Absolute Martian Manhunter # 9 Cover A First Printing 2026 BN

Absolute Martian Manhunter #9, released on February 25, 2026, is a psychological horror issue that marks the series' "bleakest territory yet". Written by Deniz Camp with hallucinatory art by Javier Rodriguez, the issue focuses on the complete emotional and physical unraveling of its main characters. 

Plot Summary: "Alien Autopsy" 

The story follows two parallel, equally traumatic narratives: 

• The Physical Violation: While the Green Martian is missing, a mysterious government organization known as The Agency performs a graphic vivisection/autopsy on him. The sequence is noted for its "visually inventive" art, depicting non-Euclidean geometry and rainbow-colored organs.
• The Psychological Descent: John Jones is haunted by a new "partner," Despair-the-Zero (this universe’s version of Despero). Despair acts as a walking manifestation of John's clinical depression and intrusive thoughts, pushing him toward self-sabotage.
• Family Implosion: John's personal life reaches a breaking point when his wife, Bridget, ambushes him with a therapy intervention. The therapist labels John's alien experiences as "schizophrenic delusions," and Despair goads John into an outburst that further alienates him from his son, Tyler. 

Creative Team & Specifications 

• Writer: Deniz Camp
• Artist: Javier Rodriguez