Jump to content

Harvey Bullock (character): Difference between revisions

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Content deleted Content added
Unnecessary plot summary
Grammar
(25 intermediate revisions by 20 users not shown)
Line 2: Line 2:
{{short description|Fictional DC Comics character}}
{{short description|Fictional DC Comics character}}
{{Infobox comics character<!--Wikipedia:WikiProject Comics-->
{{Infobox comics character<!--Wikipedia:WikiProject Comics-->
|character_name= Harvey Bullock
| character_name = Harvey Bullock
|image=Harvey Bullock (DC Comics character).png
| image = Harvey Bullock (DC Comics character).png
|caption=Harvey Bullock, as he appeared on a splash page of ''The Other History of the DC Universe'' #4 (May 2021).<br>Art by Giuseppe Camuncoli.
| caption = Harvey Bullock as depicted in ''The Other History of the DC Universe'' #4 (May 2021).<br>Art by Giuseppe Camuncoli.
|publisher=[[DC Comics]]
| publisher = [[DC Comics]]
|debut={{ubl|'''As Lieutenant Bullock:'''<br/>''[[Detective Comics]]'' #441<br/>(June 1974)|'''As Detective Harvey Bullock:'''<br/>''Batman'' #361 (July 1983)}}
| debut = {{ubl|'''As Lieutenant Bullock:'''|''[[Detective Comics]]'' #441 (June 1974)|'''As Detective Harvey Bullock:'''|''Batman'' #361 (July 1983)}}
|creators= {{ubl|'''As Lieutenant Bullock:'''{{ubl|[[Archie Goodwin (comics)|Archie Goodwin]] (writer)|[[Howard Chaykin]] (artist)}}|'''As Detective Harvey Bullock:'''{{ubl|[[Doug Moench]] (writer)|[[Don Newton]] (artist)}}}}
| creators = {{ubl|'''As Lieutenant Bullock:'''|[[Archie Goodwin (comics)|Archie Goodwin]] (writer)|[[Howard Chaykin]] (artist)|'''As Detective Harvey Bullock:'''|[[Doug Moench]] (writer)|[[Don Newton]] (artist)}}
|full_name= Harvey Bullock
| full_name = Harvey Bullock
|species =
| species =
|homeworld =
| homeworld =
|alliances = {{ubl|[[Gotham City Police Department|GCPD]]|[[Checkmate (comics)|Checkmate]]}}
| alliances = [[Gotham City Police Department|GCPD]]<br>[[Checkmate (comics)|Checkmate]]
|aliases = <!-- optional: actual identities the character uses, not nicknames -->
| aliases = <!-- optional: actual identities the character uses, not nicknames -->
|supports= [[Batman]]
| supports = [[Batman]]
|powers = Trained detective
| powers = Trained detective
}}
}}
'''Harvey Bullock''' ({{IPAc-en|ˈ|b|ʊ|l|ə|k}}) is a fictional detective appearing in [[American comic book]]s published by [[DC Comics]], commonly in association with the [[superhero]] [[Batman]].<ref name="dc-ency">{{Citation | last = Wallace | first = Dan | contribution = Sgt. Bullock | editor-last = Dougall | editor-first = Alastair | title = The DC Comics Encyclopedia | page = 63 | publisher = [[Dorling Kindersley]] | place = London | year = 2008 | isbn = 978-0-7566-4119-1}}</ref> The character first appeared in ''[[Detective Comics]]'' #441 (June 1974) and was created by [[Archie Goodwin (comics)|Archie Goodwin]] and [[Howard Chaykin]].<ref>{{cite book |last1=Greenberger |first1=Robert |title=The Essential Batman Encyclopedia |date=2008 |publisher=Del Rey |isbn=9780345501066 |pages=68–69}}</ref> In animation, he appeared throughout the [[DC Animated Universe]] voiced by [[Robert Costanzo]]. He debuted in live-action in 2014 on Fox's television series ''[[Gotham (TV series)|Gotham]]'', portrayed by [[Donal Logue]].
'''Harvey Bullock''' ({{IPAc-en|ˈ|b|ʊ|l|ə|k}}) is a fictional detective appearing in [[American comic book]]s published by [[DC Comics]], commonly in association with the [[superhero]] [[Batman]].<ref name="dc-ency">{{Citation | last = Wallace | first = Dan | contribution = Sgt. Bullock | editor-last = Dougall | editor-first = Alastair | title = The DC Comics Encyclopedia | page = 63 | publisher = [[Dorling Kindersley]] | place = London | year = 2008 | isbn = 978-0-7566-4119-1}}</ref> The character first appeared in ''[[Detective Comics]]'' #441 (June 1974) and was created by [[Archie Goodwin (comics)|Archie Goodwin]] and [[Howard Chaykin]].<ref>{{cite book |last1=Greenberger |first1=Robert |title=The Essential Batman Encyclopedia |date=2008 |publisher=Del Rey |isbn=9780345501066 |pages=68–69}}</ref> In animation, he appeared throughout the [[DC Animated Universe]], voiced by [[Robert Costanzo]]. He debuted in live-action in 2014 on Fox's television series ''[[Gotham (TV series)|Gotham]]'', portrayed by [[Donal Logue]].


{{TOC limit|3}}
{{TOC limit|3}}


==Publication history==
==Publication history==
There is some ambiguity concerning the character's origins. Writer [[Doug Moench]] and artist [[Don Newton]] introduced Harvey Bullock in ''[[Batman (comic book)|Batman]]'' #361 (July 1983) as a device to resolve the ongoing plotline with Gotham City's corrupt mayor [[Hamilton Hill (comics)|Hamilton Hill]], and subsequent ''[[Who's Who in the DC Universe]]'' entries acknowledged this as the new Bullock's [[first appearance]].<ref name="back91">{{cite journal|last=Wells|first=John |title=Bullies and Blowhards of the DC Bronze Age |journal=[[Back Issue!]]|issue=91|pages=19–22 |publisher=[[TwoMorrows Publishing]]|date=September 2016|location=Raleigh, North Carolina}}</ref> However, in later years Batman fans began pointing out that a "Lt. Bullock" appeared in three panels of ''[[Detective Comics]]'' #441 (1974), written by [[Archie Goodwin (comics)|Archie Goodwin]], pencilled by [[Howard Chaykin]], and published almost a decade before. Moench admitted that he must have read this comic because he is an Archie Goodwin fan, but denied that Harvey Bullock is the same character. He argued that it is unlikely that he drew on Goodwin's Lt. Bullock even unconsciously, since there are discrepancies of both personality and continuity between his character and Goodwin's, and he distinctly remembers taking the name "Bullock" from guitarist [[Hiram Bullock]].<ref name="back91"/> Archie Goodwin is legally Harvey Bullock's sole creator; Moench said he decided not to contest this because he did not want to make a case against Goodwin's widow Anne Goodwin, whom he considers a friend.<ref name="back91"/>
There is some ambiguity concerning the character's origins. Writer [[Doug Moench]] and artist [[Don Newton]] introduced Harvey Bullock in ''[[Batman (comic book)|Batman]]'' #361 (July 1983) as a device to resolve the ongoing plotline with Gotham City's corrupt mayor [[Hamilton Hill (character)|Hamilton Hill]], and subsequent ''[[Who's Who in the DC Universe]]'' entries acknowledged this as the new Bullock's [[first appearance]].<ref name="back91">{{cite journal|last=Wells|first=John |title=Bullies and Blowhards of the DC Bronze Age |journal=[[Back Issue!]]|issue=91|pages=19–22 |publisher=[[TwoMorrows Publishing]]|date=September 2016|location=Raleigh, North Carolina}}</ref> However, in later years Batman fans began pointing out that a "Lt. Bullock" appeared in three panels of ''[[Detective Comics]]'' #441 (1974), written by [[Archie Goodwin (comics)|Archie Goodwin]], pencilled by [[Howard Chaykin]], and published almost a decade before. Moench admitted that he must have read this comic because he is an Archie Goodwin fan, but denied that Harvey Bullock is the same character. He argued that it is unlikely that he drew on Goodwin's Lt. Bullock even unconsciously, since there are discrepancies of both personality and continuity between his character and Goodwin's, and he distinctly remembers taking the name "Bullock" from guitarist [[Hiram Bullock]].<ref name="back91"/> Archie Goodwin is legally Harvey Bullock's sole creator; Moench said he decided not to contest this because he did not want to make a case against Goodwin's widow Anne Goodwin, whom he considers a friend.<ref name="back91"/>


Following the conclusion of the Hamilton Hill storyline, Moench decided he enjoyed writing Harvey Bullock enough to keep him on as a supporting character, which necessitated some softening of his original characterization as a corrupt cop.<ref name="back91"/> Bullock was one of several Batman supporting cast members swept out of the Batman family of titles when [[Denny O'Neil]] became the Batman editor in 1986, but in 1987 writer [[Paul Kupperberg]] brought him into the ''[[Vigilante (comics)|Vigilante]]'' cast. Kupperberg recalled, "Harvey Bullock was a character very much in my wheelhouse, a wise-cracking loudmouth with a [[Brooklyn accent]] and a problem with authority, although he wasn't originally intended to be a permanent member of the ''Vigilante'' cast. He was brought in for a guest-shot, as a character to help Vigilante's handler, [[Harry Stein (comics)|Harry Stein]], grease the wheels in Gotham City for them on whatever case they were on. I had fun writing him, and the interaction between Harvey and Harry Stein, another slob with his own way of doing things, clicked. I don't think they were using him much, if at all, in the Batman books by then, so we got permission from the Bat-office to have the character on semi-permanent loan for ''Vigilante'' and its successor title, ''[[Checkmate (comics)|Checkmate]]''."<ref name="back91"/>
Following the conclusion of the Hamilton Hill storyline, Moench decided he enjoyed writing Harvey Bullock enough to keep him on as a supporting character, which necessitated some softening of his original characterization as a corrupt cop.<ref name="back91"/> Bullock was one of several Batman supporting cast members swept out of the Batman family of titles when [[Denny O'Neil]] became the Batman editor in 1986, but in 1987 writer [[Paul Kupperberg]] brought him into the ''[[Vigilante (comics)|Vigilante]]'' cast. Kupperberg recalled, "Harvey Bullock was a character very much in my wheelhouse, a wise-cracking loudmouth with a [[Brooklyn accent]] and a problem with authority, although he wasn't originally intended to be a permanent member of the ''Vigilante'' cast. He was brought in for a guest-shot, as a character to help Vigilante's handler, [[Harry Stein (comics)|Harry Stein]], grease the wheels in Gotham City for them on whatever case they were on. I had fun writing him, and the interaction between Harvey and Harry Stein, another slob with his own way of doing things, clicked. I don't think they were using him much, if at all, in the Batman books by then, so we got permission from the Bat-office to have the character on semi-permanent loan for ''Vigilante'' and its successor title, ''[[Checkmate (comics)|Checkmate]]''."<ref name="back91"/>


==Fictional character biography==
==Fictional character biography==
Prior to the 1985–1986 DC maxi-series ''[[Crisis on Infinite Earths]]'', Bullock was a crooked police detective under instructions from [[Gotham City]]'s Mayor [[Hamilton Hill (comics)|Hamilton Hill]] to sabotage [[James Gordon (comics)|Commissioner Gordon]]'s career<ref name="dc-ency"/> when he is formally re-introduced in ''Batman'' #361 (July 1983), in the story entitled "The Most Successful Species", written by Doug Moench and penciled by Don Newton. His method of doing so was to pretend to be exceedingly clumsy, thereby spoiling whatever Gordon was trying to do, seemingly accidentally. After inadvertently giving Gordon a [[heart attack]], however, Bullock turns over a new leaf.<ref>''Batman'' #364, and ''Detective Comics'' #531-532 (both 1983)</ref> His character later develops into a well-meaning cop who (probably) ''was'' exceedingly clumsy, similar to the later animated version. He also forms a close bond with [[Jason Todd|Robin]], based initially on their mutual love of old movies. Subsequent to this, he is a Bishop in the spy organization [[Checkmate (comics)|Checkmate]].
Prior to the 1985–1986 DC maxi-series ''[[Crisis on Infinite Earths]]'', Bullock was a crooked police detective under instructions from [[Gotham City]]'s Mayor Hamilton Hill to sabotage [[Jim Gordon (character)|Commissioner Gordon]]'s career<ref name="dc-ency"/> when he is formally re-introduced in ''Batman'' #361 (July 1983), in the story entitled "The Most Successful Species", written by Doug Moench and penciled by Don Newton. His method of doing so was to pretend to be exceedingly clumsy, thereby spoiling whatever Gordon was trying to do, seemingly accidentally. After inadvertently giving Gordon a [[heart attack]], however, Bullock turns over a new leaf.<ref>''Batman'' #364, and ''Detective Comics'' #531-532 (both 1983)</ref> His character later develops into a well-meaning cop who (probably) was exceedingly clumsy, similar to the later animated version. He also forms a close bond with [[Jason Todd|Robin]], based initially on their mutual love of old movies. Subsequent to this, he is a Bishop in the spy organization [[Checkmate (comics)|Checkmate]].


===Post-''Crisis''===
===Post-''Crisis''===
Line 34: Line 34:


===Made detective===
===Made detective===
Several years later, Bullock is made detective. He again works closely with Gordon, as part of a small crew of people Gordon knows he can trust. This group includes [[Maggie Sawyer]], [[Harvey Dent]], and Detective Cohen as they try to bring down [[Sal Maroni]]. Though Gordon knows of and has recordings of Bullock's brutality against suspects, he brings him in because the man has never accepted bribes. The events surrounding this squad work around the events of ''[[Batman: The Long Halloween]]''. Bullock and the group are then joined by [[Crispus Allen]], and together they take down a gathering of Gotham's "freaks", such as the Joker, Clayface and Scarecrow.<ref>''Two Face: Year One'' #1-2 (September–October 2008)</ref> Later Bullock is partnered with [[Renee Montoya]] and they both become very loyal to each other. For a time Bullock works with the international spy agency Checkmate.<ref>''Checkmate'' #1 (April 1988)</ref> They confront threats ranging from counterfeiters to cult-terrorists. He has a rocky relationship with those above him, such as defying intelligence expert [[Amanda Waller]] over the proposed murder of heroic vigilante Black Thorn.<ref>''Checkmate'' #8 (November 1988)</ref>
Several years later, Bullock is made detective. He again works closely with Gordon, as part of a small crew of people Gordon knows he can trust. This group includes [[Maggie Sawyer]], [[Two-Face|Harvey Dent]], and Detective Cohen as they try to bring down [[Sal Maroni]]. Though Gordon knows of and has recordings of Bullock's brutality against suspects, he brings him in because the man has never accepted bribes. The events surrounding this squad work around the events of ''[[Batman: The Long Halloween]]''. Bullock and the group are then joined by [[Crispus Allen]], and together they take down a gathering of Gotham's "freaks", such as the Joker, Clayface and Scarecrow.<ref>''Two Face: Year One'' #1-2 (September–October 2008)</ref> Later Bullock is partnered with [[Renee Montoya]] and they both become very loyal to each other. For a time Bullock works with the international spy agency Checkmate.<ref>''Checkmate'' #1 (April 1988)</ref> They confront threats ranging from counterfeiters to cult-terrorists. He has a rocky relationship with those above him, such as defying intelligence expert [[Amanda Waller]] over the proposed murder of heroic vigilante Black Thorn.<ref>''Checkmate'' #8 (November 1988)</ref>


Bullock also gained his own [[story arc]], "A Bullet for Bullock" by [[Chuck Dixon]]. The story is about someone trying to kill him, which was also adapted into an episode for ''[[Batman: The Animated Series]]''.
Bullock also gained his own [[story arc]], "A Bullet for Bullock" by [[Chuck Dixon]]. The story is about someone trying to kill him, which was also adapted into an episode for ''[[Batman: The Animated Series]]''.


Bullock is on the front lines during the "Knightfall" storyline when Arkham empties and its inmates riot through the streets. Bullock takes control when Riddler takes an entire talk show hostage.<ref>''Detective Comics'' #662 (June 1993)</ref> He is almost obliterated by a bomb planted in the mayor's mansion; he is saved at the last second by Batman.<ref>''Batman'' #496 (July 1993)</ref>
Bullock is on the front lines during the "[[Batman: Knightfall|Knightfall]]" storyline when Arkham empties and its inmates riot through the streets. Bullock takes control when Riddler takes an entire talk show hostage.<ref>''Detective Comics'' #662 (June 1993)</ref> He is almost obliterated by a bomb planted in the mayor's mansion; he is saved at the last second by Batman.<ref>''Batman'' #496 (July 1993)</ref>


During the "Trioka" arc, Bullock is badly injured during a confrontation with the [[KGBeast]], who has gained control of a small [[nuclear weapon]]. Robin and several members of the Gotham City Police Department brave a burning chemical plant, partly to save his life. Bullock almost dies during this incident, but is saved by [[CPR]] administered by Robin. Mackenzie "Hardback" Bock, a newcomer to the force, becomes involved, helping Robin carry Harvey out of harm's way. The nuclear bomb is then neutralized by Batman.
During the "Trioka" arc, Bullock is badly injured during a confrontation with the [[KGBeast]], who has gained control of a small [[nuclear weapon]]. Robin and several members of the Gotham City Police Department brave a burning chemical plant, partly to save his life. Bullock almost dies during this incident, but is saved by [[CPR]] administered by Robin. Mackenzie "Hardback" Bock, a newcomer to the force, becomes involved, helping Robin carry Harvey out of harm's way. The nuclear bomb is then neutralized by Batman.
Line 63: Line 63:


===The New 52===
===The New 52===
Bullock is sent to meet and greet [[Jason Bard]], whom Gordon has recruited for the police force. Bullock is shown to be on friendly terms with fellow Gotham cop [[Maggie Sawyer]]. Hours later, Bard arrests James Gordon for manslaughter after a train crash.<ref>''Batman Eternal'' #1 (June 2014)</ref>
Bullock is sent to meet and greet [[Jason Bard]], whom Gordon has recruited for the police force. Bullock is shown to be on friendly terms with Maggie Sawyer. Hours later, Bard arrests James Gordon for manslaughter after a train crash.<ref>''Batman Eternal'' #1 (June 2014)</ref>


During the investigation into a long-running series of police murders, Bullock is kidnapped and replaced by a female killer known as Jane Doe. Jane is obsessed with the figurative and literal taking of other people's lives. That it was only Batman who noticed Bullock had been replaced causes the detective great distress.<ref>''Detective Comics'' (vol. 2) #18-22 (May–September 2013)</ref>
During the investigation into a long-running series of police murders, Bullock is kidnapped and replaced by a female killer known as Jane Doe. Jane is obsessed with the figurative and literal taking of other people's lives. That it was only Batman who noticed Bullock had been replaced causes the detective great distress.<ref>''Detective Comics'' (vol. 2) #18-22 (May–September 2013)</ref>


Harvey assists in citywide riots by helping James Gordon, now exonerated thanks to Batgirl, wire the entire city to display the Bat-signal. This raises the morale of the citizens and calms much of the panic.<ref>''Batman Eternal'' #52 (April 2015)</ref>
Harvey assists in citywide riots by helping James Gordon, now exonerated thanks to Batgirl, wire the city to display the Bat-signal. This raises the morale of the citizens and calms much of the panic.<ref>''Batman Eternal'' #52 (April 2015)</ref>


===DC Rebirth===
===DC Rebirth===
In the [[DC Rebirth]] reboot universe, Bullock is partnered with Commissioner Gordon when he attempts to raid [[Wayne Manor]]. Bullock tries to convince Gordon not to go through with it, but is unable to.<ref>''All-Star Batman'' #2</ref> Bullock goes on to cameo several times, usually alongside Gordon <ref>''Detective Comics'', ''Batman'' #6</ref> In the alternate future where Tim Drake becomes the Batman, Bullock is seen as an aid to Commissioner Montoya in the old section of the city.<ref>''Batwoman'' #6</ref> In the aftermath of the city of Bane. Harvey Bullock is filling as commissioner of Gotham City Police department after Jim Gordon who disappeared after being infected by a virus from the Batman Who Laughs.
In the [[DC Rebirth]] reboot universe, Bullock is partnered with Commissioner Gordon when he attempts to raid [[Wayne Manor]]. Bullock tries to convince Gordon not to go through with it, but is unable to.<ref>''All-Star Batman'' #2</ref> Bullock goes on to cameo several times, usually alongside Gordon <ref>''Detective Comics'', ''Batman'' #6</ref> In the alternate future where Tim Drake becomes the Batman, Bullock is seen as an aid to Commissioner Montoya in the old section of the city.<ref>''Batwoman'' #6</ref> In the aftermath of Bane's attack on the city, Harvey Bullock is filling as commissioner of Gotham City Police department after Jim Gordon who disappeared after being infected by a virus from the [[Batman Who Laughs]].


==Other versions==
==Other versions==


* An alternate universe variant of Harvey Bullock appears in ''[[Whom Gods Destroy (comics)|Whom Gods Destroy]]''. This version is a [[United States Secret Service|Secret Service]] agent.<ref>''[[Whom Gods Destroy (comics)|Whom Gods Destroy]]'' #3 (1997). DC Comics.</ref>
===''Batman Adventures''===
* An alternate universe variant of Harvey Bullock who became Gotham's police commissioner following Gordon's death appears in ''[[JLA: The Nail]]''.<ref>''JLA: The Nail'' #1 (August 1998). DC Comics.</ref>
In the comic book ''[[The Batman Adventures]]'', Bullock is forced to resign after [[Penguin (comics)|Oswald Cobblepot]] becomes mayor, thanks to [[Temple Fugate]] rigging the elections to exact revenge on Mayor Hill. As with the DCU version, he becomes a private detective.
* An alternate universe variant of Harvey Bullock appears in the [[Flashpoint (comics)|Flashpoint]] storyline.<ref>''Flashpoint: Batman - Knight of Vengeance'' #2 (July 2011). Marvel Comics.</ref>

* A younger, alternate universe variant of Harvey Bullock appears in ''[[Batman: Earth One]]''. This version is the former star of the [[reality show]] ''Hollywood Detectives''.<ref>''Batman: Earth One'' (July 2012)</ref><ref>''Batman: Earth One Volume Two'' (May 2015)</ref>
===''Earth One''===
* The [[Earth-3]] counterpart of Harvey Bullock is a servant of [[Owlman (character)|Owlman]].<ref>''Justice League'' (vol. 2) #23.4 (November 2013) DC Comics.</ref> In the "[[Infinite Frontier]]" reboot, Bullock was the one who killed Thomas, Martha and Bruce Wayne while Thomas Wayne Jr. survives and eventually becomes Owlman.<ref>''Crime Syndicate'' #2. DC Comics.</ref>
The ''[[Batman: Earth One]]'' graphic novel features a very different version of the Bullock character. This Bullock is young, fit, and handsome, the former star of a [[reality show]] called ''Hollywood Detectives''. He comes to Gotham to solve the old Wayne Murder case. Despite his flashy exterior, he is a well-trained and highly qualified police officer with good morals. However, he is not averse of police brutality if situations force him into it to get a job done. He is partnered with James Gordon, who he at first believes is taking bribes. He later finds out that the real reason Gordon doesn't stop crimes is because he fears that the mob will kill his daughter like they allegedly killed his wife. When Barbara Gordon is kidnapped by a murderer known as the Birthday Boy, the two go to rescue her, and they manage to do it with Batman's help. However, finding the bodies of Birthday Boy's previous victims breaks Bullock and he becomes an alcoholic.<ref>''Batman: Earth One'' (July 2012)</ref> As of ''Volume Two,'' Bullock begin to recover his alcoholism after being urged from Gordon that he needs Bullock as an ally.<ref>''Batman: Earth One Volume Two'' (May 2015)</ref>
* Harvey Bullock appears in ''Batman '89''.

===''Earth-Three''===
In Earth-Three, a universe where all heroes are villains, Harvey's counterpart appears in ''Justice League'' #24 in [[Outsider (comics)|Outsider]]'s flashback. Harvey Bullock of Earth-Three is still a member of Gotham Police, but he is a corrupt cop. Like the rest of GCPD of this universe, he works under Owlman. He is seen with the Earth-Three version of Renee Montoya in an alleyway pulling their guns out and stopping a family who was out watching a movie nearby. They demand the family to empty out their purses and wallets "in the name of the law". The family however are also armed with guns and begin firing. Harvey then requests backup but it is denied as the rest of the police are currently helping Owlman track down the Joker (who is a hero in this universe). Renee and Bullock are then run over by Outsider despite them being allies since the Outsider was trying his best to follow Owlman. It is unclear whether Outsider did not see them or he simply did not care since Gotham PD worked under Owlman and he believed them to be expendable.<ref>''Justice League'' (vol. 2) #23.4 (November 2013) DC Comics.</ref>

In the "[[Infinite Frontier]]" reboot, Harvey Bullock was the one who killed Thomas, Martha and Bruce Wayne while Thomas Wayne Jr. survives and eventually becomes Owlman. In 2012 Owlman captured Bullock, intending to hand him over to the police to serve a life sentence in prison. Bullock recognizes Owlman as Thomas Wayne Jr. and tries to bargain for his life by revealing that his parents were criminals who worked for Boss Gordon and tried to usurp his empire, killing his son in the process. Bullock was ordered to kill the Waynes in retribution. After learning the truth, Owlman became nihilistic and renounced his code, dropping Bullock from the top of Wayne Tower to his death.<ref>''Crime Syndicate'' #2. DC Comics.</ref>

===''Flashpoint''===
In the ''[[Flashpoint (comics)|Flashpoint]]'' universe, Harvey Bullock is an alcoholic who patronizes Montoya's bar. Batman interrogates him for information on the Joker.<ref>''Flashpoint: Batman - Knight of Vengeance'' #2 (July 2011). Marvel Comics.</ref>

===''Injustice: Gods Among Us''===
In the alternate reality of ''[[Injustice: Gods Among Us]]'' Superman has subtly taken over the planet and violently taken over Gotham City. Harvey Bullock is brutally beaten by a 'stormtrooper' (a super-soldier working for the Regime) for trying to show his badge. In response to Superman's various crimes, Harvey and many of Gotham's police take stolen Krytptonian technology and gain super-powers, putting them on Superman's level and thus starting a war to take back their city. In "Year Three," Bullock quits the Insurgency when they become affiliated with [[Doctor Fate]] and [[John Constantine]], claiming that this is now out of his league. [[Detective Chimp]] though tells him that he's a good cop and that they need him to help take down [[Superman]], but before Harvey makes his decision, [[Spectre (DC Comics character)|The Spectre]] bursts through the door and kills Harvey by obliterating him and his skeletal remains.<ref>''Injustice: Gods Among Us'' Year 2. DC Comics.</ref>

===''JLA: The Nail''===
In the [[Elseworlds]] series ''[[JLA: The Nail]]'', Bullock is shown to be Gotham's Commissioner of Police. (Reference is made to Gordon having been murdered, but nothing specific is known about his death.) Bullock is even shown defending Batman against reporters in one panel, an opposite of mainstream Bullock.<ref>''JLA: The Nail'' #1 (August 1998). DC Comics.</ref>

===''Whom Gods Destroy''===
In this universe, Bullock and Montoya are two Secret Service agents assigned to Presidential detail.<ref>''[[Whom Gods Destroy (comics)|Whom Gods Destroy]]'' #3 (1997). DC Comics.</ref>

===''Batman '89''===
Bullock is set to appear alongside Commissioner Gordon in the ''Batman '89'' comic book series, a canonical comic continuation of Tim Burton's ''Batman'' films, with screenwriter [[Sam Hamm]] returning to write the script with Joe Quinones providing the comic's art. Bullock was initially included in Hamm's original script for ''[[Batman Returns]]'', but the character was eventually discarded.


==In other media==
==In other media==
===Television===
===Television===
[[File:Donal Logue at NY PaleyFest 2014 for Gotham.jpg|thumb|200px|right|[[Donal Logue]], who portrays Harvey Bullock in ''[[Gotham (TV series)|Gotham]]'']]
====Live-action====
* Harvey Bullock appears in series set in the [[DC Animated Universe]] (DCAU), voiced by [[Robert Costanzo]].<ref name="btva">{{cite news |title=Detective Harvey Bullock Voices (Batman) |url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/characters/Batman/Detective-Harvey-Bullock/ |access-date=July 5, 2023 |postscript=. A green check mark indicates that a role has been confirmed using a screenshot (or collage of screenshots) of a title's list of voice actors and their respective characters found in its credits or other reliable sources of information.}}</ref> This version displays a penchant for doughnuts and coffee instead of drinking and smoking in line with police stereotypes. Additionally, he initially distrusts Batman before later developing a grudging respect for him and often uses dubious means to ensure that justice is served. Following his introduction in ''[[Batman: The Animated Series]]'', Bullock appears in ''[[The New Batman Adventures]]'', ''[[Superman: The Animated Series]]'', and ''[[Static Shock]]''.
[[File:Donal Logue at NY PaleyFest 2014 for Gotham.jpg|thumb|200px|right|[[Donal Logue]] portrays the character in his first live-action appearance.]]
* Harvey Bullock makes a non-speaking appearance in the ''[[Young Justice]]'' episode "Triptych".<ref name="btva" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Weisman |first=Greg |author-link=Greg Weisman |date=August 5, 2019 |title=Search Ask Greg: Gargoyles: Station Eight |url=https://www.s8.org/gargoyles/askgreg/search.php?qid=24780 |access-date=July 6, 2024 |website=www.s8.org}}</ref>
* Harvey Bullock made his first live-action appearance in the [[Fox Broadcasting Company|Fox]] series ''[[Gotham (TV series)|Gotham]]'', portrayed by [[Donal Logue]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://hitfix.com/the-fien-print/terriers-star-officially-lands-key-gotham-role |title='Terriers' star officially lands key 'Gotham' role |publisher=TV Guide |date=2014-02-12 |access-date=February 12, 2014}}</ref> This version is [[Jim Gordon (Gotham)|Jim Gordon]]'s partner, who introduces him to Gotham's seedy underbelly. He is portrayed as willing to bend - and sometimes break - the law to get results. He has ties to organized crime bosses [[Carmine Falcone]] and [[Fish Mooney]], with whom he trades police favors in exchange for information. It is revealed that GCPD's corrupt commissioner, [[Gillian B. Loeb]], is blackmailing him; years earlier, Bullock's sergeant had coerced him into killing a mobster as a favor for the Falcone Crime Family, and Loeb uses that information to bend Bullock to his will. Gordon eventually blackmails Loeb into giving him Bullock's file.<ref>{{Cite episode|title=Everyone Has a Cobblepot|episode-link=Gotham (season 1)#ep18|series=Gotham (TV series)|series-link=Gotham (TV series)|network=Fox|airdate= March 2, 2015|season=1|number=18}}</ref> In Season 2, Bullock quits the police force after Loeb demotes him, stops drinking, and becomes a bartender.<ref>{{Cite episode|title=Damned If You Do...|series=Gotham (TV series)|series-link=Gotham (TV series)|network=Fox|airdate= September 21, 2015|season=2|number=1}}</ref> In the following episode, however, he returns to the force after a gang of insane criminals calling themselves "The Maniax" surfaces in Gotham.<ref>{{Cite episode|title=Knock, Knock|series=Gotham (TV series)|series-link=Gotham (TV series)|network=Fox|airdate= September 29, 2015|season=2|number=1}}</ref> When Gordon is framed for murder by Edward Nygma, Bullock helps him escape from Blackgate Penitentiary with Carmine Falcone's help and clear his name. At the end of the second season, he is appointed as acting captain of the GCPD.<ref>{{Cite episode|title=Transference|series=Gotham (TV series)|series-link=Gotham (TV series)|network=Fox|airdate= May 23, 2016|season=2|number=22}}</ref> In the third season, GCPD Captain Nathaniel Barnes is put in Arkham after exposure to [[Mad Hatter (DC Comics)|Jervis Tetch]]'s sister's blood turns him into a murderous vigilante; Bullock is made acting captain again in his absence.<ref>{{Cite episode|title=The Executioner|series=Gotham (TV series)|series-link=Gotham (TV series)|network=Fox|airdate= November 14, 2016|season=3|number=9}}</ref> In the fourth season, Gordon discovers that Bullock is on [[Oswald Cobblepot (Gotham)|Oswald Cobblepot]]'s payroll due to his debts and relieves him of his duties after Gordon becomes the new Captain. In the fifth season, Bullock remains in Gotham despite the U.S. government declaring the city a No Man's Land after its bridges and power plant are destroyed. Bullock aids Gordon and the GCPD by reclaiming the city from super villains and gangs. After the city rejoins the United States, he attends Gordon's promotion ceremony to GCPD Commissioner.
* [[Harvey Bullock (Gotham)|Harvey Bullock]] appears in ''[[Gotham (TV series)|Gotham]]'', portrayed by [[Donal Logue]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://hitfix.com/the-fien-print/terriers-star-officially-lands-key-gotham-role |title='Terriers' star officially lands key 'Gotham' role |publisher=TV Guide |date=2014-02-12 |access-date=February 12, 2014}}</ref> This version is [[Jim Gordon (Gotham)|Jim Gordon]]'s partner who is willing to bend, sometimes break, the rules to get results and has ties to organized crime bosses such as [[Carmine Falcone]], [[Fish Mooney]], and [[Oswald Cobblepot (Gotham)|Oswald Cobblepot]], with whom he trades police favors in exchange for information.<ref>{{Cite episode|title=Everyone Has a Cobblepot|episode-link=Gotham (season 1)#ep18|series=Gotham (TV series)|series-link=Gotham (TV series)|network=Fox|airdate= March 2, 2015|season=1|number=18}}</ref> In the [[Gotham season 2|second season]], Bullock temporarily quits the GCPD, stops drinking, and becomes a bartender until the Maniax gang resurface, forcing him to return.<ref>{{Cite episode|title=Damned If You Do...|series=Gotham (TV series)|series-link=Gotham (TV series)|network=Fox|airdate= September 21, 2015|season=2|number=1}}</ref><ref>{{Cite episode|title=Knock, Knock|series=Gotham (TV series)|series-link=Gotham (TV series)|network=Fox|airdate= September 29, 2015|season=2|number=1}}</ref> He is later appointed acting captain of the GCPD in the second season finale and the [[Gotham season 3|third season]] until Gordon discovers his dealings with Cobblepot and takes Bullock's place in the [[Gotham season 4|fourth season]].<ref>{{Cite episode|title=Transference|series=Gotham (TV series)|series-link=Gotham (TV series)|network=Fox|airdate= May 23, 2016|season=2|number=22}}</ref><ref>{{Cite episode|title=The Executioner|series=Gotham (TV series)|series-link=Gotham (TV series)|network=Fox|airdate= November 14, 2016|season=3|number=9}}</ref>

* Harvey Bullock appears in ''[[Batman: Caped Crusader]]'', voiced by [[John DiMaggio]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Spry |first=Jeff |date=July 19, 2024 |title=Holy Noirish Comeback, Batman! Bruce Timm and James Tucker Lift the Cowl Over 'Batman: Caped Crusader' |url=https://www.animationmagazine.net/2024/07/holy-noirish-comeback-batman-bruce-timm-and-james-tucker-lift-the-cowl-over-batman-caped-crusader/ |access-date=July 22, 2024 |website=Animation Magazine}}</ref><ref name="btva" /> This version is a corrupt police detective and partner of [[Arnold Flass]].
====Animated====
=====DC Animated Universe=====
Detective Harvey Bullock appears in series set in the [[DC Animated Universe]] (DCAU), voiced by [[Robert Costanzo]].
* Bullock appears in ''[[Batman: The Animated Series]]''. This version is not shown to drink or smoke, and has a penchant for doughnuts and coffee in line with police stereotypes. Additionally, he initially distrusts Batman before later developing a grudging respect for him, and often uses dubious means to ensure that justice is served.
* Bullock appears in ''[[The New Batman Adventures]]''.
* Bullock makes guest appearances in the ''[[Superman: The Animated Series]]'' episodes "World's Finest" and "Knight Time".
* Bullock appears in the ''[[Static Shock]]'' episode "Hard as Nails".


===Film===
===Film===
* A character similar to Harvey Bullock named '''Lt. Maxwell Eckhardt''' appears in ''[[Batman (1989 film)|Batman]]'' (1989), portrayed by [[William Hootkins]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://illgetdrivethru.com/2020/04/17/is-eckhardt-supposed-to-be-harvey-bullock-in-batman-89/ | title=Is Eckhardt supposed to be Harvey Bullock in Batman '89? | date=17 April 2020 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://screenrant.com/batman-89-harvey-bullock-reveal-dc-comics/ | title=Batman '89 Artist Shares Image of Series' First New Character | website=[[Screen Rant]] | date=13 June 2021 }}</ref>
* In [[Sam Hamm]]'s original script for ''[[Batman Returns]]'', Bullock was originally supposed to appear as the companion of [[James Gordon (comics)|Commissioner Gordon]].<ref>[http://www.dailyscript.com/scripts/batman-returns_unproduced.html Batman 2 script by Sam Hamm<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> However, he was removed from the script after [[Tim Burton]] agreed to return as director.
* In [[Sam Hamm]]'s original script for ''[[Batman Returns]]'', Bullock was intended to appear as [[Jim Gordon (character)|Commissioner Gordon]]'s companion.<ref>[http://www.dailyscript.com/scripts/batman-returns_unproduced.html Batman 2 script by Sam Hamm<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> However, he was removed from the script after [[Tim Burton]] signed on to direct.
* Harvey Bullock appears in the DCAU film ''[[Batman: Mask of the Phantasm]]'', voiced again by Robert Costanzo.
* Harvey Bullock appears in the DCAU film ''[[Batman & Mr. Freeze: SubZero]]'', voiced again by Robert Costanzo.
* The DCAU incarnation of Harvey Bullock appears in ''[[Batman: Mask of the Phantasm]]'', voiced again by Robert Costanzo.<ref name="btva" />
* Harvey Bullock appears in the DCAU film ''[[Batman: Mystery of the Batwoman]]'', voiced again by Robert Costanzo.
* The DCAU incarnation of Harvey Bullock appears in ''[[Batman & Mr. Freeze: SubZero]]'', voiced again by Robert Costanzo.<ref name="btva" />
* Harvey Bullock appears in ''[[Batman: The Killing Joke (film)|Batman: The Killing Joke]]'', voiced by [[Robin Atkin Downes]].
* The DCAU incarnation of Harvey Bullock appears in ''[[Batman: Mystery of the Batwoman]]'', voiced again by Robert Costanzo.<ref name="btva" />
* Harvey Bullock appears in ''[[Scooby-Doo! & Batman: The Brave and the Bold]]'', voiced by [[Fred Tatasciore]].
* Harvey Bullock appears in ''[[Batman: The Killing Joke (film)|Batman: The Killing Joke]]'', voiced by [[Robin Atkin Downes]].<ref name="btva" />
* A [[Victorian era]] version of Harvey Bullock appears in ''[[Batman: Gotham by Gaslight]]'', voiced by [[John DiMaggio]].
* Harvey Bullock appears in ''[[Scooby-Doo! & Batman: The Brave and the Bold]]'', voiced by [[Fred Tatasciore]].<ref name="btva" />
* A [[Victorian era]]-inspired alternate universe variant of Harvey Bullock appears in ''[[Batman: Gotham by Gaslight]]'', voiced by John DiMaggio.<ref name="btva" />


===Video games===
===Video games===
* Harvey Bullock makes a non-speaking appearance in ''[[The Adventures of Batman & Robin (video game)|The Adventures of Batman & Robin]]''.
* Harvey Bullock makes a non-speaking appearance in ''[[The Adventures of Batman & Robin (video game)|The Adventures of Batman & Robin]]''.
* Harvey Bullock appears in ''[[Batman: Chaos in Gotham]]''.
* Harvey Bullock appears in ''[[Batman: Chaos in Gotham]]''.
* Harvey Bullock appears in ''[[Batman: Dark Tomorrow]]'', voiced by Danny Mastrogiorgio.<ref name="btva" />
* Harvey Bullock appears in ''[[Batman: Dark Tomorrow]]'', voiced by [[Danny Mastrogiorgio]].<ref name="btva">{{cite news|url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/characters/Batman/Detective-Harvey-Bullock/|title=Detective Harvey Bullock Voices (Batman) |access-date=2023-07-05 |postscript=. A green check mark indicates that a role has been confirmed using a screenshot (or collage of screenshots) of a title's list of voice actors and their respective characters found in its opening and/or closing credits and/or other reliable sources of information.}}</ref>
* Harvey Bullock appears as a non-playable character in ''[[DC Universe Online]]'', voiced by [[Edwin Neal]].<ref name="btva" />
* Harvey Bullock appears as a non-playable character in ''[[DC Universe Online]]'', voiced by [[Edwin Neal]].<ref name="btva" />
* Harvey Bullock appears in ''[[Batman: Arkham Origins]]'', voiced again by Robert Costanzo. This version was assigned to be Gordon's partner by [[Gillian B. Loeb]].
* Harvey Bullock appears in ''[[Batman: Arkham Origins]]'', voiced again by Robert Costanzo.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Clow |first=Chris |date=November 2, 2013 |title=Game Review: 'Batman: Arkham Origins,' Plus Collector's Edition Extras |url=http://geeknation.com/game-review-batman-arkham-origins-plus-collectors-edition-extras/ |access-date=July 6, 2024 |archive-date=November 2, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131102145745/http://geeknation.com/game-review-batman-arkham-origins-plus-collectors-edition-extras/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> This version was assigned to serve as Gordon's partner by [[Gillian B. Loeb]].
* Harvey Bullock appears as a character summon in ''[[Scribblenauts Unmasked: A DC Comics Adventure]]''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Eisen |first=Andrew |date=October 4, 2013 |title=DC Characters and Objects - ''Scribblenauts Unmasked'' Guide |url=https://www.ign.com/wikis/scribblenauts-unmasked/DC_Characters_and_Objects |access-date=July 6, 2024 |website=IGN}}</ref>
* Harvey Bullock appears in ''[[Batman: The Enemy Within]]'', voiced by [[Keith Szarabajka]].
*Harvey Bullock appears as a non-playable character in ''[[Lego DC Super-Villains]]''.
* Harvey Bullock appears in ''[[Batman: The Enemy Within]]'', voiced by [[Keith Szarabajka]].<ref name="btva" />
* Harvey Bullock appears as a non-playable character in ''[[Lego DC Super-Villains]]''.


===Radio===
=== Miscellaneous ===
* Harvey Bullock appears in the radio adaptation of ''[[Batman: Knightfall]]'', Bullock was portrayed and voiced by Eric Meyers.
* Harvey Bullock appears in the radio adaptation of ''[[Batman: Knightfall]]'', voiced by Eric Meyers.
* Harvey Bullock appears in ''[[The Batman Adventures]]''.
* Harvey Bullock appears in the ''[[Injustice: Gods Among Us (comics)|Injustice: Gods Among Us: Year Two]]''. This version is a member of Batman's Insurgency who is later killed by the [[Mister Mxyzptlk|Spectre]].<ref>''Injustice: Gods Among Us: Year Two'' DC Comics.</ref>


==See also==
==See also==
Line 156: Line 135:
[[Category:Comics characters introduced in 1974]]
[[Category:Comics characters introduced in 1974]]
[[Category:DC Comics television characters]]
[[Category:DC Comics television characters]]
[[Category:Fictional American detectives]]
[[Category:Fictional American police detectives]]
[[Category:Fictional American police detectives]]
[[Category:Fictional alcohol abusers]]
[[Category:Fictional alcohol abusers]]
[[Category:Gotham City Police Department officers]]
[[Category:Gotham City Police Department officers]]
[[Category:Batman: Arkham characters]]

Revision as of 21:14, 11 December 2024

Harvey Bullock
Harvey Bullock as depicted in The Other History of the DC Universe #4 (May 2021).
Art by Giuseppe Camuncoli.
Publication information
PublisherDC Comics
First appearance
  • As Lieutenant Bullock:
  • Detective Comics #441 (June 1974)
  • As Detective Harvey Bullock:
  • Batman #361 (July 1983)
Created by
In-story information
Full nameHarvey Bullock
Team affiliationsGCPD
Checkmate
Supporting character ofBatman
AbilitiesTrained detective

Harvey Bullock (/ˈbʊlək/) is a fictional detective appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics, commonly in association with the superhero Batman.[1] The character first appeared in Detective Comics #441 (June 1974) and was created by Archie Goodwin and Howard Chaykin.[2] In animation, he appeared throughout the DC Animated Universe, voiced by Robert Costanzo. He debuted in live-action in 2014 on Fox's television series Gotham, portrayed by Donal Logue.

Publication history

There is some ambiguity concerning the character's origins. Writer Doug Moench and artist Don Newton introduced Harvey Bullock in Batman #361 (July 1983) as a device to resolve the ongoing plotline with Gotham City's corrupt mayor Hamilton Hill, and subsequent Who's Who in the DC Universe entries acknowledged this as the new Bullock's first appearance.[3] However, in later years Batman fans began pointing out that a "Lt. Bullock" appeared in three panels of Detective Comics #441 (1974), written by Archie Goodwin, pencilled by Howard Chaykin, and published almost a decade before. Moench admitted that he must have read this comic because he is an Archie Goodwin fan, but denied that Harvey Bullock is the same character. He argued that it is unlikely that he drew on Goodwin's Lt. Bullock even unconsciously, since there are discrepancies of both personality and continuity between his character and Goodwin's, and he distinctly remembers taking the name "Bullock" from guitarist Hiram Bullock.[3] Archie Goodwin is legally Harvey Bullock's sole creator; Moench said he decided not to contest this because he did not want to make a case against Goodwin's widow Anne Goodwin, whom he considers a friend.[3]

Following the conclusion of the Hamilton Hill storyline, Moench decided he enjoyed writing Harvey Bullock enough to keep him on as a supporting character, which necessitated some softening of his original characterization as a corrupt cop.[3] Bullock was one of several Batman supporting cast members swept out of the Batman family of titles when Denny O'Neil became the Batman editor in 1986, but in 1987 writer Paul Kupperberg brought him into the Vigilante cast. Kupperberg recalled, "Harvey Bullock was a character very much in my wheelhouse, a wise-cracking loudmouth with a Brooklyn accent and a problem with authority, although he wasn't originally intended to be a permanent member of the Vigilante cast. He was brought in for a guest-shot, as a character to help Vigilante's handler, Harry Stein, grease the wheels in Gotham City for them on whatever case they were on. I had fun writing him, and the interaction between Harvey and Harry Stein, another slob with his own way of doing things, clicked. I don't think they were using him much, if at all, in the Batman books by then, so we got permission from the Bat-office to have the character on semi-permanent loan for Vigilante and its successor title, Checkmate."[3]

Fictional character biography

Prior to the 1985–1986 DC maxi-series Crisis on Infinite Earths, Bullock was a crooked police detective under instructions from Gotham City's Mayor Hamilton Hill to sabotage Commissioner Gordon's career[1] when he is formally re-introduced in Batman #361 (July 1983), in the story entitled "The Most Successful Species", written by Doug Moench and penciled by Don Newton. His method of doing so was to pretend to be exceedingly clumsy, thereby spoiling whatever Gordon was trying to do, seemingly accidentally. After inadvertently giving Gordon a heart attack, however, Bullock turns over a new leaf.[4] His character later develops into a well-meaning cop who (probably) was exceedingly clumsy, similar to the later animated version. He also forms a close bond with Robin, based initially on their mutual love of old movies. Subsequent to this, he is a Bishop in the spy organization Checkmate.

Post-Crisis

Following the continuity changes brought about in most of DC's comics by Crisis, Bullock is perhaps the most controversial police officer in the Gotham City Police Department. His colleagues in the Major Crimes Unit swear up and down that he is a good cop, despite his reputation for taking bribes,[5] using excessive force, and having ties to organized crime. He is not without endearing qualities, however, including a fondness for doughnuts and a hidden sentimental streak. He also has a brief relationship with a widow he meets at work.[6]

This new post-Crisis Bullock was retconned as having been loyal to Gordon from the start. Even before he is promoted to detective, he stays by Gordon during one of the Joker's rampages, saving his life. Eventually, without Batman's assistance, Bullock and Gordon stop the Joker from causing an explosion that would have leveled Gotham City. During the entire case, Bullock plays the part of the "bad cop," intimidating and threatening whoever gets in his way. At this point, Bullock still wears a regular police uniform.

Made detective

Several years later, Bullock is made detective. He again works closely with Gordon, as part of a small crew of people Gordon knows he can trust. This group includes Maggie Sawyer, Harvey Dent, and Detective Cohen as they try to bring down Sal Maroni. Though Gordon knows of and has recordings of Bullock's brutality against suspects, he brings him in because the man has never accepted bribes. The events surrounding this squad work around the events of Batman: The Long Halloween. Bullock and the group are then joined by Crispus Allen, and together they take down a gathering of Gotham's "freaks", such as the Joker, Clayface and Scarecrow.[7] Later Bullock is partnered with Renee Montoya and they both become very loyal to each other. For a time Bullock works with the international spy agency Checkmate.[8] They confront threats ranging from counterfeiters to cult-terrorists. He has a rocky relationship with those above him, such as defying intelligence expert Amanda Waller over the proposed murder of heroic vigilante Black Thorn.[9]

Bullock also gained his own story arc, "A Bullet for Bullock" by Chuck Dixon. The story is about someone trying to kill him, which was also adapted into an episode for Batman: The Animated Series.

Bullock is on the front lines during the "Knightfall" storyline when Arkham empties and its inmates riot through the streets. Bullock takes control when Riddler takes an entire talk show hostage.[10] He is almost obliterated by a bomb planted in the mayor's mansion; he is saved at the last second by Batman.[11]

During the "Trioka" arc, Bullock is badly injured during a confrontation with the KGBeast, who has gained control of a small nuclear weapon. Robin and several members of the Gotham City Police Department brave a burning chemical plant, partly to save his life. Bullock almost dies during this incident, but is saved by CPR administered by Robin. Mackenzie "Hardback" Bock, a newcomer to the force, becomes involved, helping Robin carry Harvey out of harm's way. The nuclear bomb is then neutralized by Batman.

Earthquake

In the Batman: Cataclysm storyline, Bullock is confronting Anarky in a shopping mall when an earthquake hits Gotham City. Both save their own lives by diving into a hollow art structure. Despite this, Bullock's arm is impaled by a tube of metal. He does not let this stop him, and makes his way back to the badly damaged police headquarters.

As soon as he learns Gordon is missing, he slams his arm against a wall, knocking out the bar, and institutes a search. Bullock finds and saves a rattled Gordon from the debris of his own office.[12]

A few weeks later, Gotham is shut down and closed off by the government in the incident known as No Man's Land. Bullock and several other officers, Renee included, willingly stay behind to assist Gordon. Bullock sticks by Gordon through the death of many fellow officers. When SWAT leader Billy Pettit revolts and takes even more officers with him, Bullock sticks with Gordon. Renee herself is even lost for a while due to Two-Face. In the end, efforts led by Lex Luthor re-open Gotham. Gordon, Bullock, Renee and the remaining officers (Pettit and the others had been killed) are given their jobs back. Bullock is then promoted to lieutenant and becomes the shift commander of the GCPD's Major Crimes Unit.[13]

In the "Officer Down" storyline, disgruntled former officer Jordan Rich attempts to kill Gordon. Afterwards, a vengeful Bullock reveals Rich's location to the Mafia, thereby indirectly killing the shooter. When evidence of this comes out, he resigns from the force.[14]

He then appears in the "Unresolved" story arc in Gotham Central, where he has descended into a life of alcoholism and is shown contemplating suicide.

Back on the force

As part of DC's "One Year Later" storyline, Bullock has returned to the GCPD, with the understanding that he is not allowed a single mistake. The circumstances behind this are unknown, the only clue so far being the line: "Six months since Harvey Bullock made his discoveries." Batman and Bullock have made their peace, agreeing to give each other a second chance after their past disagreements; Batman tells Bullock that he considers the ledger "erased".[1]

Bullock is seen as one of the leads against the fight of a war between unauthorized Joker and Batman gangs.[15]

Later it is established he keeps in regular communication with his mother and has two cats, one of which, Sprinkles, has cancer.[16]

While little has ever been told of Harvey's past prior to him joining the Gotham City Police Department, he himself has stated that he was once a welterweight Golden Gloves competitor and was good enough to go pro, but chose not to because he disliked the "regimented lifestyle".[17]

The New 52

Bullock is sent to meet and greet Jason Bard, whom Gordon has recruited for the police force. Bullock is shown to be on friendly terms with Maggie Sawyer. Hours later, Bard arrests James Gordon for manslaughter after a train crash.[18]

During the investigation into a long-running series of police murders, Bullock is kidnapped and replaced by a female killer known as Jane Doe. Jane is obsessed with the figurative and literal taking of other people's lives. That it was only Batman who noticed Bullock had been replaced causes the detective great distress.[19]

Harvey assists in citywide riots by helping James Gordon, now exonerated thanks to Batgirl, wire the city to display the Bat-signal. This raises the morale of the citizens and calms much of the panic.[20]

DC Rebirth

In the DC Rebirth reboot universe, Bullock is partnered with Commissioner Gordon when he attempts to raid Wayne Manor. Bullock tries to convince Gordon not to go through with it, but is unable to.[21] Bullock goes on to cameo several times, usually alongside Gordon [22] In the alternate future where Tim Drake becomes the Batman, Bullock is seen as an aid to Commissioner Montoya in the old section of the city.[23] In the aftermath of Bane's attack on the city, Harvey Bullock is filling as commissioner of Gotham City Police department after Jim Gordon who disappeared after being infected by a virus from the Batman Who Laughs.

Other versions

  • An alternate universe variant of Harvey Bullock appears in Whom Gods Destroy. This version is a Secret Service agent.[24]
  • An alternate universe variant of Harvey Bullock who became Gotham's police commissioner following Gordon's death appears in JLA: The Nail.[25]
  • An alternate universe variant of Harvey Bullock appears in the Flashpoint storyline.[26]
  • A younger, alternate universe variant of Harvey Bullock appears in Batman: Earth One. This version is the former star of the reality show Hollywood Detectives.[27][28]
  • The Earth-3 counterpart of Harvey Bullock is a servant of Owlman.[29] In the "Infinite Frontier" reboot, Bullock was the one who killed Thomas, Martha and Bruce Wayne while Thomas Wayne Jr. survives and eventually becomes Owlman.[30]
  • Harvey Bullock appears in Batman '89.

In other media

Television

Donal Logue, who portrays Harvey Bullock in Gotham

Film

Video games

Miscellaneous

See also

References

  1. ^ a b c Wallace, Dan (2008), "Sgt. Bullock", in Dougall, Alastair (ed.), The DC Comics Encyclopedia, London: Dorling Kindersley, p. 63, ISBN 978-0-7566-4119-1
  2. ^ Greenberger, Robert (2008). The Essential Batman Encyclopedia. Del Rey. pp. 68–69. ISBN 9780345501066.
  3. ^ a b c d e Wells, John (September 2016). "Bullies and Blowhards of the DC Bronze Age". Back Issue! (91). Raleigh, North Carolina: TwoMorrows Publishing: 19–22.
  4. ^ Batman #364, and Detective Comics #531-532 (both 1983)
  5. ^ Robert Greenberger. (2008). The Essential Batman Encyclopedia. Random House. ISBN 9780345501066.
  6. ^ Batman #397 (July, 1986)
  7. ^ Two Face: Year One #1-2 (September–October 2008)
  8. ^ Checkmate #1 (April 1988)
  9. ^ Checkmate #8 (November 1988)
  10. ^ Detective Comics #662 (June 1993)
  11. ^ Batman #496 (July 1993)
  12. ^ Batman #553 (April 1998)
  13. ^ Detective Comics #742 (March 2000)
  14. ^ Detective Comics #762 (November 2001)
  15. ^ Detective Comics #867-870 (September–December 2010)
  16. ^ Detective Comics (vol. 2) #32 (June 2014)
  17. ^ Detective Comics (vol. 2) #33 (July 2014)
  18. ^ Batman Eternal #1 (June 2014)
  19. ^ Detective Comics (vol. 2) #18-22 (May–September 2013)
  20. ^ Batman Eternal #52 (April 2015)
  21. ^ All-Star Batman #2
  22. ^ Detective Comics, Batman #6
  23. ^ Batwoman #6
  24. ^ Whom Gods Destroy #3 (1997). DC Comics.
  25. ^ JLA: The Nail #1 (August 1998). DC Comics.
  26. ^ Flashpoint: Batman - Knight of Vengeance #2 (July 2011). Marvel Comics.
  27. ^ Batman: Earth One (July 2012)
  28. ^ Batman: Earth One Volume Two (May 2015)
  29. ^ Justice League (vol. 2) #23.4 (November 2013) DC Comics.
  30. ^ Crime Syndicate #2. DC Comics.
  31. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l "Detective Harvey Bullock Voices (Batman)". Retrieved July 5, 2023. A green check mark indicates that a role has been confirmed using a screenshot (or collage of screenshots) of a title's list of voice actors and their respective characters found in its credits or other reliable sources of information.{{cite news}}: CS1 maint: postscript (link)
  32. ^ Weisman, Greg (August 5, 2019). "Search Ask Greg: Gargoyles: Station Eight". www.s8.org. Retrieved July 6, 2024.
  33. ^ "'Terriers' star officially lands key 'Gotham' role". TV Guide. 2014-02-12. Retrieved February 12, 2014.
  34. ^ "Everyone Has a Cobblepot". Gotham (TV series). Season 1. Episode 18. March 2, 2015. Fox.
  35. ^ "Damned If You Do...". Gotham (TV series). Season 2. Episode 1. September 21, 2015. Fox.
  36. ^ "Knock, Knock". Gotham (TV series). Season 2. Episode 1. September 29, 2015. Fox.
  37. ^ "Transference". Gotham (TV series). Season 2. Episode 22. May 23, 2016. Fox.
  38. ^ "The Executioner". Gotham (TV series). Season 3. Episode 9. November 14, 2016. Fox.
  39. ^ Spry, Jeff (July 19, 2024). "Holy Noirish Comeback, Batman! Bruce Timm and James Tucker Lift the Cowl Over 'Batman: Caped Crusader'". Animation Magazine. Retrieved July 22, 2024.
  40. ^ "Is Eckhardt supposed to be Harvey Bullock in Batman '89?". 17 April 2020.
  41. ^ "Batman '89 Artist Shares Image of Series' First New Character". Screen Rant. 13 June 2021.
  42. ^ Batman 2 script by Sam Hamm
  43. ^ Clow, Chris (November 2, 2013). "Game Review: 'Batman: Arkham Origins,' Plus Collector's Edition Extras". Archived from the original on November 2, 2013. Retrieved July 6, 2024.
  44. ^ Eisen, Andrew (October 4, 2013). "DC Characters and Objects - Scribblenauts Unmasked Guide". IGN. Retrieved July 6, 2024.
  45. ^ Injustice: Gods Among Us: Year Two DC Comics.
Preceded by GCPD Major Crimes Unit Shift Commander
2000–2001
Succeeded by