Absolute Superman #19
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/19.webp "Absolute Superman #19")
| Writer | Jason Aaron |
| Artist | Rafa Sandoval |
| Cover Price | $4.99 |
King Shazam has risen with a power unlike anything Superman has faced before. What connection does he have to Brainiac and the mysterious Father Box? Plus, another classic character has made their Absolute debut, though it remains to be seen if they’re a friend or foe of the Man of Steel…
CRITIC REVIEWS Back to Top
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10
Geek Dad - Ray Goldfield
May 06, 2026This is the largest-scale battle of the series yet, with King Shazam displaying a level of power we haven’t even seen out of Superman so far. It never slows down for even a second, and this issue has some of the first hints towards a larger shared universe we’ve seen. As this universe hasn’t shown even the slightest blip in quality yet, I am 100% down. Read Full Review
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10
Nerd Initiative - Matthew Roth
May 06, 2026Absolute Superman #19 is a powerful issue that packs brutal blows and brings about an electric issue that expands this universe just a bit more. Teth Adam is not to be messed with, and this is a battle that may consume the world if he is not stopped. I truly am blown away by this issue and it’s an instant must pull! Read Full Review
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10
The Aspiring Kryptonian - Tyrone Tony Reed Jr
May 07, 2026Absolute Superman #19 is another explosive issue with a strong story, incredible action and meaningful character parallels. With the focus centered so heavily on Ra’s, King Shazam, Superman and Steel, Lois’s presence almost slipped my mind from the previous issue. That does not hurt the story. It simply shows how fast these powerful forces are colliding. Read Full Review
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10
Lyles Movie Files - Jeffrey Lyles
May 07, 2026Absolute Superman’s Reign of the Superman arc has been a major surprise so far as the creative team continues to soar past expectations of how this Superman title should play out allowing for wild surprises and intriguing takes on characters. Read Full Review
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9.4
Fanlight Zone - Ken M.
May 06, 2026Long live the King! Superman’s latest adversary begins a dark path of rage in a brutal way. Arron steers the readers into the volatile fury of Shazam with ease. Sandoval and Arreola give the heavyweight figure a proper introduction with phenomenal art. This series just doesn’t miss on delivering excitement every time! Read Full Review
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8.7
The Super Powered Fancast - Deron Generally
May 06, 2026Sandoval crafts beautifully detailed and visually exciting art throughout the issue. I love the visual style and the character designs a lot. Read Full Review
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8.6
Comic Watch - Christian Laspada
May 06, 2026Absolute Superman #19 is an absolute gem and an essential read. A mix of real-world parallels and Superman’s fight for freedom is the refreshing take we needed. The narrative is strong, emotional, and filled with timely relevant themes. If you’re not reading Absolute Superman, you are missing out. Read Full Review
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8.5
AIPT - Collier Jennings
May 06, 2026Absolute Superman #19 doesn't hold back on the action as Superman and King Shazam come to blows, while Steel also enters the picture. Read Full Review
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8.0
Get Your Comic On - Luke Deckard
May 06, 2026Absolute Superman #19 cracks like lightning. King Shazam’s introduction is one that will thrill readers and, albeit momentarily, question whether Superman has met his match. However, the true heart of this issue is John Henry Irons, who is a very welcome addition to the universe. One thing is certain: Superman cannot stop King Shazam alone… Read Full Review
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8.0
Supergirl Comic Box Commentary - Anj
May 08, 2026Again, this is mostly a battle issue. The mysteries about King Shazam grabbed me. There are some small but solid moments with Talia and Lois. I am interested if this encounter will turn Steel, make him want to honor Superman like his main universe counterpart. Read Full Review
USER REVIEWS Back to Top
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10
Better than I anticipated. Stell is incredible, and the rework mirrors his original backstory perfectly. I imagine he’ll become lighter once he comes into contact with Superman. *** storyline finally reaches its conclusion in this issue. I liked it, even though it didn’t need to be as brutal as it was.
The art is a downgrade compared to the previous arc. It’s not bad, just very tiring to look at. I think I’m starting to get tired of Rafa Sandoval’s art style. I know a new artist is coming in for the next arc, so I can put up with it for now. Other than that, it’s a solid issue.
+ Like • Comment -
10
jaw-dropping action and yet another great character introduction. this series is firing on all cylinders
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10
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10
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9.0
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8.5
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8.0
2025 In Review:
