Comics with Dan Daily | Secret Identities - 02/01/2026

Secret identities are a staple of the superhero genre in comic books - whether yoy want them there or not. It made a lot more sense in the Golden Age than it does now - for a few reasons. Superman was campy enough that people not recognizing him just because of his glasses (magical or otherwise) could be accepted, and without the internet to track Bruce Wayne's every move, it was a lot easier for Batman to not be identified as the Gotham socialite. I think the biggest reason though is the former - it worked because it needed to work and writers didn't need to jump through hoops to suspend belief.

I think that this trope in particular is interesting to look at - its something that time has passed by but is so important to the genre that it must be kept. Of course, the losing and/or regaining of a secret identity is often used as an plot point - and I think depending on how its done, it can be exciting. I'm of the opinion that we should be able to suspend our belief to allow for secret identities to exist and only impact the plot when the writer sees fit. In the internet age, no superhero actually goes to the lengths necessary to keep their identity secret - it just happens. No chance Bruce wouldn't have been found out by now (but also, that latest Batman issue??). I'm ok with secret identities and not needing overexplanation as to how the heroes keep them. Let comics be fun.

Any thoughts on whether secret identities need to stay or go? Comic staple or overused trope?