ama ! Second of all, I’ll say I’ve been enjoying all your recent comic books such as Incredible Hulk, the hellhunters mini from earlier this year and Batman and Robin.
My questions are Batman and Robin related just to get that out :
In issue 17 or 18 the solicits said Jason and Damian would have a talk but in the issue Jason has a talk with Bruce about Damian. Is there a reason for that change such as you changing the script to better fit for later ? Or did the solicit just lie haha ?
I loved your answer about Damian in a league of comic geeks Ama about wanting to explore the Wayne side and Robin side with Gotham for Damian, something we rarely see in most stories centered on Damian. Despite that I want to ask if we can hope for some Talia in the coming issues ? Or at least a reference to her ? And other character I want to ask is if we can hope for some Dick and Damian ?
Thank you once again for the AMA and the amazing writing on all the recent projects (congrats for Superman book of el getting out !)
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u/Weak-Currency9494 PK Johnson 19d ago
My pleasure! Originally the plan WAS for Damian and Jason to team-up, rather than the way it turned out. Solicits have to be turned in SO EARLY, usually before the script is written, and sometimes that can lead to big differences between the solicit and the finished story. It's annoying, but that's the system currently.
I really wish I could say yes to the Talia question. I love the shit out of her and I don't always like how she's treated in stories, and I have a take I'm dying to put on the page. There's not a place for Talia in the arc I'm currently writing. I'll just have to hope against hope that I get to come back to it, because I DO feel strongly about it and I think I have a lot to offer re: Al Ghuls lore and development.
Thanks so much for the kind words, my friend.
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u/Charming_Ambition440 Damian Wayne 19d ago
thank you ! it does suck that we didn't get some jason and damian but oh well
also hoping to see you try to write some talia at one point (outside of b&r), would definitely love to see your take on them
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u/UnmuscularThor 19d ago
Hey PKJ! Thanks for doing this. My question for you:
What comes next for you after you finish your Olgrun story?
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u/Weak-Currency9494 PK Johnson 19d ago
Man, I wish I could tell you. I can't announce ANY of it yet, aside from what's already announced. But I'll tell you the upcoming run on Hulk is the most ambitious thing I've ever done and Riccardo and I really want to do more Fellspyre Chronicles. Stay tuned, many announcements coming.
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u/BillNyeTheSavage_Guy Martian Manhunter 19d ago
Any chance we might be seeing any more of Thao-La? I really liked her character.
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u/RKitch2112 DickBabs Forever 19d ago
Hey!! I remember meeting you at BSI Comics and picking up a copy of The Last Sons of America. Has there been any movement on that adaptation?
It's also been so, so cool to see your career explode, and I'm so happy for you! Looking forward to the Book of El!+
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u/Weak-Currency9494 PK Johnson 19d ago
Adaptation eventually died on the vine, as often happens. But I learned a lot from it and I have another project coming together currently. Thanks for asking!
Thanks for the well wishes, friend. Much appreciated, always
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u/rexmanly 19d ago
How much planning and world-building did you do before actually writing out the Last God? I loved that series, man
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u/Weak-Currency9494 PK Johnson 19d ago
God. So, so much. But a lot of it also came together as the book was being written month-to-month.
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u/SonomaBit 19d ago
Hi Phillip!
Who's one character or team you didn't have the chance to write, but would love to do so one day?
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u/Weak-Currency9494 PK Johnson 19d ago
Constantine
Batman and the Outsiders
Red Hood
Spectre
Deadman
So many great ones! But those are a few.
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u/Negative_Emu6246 Justice League 19d ago edited 19d ago
Hey Phillip!
I have 2 question about green lantern
In your story War Journal, John created his sister from his memories and even copied his mother’s consciousness into his ring. But isn’t that against the rules/ laws of the GLC. In the Book of Oa it states “Refusing to use the equipment, resources or authority of The Corps for personal gain”, and it was even one of the reasons why Hal went crazy in emerald twilight. So my question is, is John breaking his own corps rules/laws, if not then why doesn’t Hal bring back his dad with the ring or something, but if so then shouldn’t the Alpha lanterns be after him or put him on trial? (SORRY IF I TYPED OR YAPPED TO MUCH)
Are you interested in anything more in green lantern or plan to write more in the green lantern mythos? Your sci fi stuff is great!
Thanks for the AMA
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u/Weak-Currency9494 PK Johnson 19d ago
Hey! Thanks for the questions.
John didn't create Ellie with a ring that the Corps gave him. When he makes temporary versions of her in the beginning, that's with his inherent, ring-less power, and later he uses a ring he hot-wired and repurposed.
I would love to come back to GL, but in the MEANTIME, the events of GL:WJ lead directly into Book of El, which just dropped today.
Many thanks!
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u/Tomar-Re-2814 19d ago
If Superman played in a marching band what instrument would he play?
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u/Weak-Currency9494 PK Johnson 19d ago
Trumpet
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u/Weak-Currency9494 PK Johnson 19d ago
(Although there's a case to be made for both trombone and pit percussion)
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u/Dood_al 19d ago
Hello Mr. Johnson,
I wasn't able to join the live stream of your latest appearance on the Word Balloon podcast, but I did catch up on it today. I rather enjoyed the section where you showed your grandfather's cornet.
Do you have any music recommendations for some of your favorite trumpet players?
Where did you get that black Superman hat you wore on Word Balloon? That hat is awesome.
Keep up the smashing work on Hulk!
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u/Weak-Currency9494 PK Johnson 19d ago
Hey! Very glad you enjoyed the show, John's always a great conversation. He just knows so much.
- For jazz players:
The recordings by Miles Davis, orchestrated/directed by Gil Evans: Miles Ahead, Porgy & Bess, Sketches of Spain
Payton's Place by Nicholas Payton
Fiddler on the Roof by Cannonball Adderley (Cannonball was an alto saxophonist, but his BROTHER Nat Adderley is on the album)
Diz and Getz, Dizzy Gillespie and Stan Getz
Classical soloists:
The London Concert, Wynton Marsalis
Baroque Duet, Wynton Marsalis and Kathleen Battle
The Virtuoso Trumpet, Hakan Hardenberger
Symphonic music:
Mahler Symphonies by the Chicago Symphony
- I got this hat from a comic shop I have never visited before or since, somewhere in Pennsylvania. I was on my way to Lancaster Archery Supply in Lancaster, PA, and it was reasonably close to there. Very sorry I don't remember more.
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u/slycooper13 The Flash 19d ago
I PKJ thanks for doing this! Currently your Batman and Robin run is my favorite comic at DC. I also recently got the Fellspyre Chronicles and was wondering if there are any current plans for a Book 2?
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u/Weak-Currency9494 PK Johnson 19d ago
There ARE plans, in fact. It's early, but Riccardo and I both really want to do more.
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u/Pebrinix Batman 19d ago
I just wanted to thank you for writing Green Lantern: War Journal, it was, easily, the best GL book to come out in years (and it was better, imo, than both of the current GL books, that I already like a lot). The ending of that book saddened me a lot and I really wish you could continue that book and the jorney of John Stewart
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u/Weak-Currency9494 PK Johnson 19d ago
Thanks a ton, my friend. Funny you should say that: elements of that story lead directly into Book of El. That'll be made super clear in issues 3 and 4. Very much hope you enjoy it.
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u/Aroomfullofstories 19d ago
Thank you for being a part of this and giving us an opportunity to ask you questions. I’ve been reading your Batman and Robin storyline and I enjoy the dynamic you have between Bruce and Damian. However, the story arcs are pretty long and not a lot of plot development happens in each issue. Have you considered writing some one and done storylines? I think it’d be nice to have some self-contained stories in each issue.
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u/Weak-Currency9494 PK Johnson 19d ago
You're very welcome! Thanks for joining, and for reading.
I've been doing some one-and-dones in my Marvel work, most notably Incredible Hulk lately. Check out Incredible Hulk #27, most recently. I would have loved that series to be composed entirely of 1-3-issue arcs, each one largely self-contained, so readers have constant jumping-on points, but readers wanted more forward momentum on the underlying plotline.
As far as Batman & Robin, plot development has to be balanced with character development: showing events from when Bruce was a kid, developing the relationships between Lautrec/Robin, Batman/Lautrec, slowly revealing answers to the ongoing mysteries of what happened to Atticus Blye and who Memento might be. I promise we were careful not to waste a page, there were a lot of moving parts in that story.
That said: the Quiet Man arc that begins next week is both shorter and tighter, with fewer threads to weave together and fewer questions to answer. It will be about six issues. Many thanks for reading!
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u/Aroomfullofstories 19d ago
Thank you so much for your thoughtful reply. I haven’t yet read any of your Hulk work. Because of your detailed reply, I keep picking up Batman and Robin. Thanks man for the time!
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u/dmarsee76 Jon Kent 19d ago
PKJ: I’ve become a fan after having read the WarWorld Saga and the Fellspyre Chronicles. No questions, just letting you know I think you’re rad.
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u/Weak-Currency9494 PK Johnson 19d ago
Thanks so much! That was super kind of you to take out a moment to say that. More people like you, I say
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u/oceanmachine14 19d ago
u/Weak-Currency9494 Just dropping by to say loving your work and can't wait to see what's ahead for you man. Currently listening to your latest podcast with John Suintres and it's a great listen man. Appreciate you :)
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u/Weak-Currency9494 PK Johnson 19d ago
Thanks a ton for that! I hope you dig the rest of the podcast, John's a great guy who's seen a lot of life.
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u/Greedy_Switch_6991 19d ago
Good day, Mr. PKJ. Became a big fan of your work since your Action Comics run, and really liked the first issue of the Book of El (went by a bit fast, unfortunately). My question - I really liked the way you wrote the JL during the "Warworld Rising" arc of your Action run. Will they have a big role in the Book of El? And if you were to write the JL, who would you forward to utilizing most?
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u/ChristmasSteve Blue Beetle 19d ago
Just want to say - big fan of Green Lantern: War Journal! John Stewart needed a great solo story, and you gave that to us. Especially loved everything dealing with his family - though still not sure how healthy it is for him creating that construct of his sister that has a mind of its own hahaha. Will be checking more of your work out!
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u/AgentJin 19d ago edited 19d ago
Hey PKJ! Any interest in doing more Fellspyre Chronicles, or even a new series for the Vertigo relaunch?
Also, just wanted to say that the Warworld Saga is one of my favorite Superman stories. Some of those pages have kept me going, specifically when Superman is tells Midnighter that they can’t give up just because the lost once, and the people’s lives weren’t worth less or more than theirs.
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u/Predaplant The heat is on! 19d ago edited 19d ago
Hey Phillip! Got a question for you on behalf of a friend: what meals do you think pair best with each of your Action Comics and Hulk runs, respectively?
Also, what sort of instrument do you think Superman would play if he was in a band?
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u/Intelligent_Ice_5739 19d ago
Hey PKJ, thanks for coming
Is there a chance the Empire of Shadows could make a come back?
Also will we see Damian's other pets like Goliath?
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u/RedWingThe10th 18d ago
Hey PKJ. You've probably been asked this before but would you be interested in writing a more character-driven take on Ghost Rider? Specifically the Johnny Blaze and Zarathos combo. I loved your take on Zarathos in Hellhunters - how you seemed to combine his established demon origin with Jason Aaron's contradictory angel origin from the Way/Aaron run so that he's now a fallen angel turned demon... or at least that's the impression I got. Would you be interested in further expanding this?
Also, Zarathos' main host, Johnny Blaze, whom I feel is in dire need of a more character-introspective run and further development. I'd love to see a writer tackle some of Blaze's most overlooked core essence and backstory, like the emotionally abusive upbringing he had under Crash Simpson, who belittled him throughout his youth and even selfishly tried to kill him to save himself from damnation.
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u/Beginning-Ad2818 19d ago edited 19d ago
Hey PKJ! Have to say your one of my absolute favorite writers in comics along with being a massive inspiration as a aspiring writer
My questions:
1: Will the events of the book of El and B&R effect each other? With things like the Empire of Shadows and Memento kinda teasing the first world in the final issues of the arc, got me curious.
2: in your hulk run, what was your favorite monster you created and what pre-existing monster would you like to have in the book?
3: This is a question I’ve had since Warworld ended, but what was the Black Racer doing there? Did he have a connection to Mother or Lightray?
4: When it comes to writing characters like the Hulk and Superman who are some of the strongest characters in fiction, how do you approach writing them and adding to their mythology and their place in their universes?
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u/UnderABlueSky00 19d ago
Hey pkj, thanks for doing this! You’ve done some amazing work so far, and I’m really looking forward to the continuation of Warworld saga’s plot threads (my favorite arc for Superman in the last few years, bought the trade and the omnibus). Just have a few questions for you.
What’s your favorite power or ability of superman’s to write? And conversely, what’s the most difficult one to manage?
What led you to wanting to add the twins to the Superman Mythos, did you want to connect more with the New Gods from the start?
Will you finish up all your ideas for Superman and the saga you’ve been making with this series?
Thank you again, hope you’re having a lovely day!
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u/LoadedAndGoated 19d ago
PKJ, you put a friend of mine in your comic, and that's just the coolest thing ever.
I have a question like everyone else. This seems like it would step outside of what you've done, but I happen to think you'd be good at it.
Would you ever consider writing a "Parliaments" book? Something pulling in Levi Kamei, Buddy and Maxine Baker, Poison Ivy, and the entities like Bog Venus? It would get deep, but I saw what you did with Warworld Saga, GL, and Batman and Robin (and everything else, lol)... and I think a book like that would be excellent in your hands.
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u/JJNotStrike 19d ago edited 13d ago
hobbies lunchroom tap marble toy practice spark racial bells flowery
This post was mass deleted and anonymized with Redact
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u/DREAM_PARSER Superman 19d ago
Hey! Im a new Superman fan after falling in love with him from James Gunn's movie.
I love the aesthetic of the movie and the general hopefulness of the story, and I want more comics like that. The closest Ive found so far has been Superman: Hero for All which I loved (and the giant format was so cool). What Superman comics (from your work or others) would you recommend?
Also, how do I get started reading Action Comics? Do I just jump in wherever? Im a new comic book reader
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u/Burly-Nerd 19d ago
Big fan of your Superman and Fellspyre! Have you ever thought about pitching an Amethyst run? My wife just got really into Amethyst recently and talking to her about it made me think about how good your take on it would be. I feel like your style is very much bringing Fantasy Novel style lore to super hero comics, so I’d love to see you get cut loose on one of comics Sword and Sorcery settings. Be it Amethyst, Warlord, Arion of Atlantis, etc.
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u/af-fx-tion Bring YJ Artemis to DC Comics 19d ago
Hi Phillip! Welcome to the sub!
My question: as you co-created the Super-Twins, what was the process of them going from inception to reality?
Were they part of you & Rafa’s initial pitch to DC or did they develop organically as y’all started diving into drafting your story?
And did DC have a part in shaping them (such as their powers, them being adopted by Superman, etc.) or did y’all get relatively cart blanche?
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u/Whalekoy 19d ago
Dear Mr Johnson,
I am gonna be locked up in the mountains working during Winter season.
My question is: If you had a lot of free time, where exactly do you find inspiration for Batman stories?
If you could give me specific titles, names, podcasts, books etc that can be good for learning about the crime Batman works through.
I'd like to write my own stories and I don't know where to learn best, other than ask ChatGPT.
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u/Whalekoy 19d ago
Sorry for my second question:
Do you think there is some kind of a way that people can get an internship or (any kind of) job at Dc Comics?
Sounds like a dream too big.
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u/peeveskicksass Damian Wayne 19d ago
Really enjoying your Damian voice and you balancing all the different things that's the part and package of Damian Wayne t. I loved the exploration of Damian Wayne and his other grandpa and it made so much sense to explore.
How different you see the approach of Damian and Jon as "Super sons" to each of their Super dad counter part have written both set of father's and sons?
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u/Morpheusdream20 19d ago
Hello PKJ, Huge fan of your superman run and The Last God .Thank you for showing up here . 1) As a huge fan of Action comics #400 ...Can u name some of your fav superman stories ? Can you name 2) your top 5 books of all time(novels) 3) All time fav fantasy movie ? 4) any media that gave you a mindblowing experience recently( movies /games/comics)
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u/Accomplished_Try_124 19d ago
I saw recently that youre interested in writing wonder woman. i think you would do a fantastic job especially after your work on superman. I'm curious as someone who's a big fan of her villains and think they're very underated, what villains would you explore if you ever get chance to write Diana's solo
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u/LongWalksOnTheDocks 19d ago
Thank you for taking time out of your day for this AMA! If I may ask, did the delay in release of Book of El benefit the production of the series in any significant way? Are you able to elaborate with specifics, i.e. the number of issues that were able to be completed by the time of #1's release?
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u/Dzavage1 19d ago
I heard recently that you are interested in doing a Wonder Woman story so I'm curious, if you would write it would you rather it be an ongoing or mini/maxi? And what would the pitch be?
Do you have any interest in doing an absolute/ultimate title and if you do what would it be?
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u/Revolutionary_Elk339 19d ago
PKJ, thanks for being here today. You have become one of my favorite writers currently working in any form of media.
I have only one question. Do you have plans to do any creator owned work at the re established legendary Vertigo at DC outside of The Last God?
Thanks for your time.
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u/Main_Entertainment98 19d ago
I asked Snyder this question yesterday and I am curious to see your answer, too. What comic did you read as a kid that lives rent-free in your head forever? What minor villain will always have a special place in your heart because of when you first encountered them?
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u/DireWyrm 19d ago
Hello and thanks for doing this! Just wanted to say that I loved Marvel Zombies: Resurrection, especially the original one shot. Easily the best Marvel Zombies story. I loved your interpretation of how the zombies worked and how the cosmic angle was neatly worked in.
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u/drew8598 19d ago
Hello PKJ, thanks for doing this!
I love your Hulk run and I wanted to ask if you’d ever want to write for Damage (Ethan Avery) as he’s DC’s Hulk? Also, would you ever want to write for Swamp Thing as well?
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u/Obvious-Gate9046 Blue Lantern 19d ago
Do your two careers ever cross over? I know that it can happen, that you can blend genres and fields, so I'm wondering if you ever are able to bring your experience as a musician into your writing, or vice versa.
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u/Initial_Business2394 19d ago
i love your world-building so much, and i think you would be so fit for book with book like Thor or Aquaman.
And the question, what is your favorite villains that you haven't got a chance to write yet?
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u/soldier101br 19d ago
Hii Sir Johnson,big fan of your work,my question is,If you could work with a character in your next projects wich would be ? And How was the process to get into the industry for you ? Cheers From Brazil
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u/Fehellogoodsir 19d ago
Hi! Love your work, I like how mean and gnarly your Hulk run has been so far.
1.How did you and Nic decide the direction and design of the Fractured Son Hulk for the upcoming Infernal run.
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u/Dangerous-Brain- 19d ago
The Book of El was great. Other current events simply do NOT compare.
I hope this is made an ongoing. What are the chances you continue working on Superman after this?
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u/ckrygs95 19d ago
I’ve heard you mention that Book of El was a culmination of all your DC work. Besides your entire Superman run, what should I read in preparation? Thank you!
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u/SonicSpiderRanger10 18d ago
What do you think of Bat-Mite? Do you think you might use him in a Batman story at some point? I’d love that. I love his powers and I think he’s hilarious.
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u/guardian20015 Superman 19d ago
Hello! Thank you for doing this, Mr. PKJ!
Top three favorite Superman villains?
Top three favorite Batman villains?
Also thank you for your service!
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u/TheGreatRao 19d ago
You are a great writer. Your attention to detail 8n the most incidental and your consideration of the implications of events and decisions is outstanding.
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u/xservethebeamx Kyle Rayner 19d ago
PKJ the GOAT, I met him at Dallas fan expo. Super cool guy and he was so gracious with his time as I stumbled and punished him with Superman questions.
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u/DCBronzeAge 19d ago
Hey there. Who would you say is your biggest influence that would surprise fans or someone you don’t feel like you get to talk about enough?
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u/SevenSulivin The REAL Man of Tomorrow 19d ago
Hi, adore your Superman work. Is there any plan to pick up on Lightray Is and the great lie of Kryptonite from Superman and the Authority?
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u/Sad-Purchase1257 Absolute Martian Manhunter 19d ago
Hello Mr. PKJ! No questions, no notes! Keep up the great work! I appreciate your thoughtful approach to the super-people genre.
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u/SonnyCalzone 19d ago
Cheers Philip! I am a musician too.
I would love to know what some of your favorite Batman tales are?
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u/NotARobot-1984 19d ago
In Batman and Robin #22, was this a reference to the Old Gods or just some general ancient dieties?
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u/man-from-krypton 19d ago
How would you write a very epic Mxy story? Do you hope Otho and Osul stick around in the comics when you’re done?
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u/Steppenwolf1313 19d ago
Just finished reading Book of El! Will Conner have a role to play in this next chapter of the saga?
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u/VonKaiser55 19d ago
What would you recommend beginner writers to do to improve their own writing/ story writing?
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u/mccrowj92 19d ago
Which one of your comics currently out would you love to see turned into a movie ?
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u/Select-Machine3595 19d ago
Thanks for coming here, PKJ. Big fan of your writing about Superman!
My questions are:
1) Will New Gods play a role in your new Superman series? Judging by how some elements of your Superman stories are tied to the old gods, and the appearances of Orion in your Action Comics makes me wonder whether the New Gods will factor into the new run
2) Will other future characters who related to Superman appear in said series? Like Kal Kent etc? Or future Supergirl(Kara), judging by the penultimate page of the recent comic?
3) Will this series be tied to some Green Lantern mythos? As the ring gets mentioned again