One of DC’s most beloved young heroes is finally getting the spotlight fans have been asking for.
During its Next Level panel at San Diego Comic-Con 2026, DC Comics announced that Static, better known to generations of fans as Static Shock thanks to the hit animated series, will headline a brand-new ongoing comic book series. The title will be written by Cody Ziglar with artwork by Diego Olortegui, signaling DC’s commitment to making Virgil Hawkins a permanent fixture in its publishing lineup.
Created by the legendary Milestone Media team of Dwayne McDuffie, Denys Cowan, Michael Davis, and Derek T. Dingle, Static first appeared in Static #1 in 1993. The teenage superhero quickly became one of comics’ most relatable protagonists, balancing school, family, friendships, and the responsibilities that came with his incredible electromagnetic powers.
His popularity exploded in 2000 when Static Shock debuted on Kids’ WB. The animated series introduced millions of viewers to Virgil Hawkins and became one of the defining superhero cartoons of its era. Along the way, Static crossed paths with Batman, Superman, the Justice League, and Batman Beyond, proving he belonged alongside DC’s biggest icons.
Despite that popularity, Static’s comic book appearances have often been sporadic. Fans have repeatedly called for a long-term commitment to the character, and DC’s latest announcement suggests the publisher is finally ready to answer that demand.
Writer Cody Ziglar has become one of comics’ rising stars thanks to acclaimed work on Miles Morales: Spider-Man and other projects that successfully blend action, humor, and authentic young voices. His ability to write energetic, character-driven stories makes him an excellent fit for Virgil Hawkins.
Joining Ziglar is artist Diego Olortegui, whose dynamic storytelling and expressive character work promise to capture both the excitement and emotional heart that have always defined Static’s adventures.
While DC has not revealed many story details, the series is part of the publisher’s Next Level initiative, pairing talented creators with fan-favorite characters who deserve a larger role in the DC Universe.
The announcement doesn’t come out of nowhere. Earlier this year, DC began laying the groundwork for Static’s return by bringing him into the pages of New Titans, where Virgil Hawkins joins the team as they confront a major threat in the Amazon rainforest. That storyline serves as a bridge between his recent appearances and his upcoming solo title, giving readers a chance to reconnect with the character before he launches into his own adventures.
Static has always represented something unique in superhero comics. He’s intelligent without being arrogant, powerful without being invincible, and optimistic without ignoring the real-world challenges around him. His stories have traditionally mixed superhero action with themes of family, friendship, responsibility, and social issues, making him one of the most relatable heroes in comics.
For many readers, Static was their first superhero who looked and sounded like them. For others, he was simply an incredibly fun character whose adventures stood shoulder-to-shoulder with the biggest names in comics. Either way, his absence from the spotlight has always felt like a missed opportunity.
DC appears determined to change that.
The announcement of an ongoing series is significant. In today’s comic market, publishers often begin with limited series to test interest. Launching Static in an ongoing title demonstrates a greater level of confidence in both the character and the creative team.
With Cody Ziglar and Diego Olortegui at the helm, and the momentum generated by his return in New Titans, Static is poised to reclaim his place as one of DC’s premier young heroes.
For longtime fans who grew up watching Static Shock, and for a new generation discovering Virgil Hawkins for the first time, the future has never looked more electrifying.
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