Are There Any DC Comics Story Lines Where Batman and Wonder Woman Are an Item?

When delving into the vast universe of DC Comics, fans often wonder if iconic characters Batman and Wonder Woman could ever have a romantic relationship. While not a staple of the Comics or mainstream series, there have indeed been instances where this concept was explored, particularly within the Justice League Animated Series.

Justice League Animated Series and Justice League Unlimited

The most notable exploration of a relationship between Batman and Wonder Woman can be found in the Justice League and Justice League Unlimited animated series. These series are known for their creative takes on classic characters and storylines, often bringing them into new and unexpected situations.

In these series, the idea of a romantic relationship between Batman and Wonder Woman is explored through various character arcs and storylines. While such relationships do not form the core plot of the series, they add depth and interest to the existing narrative, enhancing the characters' development and providing a different perspective on their interactions and conflicts.

Evidence from Earth-12

One of the most intriguing instances is the concept seen on Earth-12, a parallel universe where Earth's rotation is reversed. While in the mainstream DC continuity, Earth-12 is not a widely recognized universe, this concept has been explored in some of DC's limited series and miniseries. On Earth-12, Bruce Wayne and Diana Prince (Wonder Woman) are a couple. The consequences of their relationship are severe, with Wonder Woman often referred to as the Merciless due to the influence of Ares, the god of war.

In this alternate reality, Bruce Wayne loses a final battle with the criminal mastermind Cheetah, resulting in his death. This tragedy leads to his transformation into the Merciless, a dark reflection of his personality. Additionally, Wonder Woman is forced to embrace her more violent aspects, becoming a formidable but feared warrior. This version of the Justice League, with Bruce in a wheelchair and Wonder Woman as a violent incarnation of Batwoman, represents the darker but possible outcomes of their relationship.

JLA 90: A Critical Exploration of the Concept

A particularly interesting exploration of a Batman/Wonder Woman romance is found in issue 90 of the Justice League (vol. 4) comic series, which was released around the time of the Justice League Universe (JLU). In this storyline, Wonder Woman contemplates a shared kiss between her and Batman, leading her to use a machine that can show possible futures. This device reveals several different scenarios:

A future where Wonder Woman is much older and Bruce Wayne is in a wheelchair due to his advanced age. A violent alternate reality where Wonder Woman is a more brutal version of Batwoman, embodying the darker aspects of Batman's legacy. A scenario in which Wonder Woman kills the Joker after he kills Batman, symbolizing the destructive nature of their relationship if taken to extremes. The most poignant possibility is one where the gods decree that Wonder Woman cannot bear children with Bruce, highlighting the balance between their personal and professional lives.

After considering these different possibilities, Wonder Woman concludes that the risks and rewards of such a relationship are too great. Therefore, she decides to remain just good friends, recognizing that their deep bond and synergy as partners in the Justice League are more important than a romantic relationship.

Conclusion

While Batman and Wonder Woman do not share a romantic relationship in the main DC Comics continuity, the concept has been explored in various animated series and comic series, particularly the Justice League Animated Series and Justice League Unlimited. These explorations offer fans unique and intriguing looks into the complexities and potential conflicts that such a relationship could bring, adding depth and interest to the well-known characters of the DC Universe.