Before Dick Grayson stepped out of Batman’s shadow to forge his own destiny, he was Robin—the first Boy Wonder, acrobat-turned-crimefighter, and one half of one of the most iconic duos in comics history. But breaking away from a legacy as big as the Dark Knight’s is never simple, and Nightwing: Year One, now available on DC High Volume: Batman!, takes listeners right back to the turning point where everything changed.
This debut chapter explores the pivotal events surrounding Dick’s final adventure as Robin, capturing the emotion, conflict, and growth at the heart of his evolution. As a young hero determined to prove his worth but struggling under Batman’s increasingly demanding expectations, Dick faces a crossroads that will define the course of his life. The episode digs into the tension that ultimately leads to his departure from the Batcave, laying the foundation for his rebirth as Nightwing.
LISTEN TO THE AUDIO PODCAST VERSION HERE!
Adapted from Nightwing #101 (January 2005), which is a story crafted by writing team of Chuck Dixon and Scott Beatty. Their work in Nightwing: Year One is regarded as one of the most definitive explorations of the character’s transition from sidekick to solo hero. Scott McDaniel’s sharp, kinetic artwork in the issue adds a layer of urgency and emotion, visually highlighting both the intensity of Batman and Robin’s final clash and the sense of freedom Dick begins to feel once he’s no longer bound by the mantle of Robin.
The episode also incorporates “Long Day,” a short but memorable tale from Batman: Black and White #4, written and illustrated by the immensely talented Dustin Nguyen. Known for his distinctive style and ability to convey mood with striking simplicity, Nguyen’s contribution offers a tonal complement to the main narrative—deepening the exploration of Batman’s world while underscoring the emotional distance Dick must overcome.
Together, these stories paint a vivid picture of a young hero at a breaking point and a mentor whose methods may be too rigid for the partner he helped shape. It’s a moment that tests Dick Grayson’s resilience, identity, and loyalty—and ultimately propels him toward a future where he will stand as a hero in his own right.
Whether you’re a lifelong Nightwing fan, a Batman aficionado, or new to the legacy of the original Boy Wonder, Nightwing: Year One is a compelling listen that captures the heart of one of DC’s most enduring characters. Tune in and experience the defining journey that transformed Robin into Nightwing.
