Behind-The-Scenes

The following scans below are artist Andy Kuhn's initial sketches for KID KOBRA, heir apparent to the DC Universe's most insidious criminal cult.

Though penciler Pete Woods rendered the Danny Temple saga in ROBIN #88-91 (with Manuel Garcia stepping in to tie up a few loose ends for now in ROBIN #92), the Kid's genesis goes all the way back to YOUNG JUSTICE IN NO MAN¹S LAND, which I co-wrote with Chuck Dixon. The wildly talented Mr. Kuhn provided the art for that one, which featured some Kobra muscle among the assembled villainy.

Danny's story was originally imagined for a follow-up YJ adventure, but instead made his way into the life of boy wonder Tim Drake.

Kid Kobra by Pete Woods from ROBIN #91

THE WINNAH!

Andy's initial design, seen here, was my favorite. A little manga-inspiration, the bejeweled gauntlets, and the stylized cobra-hood all had me at hello.

STEALTH SUIT

This one remains on back-up for covert slithering. Is it just me, or does the gaping cobra across Danny's midriff seem...almost...hypnotic...

WHOA!

Andy will be the first to tell you that this one was definitely inspired by Keanu Reeves turn as Neo in THE MATRIX. Dig the funky shades and cobra tattoos, dudes.