Dick Grayson’s most iconic Robin catchphrase has officially returned to mainstream continuity, and it’s even more ridiculous than ever—in the absolute best way. This return has only deepened my obsession with Dick’s latest Nightwing run, making me truly believe it’s one of his best yet.
..I’m absolutely obsessed that Watters has brought this delightfully ridiculous aspect of Dick’s character back.
Dan Watters and Dexter Soy’s Nightwing #122 is still a few days away from its official release on January 15, 2025, but fans can get an early taste with a five-page preview from DC. This sneak peek picks up the chaos that has become Dick Grayson’s life as he confronts Bludhaven’s commissioner over her decision to arm the city’s police force with military-grade weapons courtesy of Spheric Solutions.
He chastises her for accepting these weapons from Olivia Pearce, the CEO of Spheric Solutions, warning that she doesn’t truly know who Olivia is. This moment leads into a flashback, where Dick’s iconic “Holy XXX Batman” catchphrase makes a triumphant return.
“Holy Blood-Soaked Bacchanalia, Batman!”: Dick Grayson’s “Holy XXX Batman” Catchphrase Makes a Triumphant Return
Comic Panel Comes From Nightwing #122 (2025) – Art by Dexter Soy
When the commissioner asks Nightwing to clarify what he meant by “who she really is,” Dick responds, “It was a long time ago. Back when I worked with— a partner.” The scene then transitions into a flashback, taking us back to when Dick worked alongside Batman as Robin. The flashback begins with Robin Dick exclaiming, “Holy blood-soaked bacchanalia, Batman! I took these guys for another pack of wannabe Joker clones… but this sure is somethin' else.” And with that, Robin Dick’s iconic and formulaic “Holy XXX Batman” catchphrase makes an epic return.
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What Is the Origin of Robin’s “Holy XXX Batman” Catchphrase?
Screenshot of Adam West & Burt Ward as Batman & Robin from the 1960s Batman TV Series
The return of this ridiculous yet beloved catchphrase is undoubtedly appreciated by many long-time Robin fans, especially those who have a fondness for the 1960s Batman TV show, starring Adam West and Burt Ward as Batman and Robin, respectively. While the phrase "Holy…!" has long been used as an exclamation in many English-speaking countries, Burt Ward’s Robin took this common expression and amplified the absurdity tenfold, creating something both familiar and hilarious. Thus, the “Holy XXX Batman” catchphrase finds its origins in the 1960s TV series Batman, where the filler of the catchphrase shifted based on the situation.
For example, in the season one episode "The Londinium Larcenies," Lady Prudence teases that she received a Mistresses of Shoplifting mark in finishing school, to which Robin responds, "Holy contributing to the delinquency of minors!!” Another instance is in season 2's "Hot Off the Griddle," where Catwoman captures Batman and Robin and straps them to giant aluminum grills, smearing them with margarine and placing two giant magnifying glasses above them to roast them. In response, Robin shouts, "Holy Oleo, Batman!” Hence, each situation brought a unique spin to the phrase. This remains true in Watters’ use of the phrase in Nightwing #122, as it directly reflects the context and chaos of the situation.
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“Holy Blood-Soaked Bacchanalia, Batman!”: Explained
Comic Panel Comes From Nightwing #122 (2025) – Art by Dexter Soy
After Dick shouts “Holy blood-soaked bacchanalia, Batman!” in Nightwing #122, Dexter Soy’s epic artwork reveals a man sitting on top of a prone body, with other unconscious or possibly dead bodies surrounding him as he juggles human skulls. In greeting to the Dynamic Duo, the juggling man says, “Welcome to the Cirque Du Sin, Batman and Robin!” With this context, it’s clear how Dick’s “Holy XXX Batman” catchphrase is tailored to the situation. The “blood-soaked” part refers to the carnage, while “bacchanalia” alludes to an ancient Roman festival dedicated to Bacchus, the god of wine, revelry, and fertility.
Over time, the term “bacchanalia” has evolved to describe any wild or drunken celebration marked by excessive drinking, partying, and uninhibited behavior. It often conveys a sense of chaotic indulgence, which perfectly aligns with the scene the Dynamic Duo has stumbled upon. Watters’ use of the catchphrase is spot on, and I’m absolutely obsessed that he’s brought this delightfully ridiculous aspect of Dick’s character back. It’s small details like this that can make or break a comic run for me, and this has me thinking that this series is well on its way to being one of Nightwing’s best.
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Nightwing #122 is available January 15, 2025, from DC Comics!
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Nightwing
Nightwing is the superhero moniker taken up by Dick Grayson, upon his aging out of the Robin role and becoming a superhero of his own. Inspired by the original Kryptonian hero of the same name, Grayson has risen to comic book immortality with the identity, earning respect as one of the greatest leaders in the DC Universe.
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