Grayson Annual #3 (2016) – An Espionage Mystery Told Through the Eyes of DC’s Finest đ”️♂️✨
Genre
đ„ Superhero, Espionage, Mystery, Action
Grayson Annual #3 blends classic superhero action with espionage thrills and detective storytelling. This issue takes a unique narrative approach, combining humor, suspense, and multi-perspective storytelling that elevates it beyond a standard superhero tale.
Main Characters
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Dick Grayson / Agent 37 đŠž♂️ – The former Robin and Nightwing, now a top-tier secret agent for Spyral.
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Jim Corrigan / The Spectre đ» – Detective turned supernatural avenger, acting here as an investigative host.
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Harley Quinn đ – Chaotic, unpredictable, and as eccentric as ever.
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Azrael (Jean-Paul Valley) đ„ – The intense, righteous vigilante with a mystic edge.
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John Constantine đź – The ever-cynical occult detective with a taste for trouble.
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Simon Baz / Green Lantern đ – A determined and disciplined Green Lantern with a grounded sense of justice.
Writer
✍️ Jackson Lanzing & Collin Kelly
The duo craft a smartly structured, character-rich story that cleverly dissects the mythos of Dick Grayson through others’ eyes.
Artist
đš Roge Antonio, Christian Duce, Flaviano, Natasha Alterici, Javier Fernandez
Each artist brings a unique visual style to the respective character segments, adding diversity and flavor to the narrative without losing cohesion.
Editor Details
đ Editors: Rebecca Taylor & Mark Doyle
Their direction ensures the multi-perspective format stays tight, clear, and emotionally resonant. Each segment fits seamlessly into the whole.
Publisher and Brand
đ DC Comics – DC You (post-New 52 era)
Part of the experimental and character-driven "DC You" initiative that allowed creators more flexibility with storytelling formats and character voices.
Release Year
đ 2016
Brief Plot Summary
Detective Jim Corrigan is on a mission to uncover the true identity of the elusive Agent 37 — none other than Dick Grayson. To do so, he interviews several heroes who’ve encountered the enigmatic spy. What follows is a multi-perspective recollection, with each character offering their own stylized and often hilarious account of meeting Grayson. From Harley’s wild, chaotic encounter to Constantine’s supernatural twist, each tale adds depth to the legacy of Grayson’s time with Spyral.
Through their eyes, readers piece together a puzzle that’s less about the mystery of identity and more about understanding the heart and versatility of Dick Grayson. đđŒ
Notable Arcs or Storylines
đ "Who Is Agent 37?" – While not a traditional arc, this one-shot serves as a culmination of the Grayson series' thematic question: How do others see Dick Grayson, and what does it say about who he really is? It’s a narrative collage celebrating his evolution.
Fan Theories or Interpretations
đŹ Fans have speculated that this issue subtly reaffirms Grayson’s central role in the DCU — a character who adapts, connects, and thrives in every corner of the universe. Some interpret the varied portrayals as metaphors for Grayson's emotional flexibility, psychological strength, and unshakeable core, no matter the lens.
Others suggest Corrigan’s role represents the DC Universe itself trying to define someone who constantly reinvents himself — hero, spy, lover, fighter, and friend.
Review Summary
⭐ A Multilayered, Character-Driven Masterpiece
Grayson Annual #3 is more than a filler or side issue — it’s a celebration of Dick Grayson's legacy told through eclectic and entertaining voices. The writing shines in its wit and structure, while the rotating artists deliver distinct and engaging visual tones tailored to each storyteller. Character depth is rich, especially for Grayson, who never directly speaks for himself but is vividly revealed through others. A must-read for fans of spy thrillers, character studies, and the versatility of DC's lesser-used icons.
đŻ Verdict: 9/10 – Stylish, heartfelt, and creatively executed.
Comic Resource / Read Online (External Source)
