Lobo is generating buzz in the comic book world with the announcement that Jason Momoa will take on the role in the upcoming DC cinematic universe. However, many casual DC Comics enthusiasts may not fully grasp who the last Czarnian is. For those eager to delve into Lobo’s thrilling adventures before his appearance in Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, this article highlights some of his most iconic comic storylines.
First introduced in Omega Men #3 back in 1983, Lobo was conceived by creators Roger Slifer and Keith Giffen as a satirical take on more serious heroes such as Wolverine and the Punisher. Surprisingly, this grim yet humorous character quickly gained a cult following, turning into one of DC’s standout figures throughout the 1990s. With his outrageous humor and extreme violent antics, Lobo has influenced characters like Deadpool and Harley Quinn. Below is a list of seven must-read stories that serve as an excellent gateway for those discovering Lobo for the first time.
7 Lobo: The Last Czarnian #1-4
By Keith Giffen, Alan Grant, and Simon Bisley
Lobo’s inaugural miniseries, The Last Czarnian, remains a timeless classic, encapsulating the essence of the character. Hired by Vril Dox for a daring prison break, Lobo discovers that the target is none other than his childhood teacher, Miss Tribb. The story unfolds into a chaotic journey filled with action and humor, brilliantly illustrating what makes Lobo such a compelling figure in the DC Universe.
This series showcases the talents of co-creator Keith Giffen, whose sharp wit complements Alan Grant’s storytelling, resulting in a delightful mix that feels lively and mischievous. Additionally, artist Simon Bisley’s reimagining of Lobo has become the archetype for the character with his imposing physique, iconic skull enhancements, and distinctive weaponry.
6 Lobo’s Paramilitary Christmas Special #1
By Keith Giffen, Alan Grant, and Simon Bisley
The creative trio of Giffen, Grant, and Bisley reunites for a hilariously outrageous one-shot, Lobo’s Paramilitary Christmas Special. The story takes a comedic turn as Lobo is commissioned by the Easter Bunny to eliminate Santa Claus, convinced that Christmas is overshadowing other celebrations. The plot takes Lobo to the North Pole, where he encounters fierce resistance that transforms the jolly Santa into a formidable warrior.
Not only does this comic epitomize the satirical nature of Lobo narratives, but it also set the standard for future stories filled with irreverence and absurdity. With its ludicrous premise and over-the-top execution, this Christmas special is essential reading, embracing the character’s uniqueness and humor.
5 Lobo: Infanticide #1-4
By Keith Giffen, Alan Grant, Lovern Kindzierski, and Todd Klein
In Lobo: Infanticide, Giffen’s artwork complements the plot where Lobo’s numerous offspring unite to seek revenge on their absent father. This four-part series is as chaotic as it sounds, showcasing Lobo’s incapacity to manage his galactic love life. Through a story filled with wild situations, Lobo finds himself teaming up with his children against an alien threat, illustrating both the craziness and dark humor embedded in the character’s lore.
4 Hitman / Lobo: That Stupid Bastich #1
By Garth Ennis, Doug Mahnke, Carla Feeny, Jamison, and Ken Lopez
Garth Ennis showcased Lobo perfectly in this crossover, Hitman / Lobo: That Stupid Bastich, wherein humor intertwines with intense action. The collaboration involves Hitman’s Tommy Monaghan and features hilarious scenarios as they battle it out in Gotham’s gritty Cauldron district. The blend of outrageous humor and violence is a hallmark of both characters, and Doug Mahnke’s vibrant illustrations heighten the overall experience.
3 Batman / Lobo #1
By Alan Grant, Simon Bisley, Nathan Eyring, and Bill Oakley
This one-shot Elseworlds story features Lobo taking on the role of a bounty hunter, sent after Batman following a million-dollar bounty placed by the Joker. As Lobo dons a makeshift Batsuit and wreaks havoc in Gotham City, the absurdity escalates—leading to chaotic confrontations with Batman’s infamous rogues. The outrageous premise, combined with Bisley’s unique art style, creates a memorable tale of mayhem that comic fans won’t want to miss.
2 52, a Weekly Series
By Geoff Johns, Grant Morrison, Greg Rucka, Mark Waid, Keith Giffen, and others
After a period of sporadic appearances, Lobo made a notable comeback in the weekly series 52. Debuting during the fall of 2006, his narrative arc revealed that Lobo had embraced pacifism, a stark contrast to his previous character traits. This transformation provided a refreshing take on Lobo, as he teams up with heroes like Animal Man and Starfire, adding depth to his persona while foreshadowing a return to his violent roots.
1 Superman vs. Lobo #1-3
By Tim Seeley, Sarah Beattie, Mirka Andolfo, Arif Prianto, and Fabio Amelia
Famed for their contrasting dynamics, the pairing of Superman and Lobo delivers much intrigue in Superman vs. Lobo. This engaging Black Label miniseries sees the duo confronting multifaceted challenges while poking fun at contemporary issues such as “cancel culture.”Tim Seeley and Sarah Beattie’s clever writing, combined with Mirka Andolfo’s eye-catching artwork, create an engaging experience—merging humor and profound moments while highlighting both characters’ complexities.
For all those eager to dive deep into the world of Lobo before he makes his cinematic debut, these titles are not just must-reads but spectacular introductions to his chaotic yet entertaining universe.
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