Since he first appeared in 1939, it’s been a given that Batman is the world’s greatest detective. At least within the confines of the DC Universe. But is he really? Or are those accolades actually unearned?
In today’s Nerdist Now, Dan Casey explores whether or not other characters in the the world of DC comics actually more deserving of the “world’s greatest detective” title. In fact, one of those character’s initials are actually “D.C.”
So, if not the Dark Knight, then who is DC’s top sleuth? A good argument can be made for several characters, many of whom have been around for years, proving their crime solving skills in story after story. Batman’s JLA buddy the Flash, a.k.a. Barry Allen, is an actual C.S.I. and several of his adventures have involved him solving cold cases no one else could crack.
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There’s also Tim Drake, the third Robin. He deduced Batman’s and Robin’s secret identities while still in elementary school! At the very least, he’s the only Bat-sidekick who can give Bruce Wayne a run for his money in this department. He may have already surpassed his mentor.
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And then, there’s Detective Chimp. You read that correctly, DC has a detective who’s a sentient simian. Also known as Bobo T. Chimpanzee, this intelligent monkey has been referred to as the world’s greatest detective by none other than John Constantine (who is also in contention.) And there are other contenders for the title. Ralph Dibney, the Elongated Man, whose nose twitches when he “smells a mystery.” Either incarnation of the Question qualifies too. And J’onn J’onzz, the Martian Manhunter, is an esteemed P.I. in his human disguise of John Jones.
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Basically, Batman has many legitimate challengers for the honor of being the DC Universe’s greatest investigative mind. Luckily for him, he can take comfort in being DC’s smartest person. Unless that’s Mister Terrific. Or maybe Lex Luthor. Actually Bats, maybe don’t get too comfortable with any of your titles. Except for “World’s Most Emo Superhero.” We know you’ve got that one cinched.
Featured Image: DC Comics