(Editor’s note: The following interview was conducted in the March 29th, 2025 issue of the AIPT newsletter.)
The DC Universe is very similar to a nation-state. In fact, it now has its own news network.
Starting this week, comic book expert Alex Jaffe has been working as host and producer of the unofficial space news podcast DC Action News. In it, Jaffe acts as a news reporter and dives into the current events of DC Comics. The show has a great balance of seriousness and humor, in just over eight minutes, it cleverly shines a spotlight on what’s going on in the DC Universe in how many weeks. The first episode is now (even where you can find the podcast), and that’s a real joy.
We recently caught up with Jaffe to talk about everything about DC Action News, including the show’s development process, connections with the new 52, long-term plans and goals.
From the new 52. Courtesy of DC Comics.
AIPT: Where did the DC Action News idea come from? Did it start as a space news program?
Alex Jaffe: I had the idea of doing news programs from a fictional world since I was 10 years old. I was able to write, so I was thinking about what it would be like to be a reporter in the world of Mario, Pokemon, or Metropolis. In 2011, DC had this backup feature called “Channel 52,” which promoted new releases on a similar premise. It was cool to watch, but I always thought you could do more with it.
Ever since gaining more podcast experiences on other shows, inserting credits and 52 pickups, and gaining more access and abilities about DC through our work at DC.com, editor Esper (Quinn) and I finally realized we were ready to take on this. It was a lot of work, but it was the most fun thing I’ve ever had on the project and I’m really proud of what it turned out to be.
AIPT: I remember “Channel 52!” It’s a fun concept, but it definitely felt like an afterthought. So, this has been pregnant for a long time, how does it feel now as it is there?
AJ: It’s better than I imagined. Esper Quinn is the best audio editor in podcasting and I’m so lucky to be able to partner with her for this. The soundscape she created for each episode really brings it to life. Despite me writing and recording it, every episode that was completed surprises me.
aipt: Who do you see as your ideal listener? Is there anyone tapped at the current DC Comics Event? Which readers are more casual than they’re trying to get into the manga?
AJ: I hope there’s something about DC Action News for everyone. While longtime fans have deep cut jokes, the central premise is to clearly address how ridiculous it must be to live in a world where 14 threats are threatened each week. On release date, you’ve already heard from listeners who discovered stories that they’re interested in reading more through the show’s overview. That kind of thing makes me feel like I’m done with work.
How does this affect your daily commute? ! Provided by DC Comics.
AIPT: That’s what I’m grateful for about your 52 podcast picks. You are always encouraging your readers not to be afraid to explore. Is the same for the DC Action News research and ETHOS? Will it enhance a story without A-listers?
AJ: Absolutely. Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman are always there, but the whole idea is to cover everything that’s going on in the line. If something happened with metamorpho that makes headlines if it happened in real life, you’ll hear about it. In DC Action News, all titles are equal.
AIPT: Do you have long-term plans for the show? A cameo with a guest, maybe?
AJ: We definitely have a plan. In the second episode, we begin to hear “advertisements” from established in-universe characters and begin expanding through “correspondent” Alex Jaffe. And then the interview happens! I’m currently sitting with Lois Lane, editor-in-chief of Daily Planet, discussing Metropolis’ “Superwoman.” I was excited to get some answers as to why I’ve never seen Lane and Superman’s new partner at the same time.
AIPT: That’s very exciting. Applying rules within the universe to the storytelling you’re doing sounds like a lot of fun. I’m seriously looking forward to hearing more from this young emerging reporter!
AJ: Like Lois himself, we’re aiming for that Pulitzer!
