DC’s Absolute Universe dominates the nominations for the Eisner Awards 2026

The nominations for the 2026 Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards have been revealed, an event widely regarded as the Oscars of the comic industry. The Eisners highlight the best and most notable releases of the 2025 calendar year. This year, DC Comics is the most represented publisher, with a total of 16 nominations, plus 10 shared nominations.

Nominations from the Absolute Universe

A significant share of those nominations comes from the Absolute Universe line. The line has contributed to as many as 6 nominations for Absolute Martian Manhunter and 5 nominations for Absolute Batman. The impact of these titles is clear proof of DC’s popularity and influence in today’s comic landscape.

Competition from other publishers

Fantagraphics follows with 14 nominations, while Image Comics has 12 nominations (plus 9 shared) and Abrams accounts for 9 nominations. The range of publishers and genres represented in the nominations shows just how dynamic and creative the comic industry remains.

Key nominations

Some of the standout nominations across the full list include:

• Best Comic Book or Original Graphic Novel: Absolute Batman 2025 Annual #1 and Absolute Martian Manhunter #1.
• Best Continuing Series: Absolute Batman and Absolute Wonder Woman.
• Best Limited Series: Absolute Martian Manhunter.
• Best New Series: Assorted Crisis Events.

The awards aim to honor the work of comic writers, artists, and creatives who made a major contribution to the art form over the year.

Winners announcement

The Eisner Awards winners will be announced during San Diego Comic-Con on July 24. The ceremony will take place at the San Diego Hilton Bayfront Hotel, where fans and professionals alike will gather to celebrate the industry’s best work.

DC Comics continues to be a major force in the comic industry, with a strong portfolio that keeps growing and evolving. The recognition earned by the Absolute Universe line confirms DC’s ongoing contribution to comic culture and its continued influence on the market.