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 compelling premise: Daredevil gets his own Dark Knight Returns moment.
IGN spoke with Soule to learn more. First, check out the exclusive preview of Daredevil: Cold Day in Hell #1 (see gallery below), then read on for details and Soule's thoughts on Born Again's adaptation of his past work.
Daredevil: Cold Day in Hell #1 Preview Gallery
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The Dark Knight Returns comparison is apt. Cold Day in Hell isn't set in the present-day Marvel Universe; instead, it depicts an older Matt Murdock, stripped of his powers, grappling with age and past traumas. He's not the only hero to retire in this future Marvel Universe—a fact that sets the stage for his return.
Soule explains, "Matt's older. We don't specify his age, but he's left superhero life behind years ago. This isn't unique to him; superheroes are largely absent in Cold Day in Hell's world. His retirement is simple, superhero-logically speaking: his radioactive-induced powers have faded. He retains his combat skills, but hasn't used them in a long time. He's an ordinary older man with an extraordinary past he's tried to leave behind."
The "aging hero returns" trope is common, seen in works like The End series and Old Man Logan. Soule explains its appeal: "The tonal shift showcasing familiar characters at unfamiliar life stages powerfully redefines them for readers, clarifying 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, out-of-continuity ideas."
He continues, "Cold Day in Hell occupies its own Marvel Universe corner, marked by recent terrible events whose after-effects resonate through characters and story. Steve and I create cool new things using iconic Marvel elements, adding our spin. Many stories do this; Steve and I were inspired by other brilliant variations."
This isn't Soule and McNiven's first collaboration exploring mortality in a Marvel hero. 2014's Death of Wolverine similarly dealt with the iconic X-Man's demise. Soule sees Cold Day in Hell as a companion piece, despite the differing Marvel Universe settings: "Everything we do together is a companion piece. I'm fortunate to work with Steve. From Wolverine to Uncanny Inhumans, Star Wars, and now Daredevil, our collaborations evolve, mirroring our 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 during script, ink, dialogue, and color stages; it's visible on the page. Steve called it 'jazz,' and I agree. I'm proud of our work, but this stands out."
The appeal of stories like Cold Day in Hell lies in seeing how heroes' friends and enemies age. The Dark Knight Returns shows a catatonic Joker and a government-controlled Superman. Soule remains tight-lipped about Daredevil's supporting cast and villains, promising major surprises.
He teases, "I won't say more—that's part of the draw."
Daredevil: Cold Day in Hell #1's release coincides with Born Again, suggesting Marvel aims to capitalize on the show's debut. Soule confirms the series serves as an accessible entry point into Daredevil comics, despite its future setting and reliance on existing continuity: "I think so! It's designed for readers familiar with Daredevil's basics—blind, Catholic lawyer with former super-senses and ninja training, but not anymore. Knowing key adversaries and allies helps, but isn't essential."
Regarding Born Again, its inspiration from Soule's 2015-2018 run is evident. Like the comic, the show features Mayor Fisk and the villain Muse. Soule confirms other, unexpected elements are drawn from his run: "I've seen the whole season of Daredevil: Born Again, and can confirm my work with Ron Garney and collaborators during my Daredevil run is throughout the show. Mayor Fisk and Muse, yes, but also thematic elements 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. 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.
