There is a direct line between Doctor John Watson and Sherlock Holmes' partnership and the superhero/sidekick relationship of Batman and Robin! This week on Geek History Lesson, we’re diving into how Holmes and Watson cemented the "modern sidekick" and explore whether other characters in both franchises may be better sidekicks than we first thought. Alfred Pennyworth? Merry Morstan?
We’re also celebrating the upcoming premiere of WATSON on CBS & Paramount Plus, debuting today October 13, 2025! Starring Morris Chestnut as Dr. John Watson, this new take on the iconic character is one you won’t want to miss. And here’s the best part: our very own Jason was a story editor on the show! So, we’re joined by someone who has actually written Dr. Watson themselves to discuss what makes this character the paramount sidekick. Grab your magnifying glass, call your favorite sidekick, and join us for this deep dive into the power of partnerships in storytelling!
Robins MEGA EPISODE (Nightwing, Tim Drake, Red Hood, Damian Wayne, Signal, History of Robins)
Today, we celebrate (for almost 6 hours!) our shared favorite character in all of comic book history: Robin! From the first Robin to the most recent we break down some of the most beloved Boy Wonders who have ever donned the pixie boots with some of our favorite legacy character-themed episodes from the archives for this MEGA EPISODE:
GHL 21: Nightwing – Explore the life time of the character who defined the Dynamic Duo, Dick Grayson
GHL 65: Robin (Tim Drake) – Study up on the smartest Robin to ever deduce both Bruce Wayne and Dick Grayson's alter-egos
GHL 155: Red Hood (Jason Todd) – Discover the tragic history of the first Robin who died and came back a villain
GHL 222: Robin (Damian Wayne) – Meet Bruce Wayne and Talia al Ghul's biological son, the scowly one
GHL 197: The Signal (Duke Thomas) – Follow the strange journey of the future Robin who never was
GHL 79: History of Robin - Live from NerdCon! – Jason & Ashley are joined live on stage by Omar Najam (writer Daredevil), and Mia Resella (creator Sam the Witch), for the ultimate Robin trivia game
Slide down the Batpole, jump onto the Redbird, and uncover in this epic celebration of all things Robin!
Batman Family MEGA EPISODE (Gotham City, Damian Wayne, Alfred Pennyworth)
We are vengeance, we are the night - we are bringing you a Batman Family MEGA EPISODE! Dive into the shadows of Gotham City as we explore the intricate dynamics and heroics of the Bat-Family, featuring Gotham City (#472), Damian Wayne (#222), and Alfred Pennyworth (#109). This extra-long collection combines previous episodes to highlight the pivotal roles each of these characters plays in the world of Batman and DC Comics. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to the Bat-Family, this MEGA EPISODE is the perfect companion for anyone gearing up to watch the latest DC movie or series on HBO Max! Discover why Gotham City is more than just a backdrop, how Damian Wayne brings a new edge to the Robin legacy, and the unwavering support Alfred Pennyworth provides as the backbone of the Bat-Family.
GHL 222 - Robin (Damian Wayne)
Did you know that Damian Wayne has been cloned multiple times by his own mother? Let us teach you everything you need to know about the fifth person to hold the mantle of Robin and Bruce Wayne's biological son!
GHL 79 - History of Robin - LIVE from NerdCon 2015!
It's the 75th Anniversary of Robin so when we were asked to attend NerdCon 2015 in Escondido, CA we created a trivia game show based around Robin's history! Forgive the sound quality, and enjoy special guests The 2 Broke Geeks!
GHL 65 - Robin (Tim Drake)
Did you know that Tim Drake figured out Batman's identity all on his own? Let us teach you everything you need to know about the third person to hold the mantle of Robin!
GHL 21 - Nightwing (Dick Grayson)
Dick Grayson has been called Robin, Nightwing, and now just Grayson. In honor of issue one of Grayson being released by DC Comics, we're taking a look into the history of the first boy wonder. How did he first meet Batman, and why did he finally quit the Batcave. It's time to learn all those Bat facts and more!