Batman # 5 Cover H Jiménez Foil Variant First Printing 2026 BN

, released on January 7, 2026, is a fast-paced "date night gone wrong" that features Bruce Wayne in his civilian identity for the entire issue. Written by Matt Fraction and illustrated by Jorge Jiménez, the story focuses on the tension of Bruce trying to save his date without revealing he is Batman. 

Plot Summary: "Date and Run" 

• The Date: Bruce picks up Dr. Annika Zeller, a psychiatrist from Arkham Tower, for a night out in Little Tokyo. The two playfully bicker over whether the outing is a formal date while their chemistry grows.
• The Threat: The night is immediately interrupted by the 000 Gang and a group of motorcycle-riding ninjas. They are targeting Dr. Zeller because of her experimental "Crown of Storms" technology, which has a bounty placed on it.
• Action Highlights: Bruce engages in a high-speed chase through Gotham using his "muscle car" (a civilian-style Batmobile). He is forced to fight multiple assassins while wearing a tuxedo, using improvised weapons like a champagne bucket to maintain his "playboy" cover.
• New Villain: The issue features the debut of The Ōjō (formerly teased as Lady Death Man), a supernatural-leaning assassin who can manifest with smoke and crows.
• The Cliffhanger: As the battle concludes, Damian Wayne (Robin) arrives to neutralize The Ōjō. In a pivotal slip-up, Damian calls Bruce "Father" in front of a suspicious Dr. Zeller, effectively exposing Bruce's secret identity. 

Creative Team & Specifications 

• Writer: Matt Fraction
• Artist/Penciler: Jorge Jiménez
• Colorist: Tomeu Morey
• Rating: Teen