Every DC Easter Egg You Missed in My Hero Academia (And What They Really Mean)

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Summary

  • Re-Destro’s design pays homage to The Joker, with similar features and a sinister laugh.
  • Deku’s Dark Hero arc resembles Batman, watching over the city from a skyscraper.
  • Toga’s mask is inspired by Bane, showcasing a reference to Batman’s foe through fashion.

It’s not unexpected that the creator of “My Hero Academia”, Kohei Horikoshi, was significantly influenced by American comics during the development of this widely acclaimed anime show. Although there are numerous Marvel references to watch for, Horikoshi has also cleverly incorporated some hints towards DC Comics too. In a realm filled with heroes and villains, it’s only natural that figures such as Batman and The Joker would turn up somewhere, but they aren’t the sole DC characters that have been referenced in the series.

In Horikoshi’s work, there are frequent homages to well-known comic book characters, making some references quite apparent while others are hidden gems for seasoned DC fans who have followed comics, TV series, and films. Let’s take a closer look at the numerous DC references that attentive viewers can spot in My Hero Academia.

6. Re-Destro And The Joker

The Meta Liberation Army’s Commander Bares A Striking Resemblance To Batman’s Arch Enemy

Instead of making Re-Destro an ordinary businessman with a bland appearance, Horikoshi opted to add some unique touches to his design, resulting in a formidable antagonist that stands out. This is particularly evident when considering his immense power. Interestingly, one villain who seems to have influenced Re-Destro significantly is the Joker. For instance, they both possess a distinctive pointed nose, similar hairstyles, and even share a chilling laugh.

I’m thrilled to say that despite some similarities, Re-Destro remains a one-of-a-kind character, brimming with his own values, ideas, and powers. He doesn’t feel like yet another carbon copy of the legendary Batman villain, the Joker. Yet, it’s undeniable that there’s a striking resemblance between them, which isn’t necessarily a downside given the adoration he garners among DC enthusiasts.

5. Deku Watches Over The City Like Batman

The Dark Hero Arc Saw Deku Bringing Out His Inner Batman

Following his discovery that All For One and Shigaraki pose a direct threat to him and his Quirk, the hero resolves to leave UA and his companions behind, opting for a life of rebellion to safeguard them from potential danger. This sets the stage for what is commonly referred to as Deku’s Dark Hero arc. The story then unfolds with an initial scene featuring a melancholic-looking Deku standing atop a skyscraper, keeping vigil over the city.

This image stands out on its own as impressive, yet it carries a strong resemblance to iconic Batman artwork, where the caped crusader is depicted surveying Gotham from a perched gargoyle. There are numerous depictions like this that could have sparked inspiration, however, the one most akin to this specific image is the Batman #208 illustration by Jim Lee. This piece has gained wide recognition among fans due to its immense popularity online.

4. Toga’s Bane Mask

Toga Decided To Take Some Fashion Inspiration From The Behemoth Known As Bane

When Toga isn’t feeding on her victims and drinking their blood, she often wears a black and silver mask covering her mouth. At first sight, this mask might appear as an odd accessory that Toga chose to wear impulsively, but astute Batman fans will recognize it as a deliberate nod to one of Batman’s most formidable foes – Bane.

The design of Bane’s mask gained wide recognition after it was featured in the film “The Dark Knight Rises”, lending Bane his distinctive deep and gruff voice. Interestingly, Toga and Bane may have a common style sense, as this is another charming nod to one of Batman’s most iconic adversaries.

3. Knuckleduster Is A Step-In For Batman

Just Like Batman, Knuckleduster Continues To Fight, Despite Having No Powers

In the Vigilantes spinoff series, there’s a character named Knuckleduster who made his debut. Unlike other characters, he doesn’t have a special ability or “Quirk.” This limitation prevents him from becoming a hero, but his pure heart remains undeterred. Instead, he chooses to work as a vigilante. To handle any villains that come his way, Knuckleduster has honed his hand-to-hand combat skills to perfection and carries various gadgets for those moments when fights escalate.

If you find this character, Knuckleduster, reminiscent of someone, it’s because they share many traits with Batman. Both lack superpowers but exist in a world brimming with them, and both have honed their physical abilities to combat crime. Moreover, the relationship between Knuckleduster and All Might echoes that of Batman and Superman from DC comics.

2. All It Takes Is One Bad Day

Joker’s Classic Quote Is Used For A Chapter Focusing on Twice

Among many insightful and influential statements attributed to The Joker, the most widely recognized and fittingly applicable to his persona is when he says that “one bad day” can lead a normal person into becoming a villain. This quote seems particularly relevant for a chapter in the manga My Hero Academia, as it mirrors the tragic past of the character Twice, suggesting that a single unfortunate event set him on his path towards villainy.

In another words, Twice’s extraordinary power allowed him to replicate whatever he touched, leading unintentionally to the creation of an entire legion of copies. This situation made him ponder whether he was indeed the authentic Twice or a fake, which gradually drove him insane. Eventually, he transformed into a malevolent figure, intending to dismantle the society that cast him aside due to his unique circumstances and mental turmoil.

1. Superman

The Hero Of Metropolis Makes A Quick Cameo At The Beginning Of The Story

At the start of the comic series “My Hero Academia,” before Deku obtains One For All, there’s an initial scene that gives insight into the functioning of the hero society within the storyline. This scene captivates readers with a stunning image of All Might, his cape billowing in the wind. To the right of the page, a mix of shadowy figures is presented, which are evident nods to popular superheroes. Among these, Spider-Man and Moon Knight can be spotted, but even DC’s iconic Superman makes a brief appearance.

It’s evident that Horikoshi was intending to pay tribute to the iconic hero of Metropolis with his clenched fist pointed towards the heavens and a somber expression. Though Batman and his rogues are frequently mentioned compared to Superman, it’s significant that the Man of Steel makes an appearance in some form or another, particularly at the beginning of this narrative.

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2025-07-07 08:35