WARNING: Contains Potential SPOILERS for Batman / Santa Claus: Silent Knight Returns #5!
October marked significant shifts with the launch of DC’s ALL IN initiative, including the revival of the Justice League with a roster that now features EVERY hero on Earth instead of a select few. Yet, one DC hero appeared to have missed his initial invite. Better late than never, though—Santa Claus has officially joined the Justice League Unlimited.
Jeff Parker, Lukas Ketner, Marcelo Maiolo, and Pat Brosseau bring Batman / Santa Claus: Silent Knight Returns to a close with the fifth and final issue. In this action-packed conclusion, the heroes of the DC Universe once again save the day with the help of Ol’ Saint Nick.
After defeating the Silent Knight, Mrs. Claus—proven to be a hero and warrior in her own right—invites the victorious group to her and Santa’s home for a celebratory feast. As the heroes wine, dine, and receive gifts from Santa, they also get a special tour of his workshop. The festivities culminate in a pivotal moment when Superman and Batman approach Santa Claus and formally offer him a place among the Justice League.
Batman & Superman Officially Invite Santa Claus to Join the Justice League Unlimited
Cover C 1:25 Card Stock Variant by Michele Bandini for Batman / Santa Claus: Silent Knight Returns #5 (2024)
After Clark and Bruce receive their presents from Santa, Superman reveals they have something for him as well, with Batman extending a customized Justice League membership to the jolly saint. Upon Santa questioning if they are truly inviting him to their “esteemed order,” Batman confirms and explains they want to be able to face “any threat,” implying that they believe Santa can bring a unique skillset to the team. Santa, a bit emotional at the gesture, admits that he has more than enjoyed adventuring alongside Batman and Superman, and that it reminds him of long-past friendships, ultimately accepting the invitation to join.
Mrs. Claus, overhearing the conversation, excitedly jumps in as soon as Santa accepts. Her pride is on full display as she wraps him in his signature white fur-lined red cloak, enthusiastically declaring that they’ll need to make more if he plans to join the Justice League. Watching this exchange, Superman, clearly amused, quips “red cape,” referencing Santa’s cloak and making it obvious he’s delighted to share this iconic fashion statement with the legendary hero. Batman mutters a dismissive “eh,” but it’s obvious that both heroes are amused that Superman isn’t going to be the only hero known for his red cape.
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Santa Claus Joins the Justice League: Could He Become a Recurring Hero in DC's Narratives?
Cover B Card Stock Variant by Dan Mora for Batman / Santa Claus: Silent Knight Returns #1 (2024)
While Santa Claus joining the Justice League is undoubtedly a wholesome ending to a light-hearted comic, this development may carry some exciting implications. Most notably, fans might begin to see Santa outside the month of December in DC’s narratives. His official membership in the Justice League positions him to appear in other stories—such as Mark Waid and Dan Mora’s ongoing Justice League Unlimited series—now that his role has expanded beyond seasonal tales. Even if it’s just a cameo here and there, this move of making Santa a Justice League member opens the door for him to become a recurring presence.
Batman / Santa Claus: Silent Knight Returns #5 is available now from DC Comics!
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