The Worst Superpower Given to a DC Comics Character: The Nine Lives of Selina Kyle

Superheroes with Selina Kyle, also known as Catwoman, have been a favorite among fans for decades, thanks to her distinctive character and backstory. However, in recent years, the character has been receiving numerous power boosts that some enthusiasts have deemed unnecessary. This article delves into the latest controversy surrounding Selina Kyle, particularly focusing on her nine lives, and whether it qualifies as the worst new power given to a DC Comics hero.

The DC Comics Universe and the Evolution of Selina Kyle

DC Comics has a rich and complex universe where heroes and villains evolve with the times. Catwoman, initially introduced as a cat burglar turned supervillain, has undergone numerous changes and development throughout her history. Notably, her transformation into a superhero has been a pivotal point in her narrative, and it is this transformation that has drawn ire from some fans.

The Nine Lives of Selina Kyle

While Selina Kyle's origin is rooted in her having multiple lives as a character, her most recent power boost involving the nine lives of a cat goddess, Bastet, can be attributed to a storyline that began in the Tim Burton era. This idea that Selina Kyle, a well-loved character among many, now has nine lives adds a layer of validation to her invulnerability and seems to be a homage to her feline roots, albeit in an over-the-top manner.

Convergence: A Point of Controversy

During the Convergence storyline, which saw the convergence of different alternate timelines, the revival of the SHAZAM character also led to an interesting crossover for Selina. Bastet, the cat goddess, provisioned Selina with select SHAZAM powers, which she then eventually lost during the New 52 reboot. This power boost was not just a one-time event but one that strained relationships between her and other heroes, particularly Batman, due to the perceived imbalance in their abilities.

Tim Burton's Influence and the Scurry for Punny Powers

Tim Burton's influence on DC Comics has been significant, and the punk aesthetic he brings to the genre often leads to unexpected and sometimes controversial power boosts. The decision to grant Selina Kyle powers based on her inherent feline nature, which became a literal penguin in The Dark Knight movie, was seen as a playful nod to his creative direction. However, the latest power boost, which was even more explicit, has been criticized for adding an unnecessary layer of invincibility that detracts from the character's complexity and stakes in stories.

Is Nine Lives the Worst New Power?

Whether the nine lives or any other power boost given to Catwoman can be classified as the worst is subjective. Some argue that the power boost aids in compelling narratives, while others find it redundant and ruining the character's dynamic. The key question is whether the power boost serves the story and enriches the character's identity or if it oversimplifies the challenges and adds an excessive layer of invulnerability.

Conclusion

While the nine lives power boost for Selina Kyle, a character beloved by many, has garnered a significant amount of backlash from comic book enthusiasts, the evaluation of its pros and cons is a matter of perspective. Whether it is the worst new power given to a DC Comics character remains up for debate, but one thing is clear: the topic of the character's evolution and the strategic use of powers continues to fuel discussions and arguments among fans.