The formidable DC Comics villain Darkseid is set to make an appearance in a new animated series based on Tom King's 2017 "Mister Miracle" comic book miniseries. The project, previewed at the Annecy Festival, will be an animated prestige drama helmed by King himself as executive producer and showrunner.
"Mister Miracle" will center on Scott Free, the son of Highfather, an adversary of Darkseid. The narrative draws from a period where Darkseid and Highfather exchanged sons to avert war between their respective planets, leading Scott to be raised on the desolate world of Apokolips. His escape from Apokolips alongside Big Barda, one of Darkseid's formidable warriors, forms a key part of the story.
King described the series as a "love letter to Jack Kirby," the creator of many of DC's most iconic cosmic characters. The story is noted for its mature themes, beginning with Scott's attempt at suicide and exploring his struggles with sanity, his relationship with Barda, and the ongoing cosmic war between Apokolips and New Genesis. The series aims to portray the aftermath of trauma and the journey of recovery and resilience.
Initially hesitant to adapt the "Mister Miracle" comic, King was persuaded by DC Studios heads James Gunn and Peter Safran to develop it into an animated drama comparable to shows like "Mad Men" or "The Sopranos." King emphasized the personal significance of the comic to many fans and the responsibility he feels in adapting it.
The series is currently in production by Warner Bros. Animation and Titmouse Paris. While Darkseid's casting has been confirmed, the actors involved have not yet been revealed. The project is expected to delve into Scott's complex relationships with Darkseid, Highfather, and Orion, Darkseid's son who was raised by Highfather.