It's a great time to be a Daredevil fan! The Netflix series continues with Daredevil: Born Again on Disney+, and Marvel Comics launches a new miniseries, Daredevil: Cold Day in Hell, reuniting writer Charles Soule and artist Steve McNiven. This series offers a unique premise: Daredevil gets his own Dark Knight Returns–style story.
IGN spoke with Soule to learn more. First, check out the exclusive preview of Daredevil: Cold Day in Hell #1 below, then read on for details and Soule's thoughts on Born Again's adaptation of his previous Daredevil work.
Daredevil: Cold Day in Hell #1 Preview Gallery
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The Dark Knight Returns comparison is apt. Cold Day in Hell is set in a future where Matt Murdock has lost his powers, grappling with age and past traumas. He's not alone; superheroes are largely absent from this futuristic Marvel Universe, until events force Matt back into action.
Soule explains, "Matt's older. We don't specify, but he left superhero life years ago. It wasn't just him; superheroes are gone in this world. His reason for leaving is simple: his powers, gained from radioactive exposure, faded over time. He retains his combat skills, but hasn't used them in years. He's an ordinary older man with an extraordinary past he's tried to leave behind."
This "aging superhero returns" trope is common, seen in titles like The End and Old Man Logan. Soule notes the effectiveness of this approach: "Showing familiar characters at unfamiliar life stages is a potent way to redefine them for readers. It clarifies their essence. What remains of Matt Murdock when his superhero abilities vanish? Does he need to be Daredevil? These stories offer the best of both worlds – stripping the hero down to essentials while allowing for fun, outside-of-continuity ideas."
He continues, "Cold Day in Hell takes place in its own Marvel Universe corner, where recent terrible events resonate through characters and story. Steve and I create cool new things using iconic Marvel elements, putting our own spin on them. Many stories do this, and Steve and I were inspired by brilliant variations on this theme."
Soule and McNiven previously collaborated on Death of Wolverine, exploring a hero confronting mortality. Asked if Cold Day in Hell is a companion piece, Soule says, "I think everything we do together is a companion piece. I've been fortunate to work with Steve. From Wolverine to Uncanny Inhumans, Star Wars, and now Daredevil, each project evolves our collaboration and friendship. I trust Steve's ability to create amazing visuals, and he hopefully feels the same about my scripts. This book was extremely collaborative, a back-and-forth discussion as scripts, inks, dialogue, and colors came together. Steve called it 'jazz,' and I agree. I'm proud of our work, but this one stands out."
The story explores how Daredevil's allies and enemies have aged. Soule teases major surprises regarding their roles, saying, "I don't want to say more—that's part of what people will tune in for."
Cold Day in Hell’s release coincides with Born Again, prompting the question of its accessibility as a Daredevil entry point. Soule believes it is: "It's designed to be enjoyed by those knowing the basics about Daredevil – blind, Catholic lawyer with former super-senses and ninja training, but now without the powers. Knowing key adversaries and allies helps, but isn't essential."
Regarding Born Again, which draws inspiration from Soule's 2015-2018 run (including Mayor Fisk and Muse), Soule confirms further influences: "I've seen the whole season and can confirm that my work with Ron Garney and collaborators is all over the show. Mayor Fisk and Muse, yes, but other elements too, especially thematic things from 2015-2018. It felt amazing. The thought that these ideas will reach so many people, remembering writing them down almost a decade ago… it's wonderful. I think fans will enjoy the show."
Daredevil: Cold Day in Hell #1 releases April 2, 2025. For more on Marvel Comics, see what to expect from Marvel in 2025 and our most anticipated comics of 2025.
